Search the Catalog

BUILDING QUERIES
The catalog provides patrons with multiple options for searching the catalog. There are 3 major methods of building search queries:

1. The Simple Search:
   The default setting is to the "Simple Search" tab which enables one field to be searched with the ability to set limits by selecting a phrase in the "Find Results In" field.
2. The Builder Search:
   The "Builder Search" tab enables the patron to search three fields simultaneously with the ability to set limits in the "Search In" fields.
3. Course Reserve:
   Patrons may view items that are on course reserve by: instructor, department, course, and section (semester and year).

In addition, patrons can fix search limits by utilizing the "Limits" feature by clicking the "Limits" icon to the right of the "Simple Search" and "Builder Search" pages. By using this feature, patrons do not have to reset limits between each search and can remove them with the "erase limits icon" that appears after a patron sets limits.

Boolean Terms and Logic :

In addition, the catalog allows patrons to broaden or narrow their searches and search terms with the use of Boolean Terms and Logic. The "Simple Search" page has a basic list of Boolean terms and Logic features at the bottom half of the page.

For more information on how to better utilize Boolean Terms and Logic, go to SUNY Albany's "Boolean Searching on the Internet: A Primer in Boolean Logic" or the APA's "Search Tips: A Primer on Boolean Logic."