There are too many search results. How do I find what I'm looking for?
Here are some tips for narrowing your search results.
Basic search tips
You can combine multiple keywords in a single search. Each record in the search results will contain all of those keywords.
You can search for an exact phrase by putting that phrase within quotation marks.
Filtering search results
You can filter your search results with the "Refine by" column to the left of those results. For example, if you have searched for sloths, and only want print books about sloths, you should look for the "Format" options and check the box for "BOOKS." Many other search filters are available under the "Refine by" column, and you can apply multiple search filters at once.
This search for sloths has been limited to print books.
Boolean operators
You can use Boolean operators (AND, NOT, OR) for more complex searches. The Boolean operators must be written in capital letters.
- If you type toad AND frog, your search will only return records that include both the words "toad" and "frog." (Note that the search toad frog would work the same way. The "AND" operator is implied if you combine multiple keywords without an operator.)
- If you type toad OR frog, your search will return records that include either the word "toad" or the word "frog." Some records will include both words, but others will include only one or the other.
- If you type toad NOT frog, your search will return records that include the word "toad" but do not also include the word "frog."
WARNING: if you type your entire search string in capital letters, you may be using a Boolean operator without realizing it. For example, a search for BUD NOT BUDDY in capital letters will skip any results that contain the word "Buddy." Thus, you would not find the Christopher Paul Curtis book with the title Bud Not Buddy. (A search for Bud Not Buddy or bud not buddy would be successful if you want to find that specific book.)
What does item status mean?
Most physical items are displayed with a status. These are some statuses you will commonly see.
- AVAILABLE: The item is available to be requested
- 1 HOLD: The item has been requested by someone; it is no longer available through LINKin.
- DUE XX-XX-XX: The item is checked out, and due to be returned on the date that is displayed. It cannot be requested.
- IN TRANSIT: The item is en route to a LINKin library.
- COPY/COPIES ORDERED: This item has been ordered and is not yet available. Most material is not available through LINKin until it is 6 months old.
- UNAVAILABLE: The item is not available.
- LOCAL USE ONLY: The item is not available through LINKin.
- COPY/COPIES IN PROCESS: This item is not yet available. Most material is not available through LINKin until it is 6 months old.
- MISSING: The item is not available.
Placing holds
What are holds?
A LINKin hold is a way to have a library item sent to your library for pickup.
The library that owns the item will send the item to your requested pickup location. Once the item arrives at your library, your library will notify you that your item is available. This can take up to a week. There are no waiting lists in LINKin
How do I place an item on hold?
Basic holds
At least one copy must be AVAILABLE to request a hold. Press the "Request it" button next to a title to put it on hold.
Select your library from the dropdown list and press Submit
Enter your name, library card number, and, if applicable, choose a pickup location. Press Submit.
Volume holds
Follow the same process as above and then select the first volume you would like. If you want more than one volume you must request each one separately.
When will my item be available for pickup?
You will be notified by your library when your item is ready for pickup.
Some items may be missing, lost, damaged, or otherwise unavailable and may take longer to fill.