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History 300: A Guide to Research: Requesting Items Outside the OWHL

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OWHL and other PA collections = Phillips Academy

NOBLE = Network of 25 libraries north of Boston, including the OWHL

ComCat = Statewide library network

WorldCat = Global catalog of tens of thousands of institutions' collections

Tips & Tricks for NOBLE, ComCat, & WorldCat

**Give yourself enough time**

NOBLE books: 3-5 business days
ComCat books: 4-7 business days
WorldCat books: up to several weeks
Articles: 1-3 weeks (maybe sooner)

 

  • Always start with what is at PA when searching for your topic.
  • If you come up empty, search the NOBLE network and then ComCat.
  • Use WorldCat if you have a specific title in mind you need
  • Place holds on more than one relevant title. Although a book may sound perfect, you cannot accurately judge a book by its title.
  • Be sure the books you request are age appropriate—a juvenile/children’s book will not help you with your paper.
  • ComCat, look for items with multiple copies available and be sure it is not an e-book.
    • Leave the “Note” field blank
  • When searching WorldCat, look at the list of libraries who own the book you're after. You're more likely to receive it if it (and more quickly) if it is in MA or New England states.

**What you need to make a request**

NOBLE books: Your ID number (back of your ID card) and your 4-digit PIN
ComCat books: Your ID number (back of your ID card) and your last name
WorldCat books & articles: Email Ms. Goss (egoss@andover.edu) with WorldCat link and/or complete citation.

Stop by the Library Welcome Desk or send an email to owhlibrary@andover.edu if you have any questions or get stuck.