What Is a Library Catalogue?
A library catalogue is a comprehensive, organized list of a library’s contents: It refers to maps, periodical archives, artwork, computer files, microfilm, and, of course, books. Library catalogues are limited to a particular library or a single group of libraries, but nearly all library catalogues today share the same basic search features and organization. After the advent of online catalogues in the ’70s, physical card catalogues became nearly obsolete, but some libraries retain their card catalogues for decorative or commemorative purposes.
