What is WorldCat?
In an expanding universe of information alternatives, why stand alone? WorldCat is a global network of library content and services that uses the Web to let your institution be more connected, more open and more productive. Consider the benefits of cooperation.
Global in geography, scope and content
The Web is truly worldwide. Users and organizations have become accustomed to services that remove barriers to global participation. WorldCat is the only truly worldwide platform for library cooperation, already incorporating materials from thousands of libraries in hundreds of countries in a wide variety of formats. Every local library has something to share with users around the world. That level of participation becomes not just possible, but effective and compelling with WorldCat.
Learn more about WorldCat’s global catalog ››
Engage users on the Web
The Web is now the first choice for information seekers worldwide. To be successful, libraries must embed their services as fully as possible into the Web experience of their users. WorldCat provides the only Web-scale platform currently available that connects global discovery to local delivery. In addition, the WorldCat.org user interface adds personal and social tools to the library experience, allowing participating users and libraries to benefit from shared reviews, suggestions, lists, tags and Web services.
Learn more about "Web scale" discovery through WorldCat ››
Streamline processes when libraries work together
Libraries are built around the value of shared community resources. Similarly, the greater library community benefits when we share as many tasks as possible across a connected infrastructure platform. Updates flow out to participants without pause. WorldCat simplifies multistage tasks, reducing the need for redundant, expensive processes. And libraries can better manage their entire workflow, saving money and better serving their constituencies.
Learn more about OCLC services ››
Connect libraries, users and partners as fully as possible
Providing a way for libraries to share data among themselves is important, but is no longer enough. WorldCat brings industry partners-publishers, vendors, search engines and others-into the flow. The more transparent these connections become, the more libraries will benefit from efficiency and cost savings. Users, too, benefit when library services connect more intuitively and universally. Partipation in a linked system of library management, service, discovery and delivery will encourage even more use and appreciation of libraries and what they offer.
Library-focused community, technology and research
Libraries occupy a unique space in the information and education spheres. Library services are often interwoven with those of larger institutions or communities of practice, while simultaneously having very specific needs. WorldCat provides a way for libraries worldwide to be part of a community that exists solely for their long-term benefit. Participation in OCLC provides access to professional opportunities through its membership and industry-wide research available nowhere else.
Learn more about becoming an OCLC member institution ››
Ready to make your library a WorldCat library?
- Review how your library contributes to WorldCat
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For enquiries in UK and Ireland, please contact OCLC:
8th Floor, West Wing
54 Hagley Road
Birmingham
B16 8PE
United Kingdom
T +44 (0) 121 456 4656
F +44 (0) 121 456 4680
E uk@oclc.org
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New WorldCat libraries
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WorldCat Watch
Number of records
258,039,000
Number of holdings
1,807,364,668
Numbers are updated weekly and only reflect records contributed by libraries. Article-level metadata is not included.
Facts and statistics
Social links and blogs
See “WorldCat” results from these sites:
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