The Edison Library is a vast repository of knowledge, housing over 100,000 books, journals, and other resources. Navigating such a large collection can be daunting, but with the right tools and strategies, finding the books you need can be easy and efficient. In this article, we will explore the various ways to navigate the Edison Library, including the online catalog, subject headings, and call numbers.
Understanding the Online Catalog
The online catalog is the primary tool for searching the Edison Library’s collection. It is a comprehensive database that contains information about every book, journal, and other resource in the library. The catalog can be searched by keyword, author, title, or subject, making it easy to find specific books or browse through related topics. Keyword searching is a powerful feature that allows users to search for books using specific words or phrases. For example, a search for “artificial intelligence” would return a list of books related to that topic.
Using Subject Headings
Subject headings are a way to categorize books by topic, making it easy to find related materials. The Edison Library uses the Library of Congress Classification system, which organizes books into broad categories such as technology, philosophy, and history. Each category is further divided into more specific topics, allowing users to drill down to the exact subject they are interested in. For instance, the subject heading “TK7800-8360” refers to electrical engineering, which includes books on topics such as circuit analysis and electronic devices.
| Subject Heading | Description |
|---|---|
| QA75-76.95 | Computer science |
| T58-65 | Industrial engineering |
| TS155-194 | Manufacturing engineering |
Navigating the Library’s Stacks
Once you have identified the books you want to find, it’s time to navigate the library’s stacks. The Edison Library uses a call number system to organize its books, with each book assigned a unique call number based on its subject heading. Call numbers are usually displayed on the spine of the book and can be used to locate the book on the shelf. The library’s stacks are organized by call number, with books on similar topics shelved together.
Using the Library’s Maps and Guides
The Edison Library provides maps and guides to help users navigate the stacks and find specific books. The library’s website includes a floor plan and a guide to the call number system, which can be used to plan your search before you even arrive at the library. Additionally, the library’s staff are always happy to help users find books and answer any questions they may have. Library staff can provide expert guidance on using the library’s resources and can help users develop effective search strategies.
- Visit the library's website to access the online catalog and plan your search
- Use the library's maps and guides to navigate the stacks and find specific books
- Ask library staff for help if you need assistance finding books or using the library's resources
Additional Tips and Strategies
In addition to using the online catalog, subject headings, and call numbers, there are several other tips and strategies that can help you navigate the Edison Library and find the books you need. One effective strategy is to browse the shelves in areas related to your topic, as you may stumble upon relevant books that you hadn’t considered before. Another strategy is to check the library’s new book shelf, which features recently acquired books on a variety of topics.
How do I search for books in the Edison Library’s online catalog?
+To search for books in the Edison Library’s online catalog, simply visit the library’s website and click on the “catalog” tab. From there, you can search by keyword, author, title, or subject using the search bar at the top of the page.
What is the Library of Congress Classification system?
+The Library of Congress Classification system is a system used to categorize books by topic. It organizes books into broad categories such as technology, philosophy, and history, and further divides each category into more specific topics.
How do I find books on the shelf in the Edison Library?
+To find books on the shelf in the Edison Library, simply look for the call number on the spine of the book. The call number will correspond to a specific location on the shelf, and books on similar topics will be shelved together.
