FINDING BOOKS  

Using Web-Z and the KYVL

Web-Z is the name given to the search engine used by the KYVL (Kentucky Virtual Library) to search for books held in all of the libraries associated with the KYVL.

To search the KYVL, go to the HCC library’s web page and activate the icon, "KY Virtual Library."  (You can also arrive at the same destination by activating the link provided above.)  A variety of databases, catalogs, government information, and Kentucky information is provided by the KYVL; however, the most useful link for writing English papers is titled, "Catalogs and Databases.”  This web page offers a list of databases that can be searched to find full-text articles from magazines, journals, encyclopedias, and newspapers.  It can also be used to access the Web-Z (shown below.)

The Web-Z interface allows you to search through all of the university libraries listed as well as many more -- even if their individual online catalogs are different.  Every search will use the KYVL commands, so you won't have to modify your search to learn about the books of the various libraries.  For best results, use KYVL's five basic search types: Title (exact), Author (exact), Keywords, Advanced, and Browse.

For Title searches, type in the exact title sought omitting only the initial prepositions such as “the,”  “a,” or “an.”

For author searches, type in the author’s name in the order last name then first name.  Do not use punctuation.

Keyword searches allow you to combine terms using “and,” “or,” “not.”

Once a list of books is retrieved, you may look at the full record of any book by moving the cursor to the book’s title and clicking the left button on the mouse.  The record will display, including subject headings.  After finding your desired book(s), fill out an Interlibrary Loan Request form and continue navigating through the system by using the buttons shown.

When finished, move the cursor to the “Home” button and click on it.  This disconnects you from the KYVL.

If you need additional assistance and would like to speak with a representative of KYVL, you may call 1-877-588-5288 or call the Hartfield Library Reference Desk at (270) 831-9767.