Answered By: Ed
Last Updated: Feb 26, 2025     Views: 91

Access PA Catalog:

The Access PA Catalog is the statewide catalog comprising all the lendable materials made available by participating Pennsylvania libraries.  The collection contains records from public, academic, school, and special libraries, and represents over 40 million objects.  

For Patrons:  This catalog is intended for public reference only--to request an item, patrons must contact their local library.

For Library Staff:  This catalog can be used to request interlibrary loan materials.  For access and support, please contact POWER Library Support.

 

  • Searching the Access PA Catalog - https://powerlibrary.org/catalog:
    • To search the catalog enter a title, author, or keyword into the search box and click Go! 
    • On the results page, you can use the Search Filters on the right-side of the screen to limit the results by subject, format, date, and more.
    • Once you locate the material you are looking for, click on the cover for more details. 
      • If there are several items that match your search they likely represent differences in the way the item was cataloged. 
      • For the best results, click on the cover that shows the greatest number of copies (the number of copies can be found next to the item’s format listing, in parentheses).
    • When you are looking at the item’s record, scroll down to see the closest library location which has a copy. 
      • You can click on a library’s name to find out their address and contact information.
      • If you are unsure of your local library, use the Find a PA Library feature located on the POWER Library Books, Movies, and More page (https://powerlibrary.org/catalog), where you can search for PA libraries by zip code.
    • To share an item record, please use the permalink option, located in the left-side menu of each record.
    • As a reminder, patrons cannot place holds through the Access PA catalog.  If your local library owns a copy of the material, you will need to place a hold on it through their online catalog.  If they do not have a copy, you will need to request that item through Interlibrary Loan at your local library.

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This project is made possible in part by Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services and through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Library Access funds administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Office of Commonwealth Libraries. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this video do not necessarily represent those of the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services or the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

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