Mersey Libraries

How to search MerseyLibraries.org service:

• The MerseyLibraries.org service will automatically cross-search all of the holdings of all libraries with one search. Clicking the boxes on the homepage will enable users to select or de-select any number of individual library resources.

Search Options:

• Title Search: This looks for the title only. You must know the first words in the title.
  • HINT: If you don't know the first word, try a General Keyword search.
• General Keyword Search: This looks for words in the title, author, publisher, or subject part of the record.
  • HINT: This is a good search to try if you only have a general idea of what you want.
• Author Search: This looks for the name of the person who has created the work.
  • HINT: Different libraries have different ways of cataloguing author names. If you don't get the results you expect from using a longer form of a name (for example, "Dickens, Charles"), then try the same search with just the first initial (for example, "Dickens, C"). Alternatively, try a General Keyword Search
• Subject Search: This looks for books about people or organizations as well as subject headings which describe what the book is about.
• Publisher Search: This looks for the name of the publisher of a book.

Advanced Search and Browse:

• The Advanced Search option will let you combine different search terms, which may help you narrow your search.

Browsing Indexes

• The Browse option will allow you to browse alphabetical lists of authors, titles, subjects or publishers. Select a field from the drop-down menu, and enter a term to browse the relevant index, in alphabetical order, around your term.

Subject Resolver

• The Subject Resolver will help you to identify common subjects that occur in the records. Type a single word or simple phrase, such as 'Missionaries' or 'World War Two', and start searching. A list of subjects related to your search term will be displayed in descending order of relevance (the most likely matching subject will be given 100% relevance).

Search Results:

• The results will be returned by Library by order of date.
  • HINT: Because of differing library cataloguing practices, you may not get the results you initially expect. If this is the case, try a General Keyword Search.
• By clicking on a "Full Record", you will get the entire bibliographic citation as provided by the relevant library.
  • HINT: From a "Full Record" you will be able to browse the Author, Title, and Subjects which may relate to your search. You will also be able to link to relevant Google and Amazon web pages which may include relevant information.
• You will need to visit a library in person to access the book. MerseyLibraries.org does not currently provide interlibrary loan facilities. Registered readers at any of the LT:LLP members libraries have access rights to other libraries within the partnership.
  • HINT: To gain access you must show your ID card to library staff.
  • HINT: Please contact the individual libraries for up-to-date opening times. For details see the Libraries Together: Liverpool Learning Partnership webpage.