You can search Library catalogues from all over the world to identify material. If you can't get to the holding Library, then you can always request material via our Inter Library Loan| service.
See our page on using other libraries| for links to other University & National Libraries and useful links
The two databases below allow you to search for material from several different Libraries.
COPAC|
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Content: Library catalogues of major UK research libraries
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Coverage: Cross search the catalogues of over 20 large research libraries, including the British Library, LSE, British Library, UCL, Kings, Wellcome Library etc
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Access: Freely available
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Features
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Copac can be searched directly from Endnote
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Book availability for most Libraries- i.e. you can see if something is listed as being available or on loan
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Better interface than the British Library's own catalogue
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Can cross search Library catalogues rather than searching each individually
Worldcat|
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Content: worldwide Library catalogues from OCLC contributors
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Coverage: If it's stocked by an OCLC member library, then you will see it-be prepared for frustration on locating obscure items though
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Access: Library Catalogue or above link
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Date range: literally 1066 and All that follows
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Updates: Daily
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Features
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Results can be imported into Endnote
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Searches can be saved to rerun at a later date (you must register with OCLC to do this)
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Cross searching available with the other OCLC FirstSearch databases to which LSE subscribes
InforM25|
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Content: Library catalogues of university and museum libraries in and around London
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Coverage: Cross search the catalogues of nearby university and museum libraries
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Access: Freely available
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Features:
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Can limit search to north, inner or south London or choose specific library catalogues.
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Most included libraries can be accessed under the SCONUL scheme.
Using other libraries
If you are an LSE student or staff member you will be able to use most other libraries of the University of London. There may also be other specialist libraries and collections you might be able to visit, such as the Library of the Wellcome Institute| for medical and health topics.
To find out more about using other libraries look at the Library's web pages on other libraries|, or ask at the Library Help Desk.
Sconul Access Scheme|
This scheme allows access to most UK university libraries. Apply at the Library Help Desk on the first floor of the Library
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Staff and research students will receive a card which will allow limited borrowing from most member libraries (this also applies to part time students)
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Taught course students will receive a card which will allow you reference only access to member libraries
Remember that you will only have access to printed materials and that access to teaching collections may be restricted. If in doubt check with the website of your intended library before your visit. You will not have access to any online resources such as electronic journals.
Senate House Library|
Senate House Library is the Library for the University of London, so if you are a current LSE student or staff member you can join the Library with your LSE card. You can borrow materials and use their electronic resources.
The British Library|
Anyone can register for a Reader Pass at the British Library. Access is reference only and many of the items are held off-site. These items needs to be ordered to the reading rooms and delivery times vary between 70 minutes and 48+hours. More information on joining the British Library can be found here http://www.bl.uk/reshelp/inrrooms/stp/register/stpregister.html|