Library Guides: AGRI 340: Communicating Agricultural Issues: Finding Books

About Books

Books and other publications provide a survey of general information in a subject or summarize information on a specific topic. Books available in the WIU Libraries can be located using WestCat, the Libraries’ online catalog. Books in other Illinois libraries can be located and requested using I-Share, the online catalog for Illinois academic libraries. If an item is not available in the WIU or Libraries another Illinois academic library, it can be borrowed from another library through Interlibrary Loan.

WestCat This link opens in a new window
WestCat provides information about the books, government publications, recordings, and other library materials available in the WIU Libraries. Some of the materials are available on the shelves, while others are available online.
I-Share This link opens in a new window
I-Share provides information about library materials at over 80 academic and research libraries located throughout Illinois. All WIU Students, Faculty and Staff can set up an account to borrow materials available in other I-Share libraries. When an item in the I-Share catalog is found, users can request that it be sent to WIU or any other I-Share library at no charge..

WIU Libraries' Interlibrary Loan Information
If the Libraries do not have the materials needed for your research, they can be requested from other libraries, generally at no charge, although fees may be charged in special circumstances. Forms to request books, articles and other materials through Interlibrary Loan are available online. Materials found in I-Share may be requested directly (instructions are available on this page). The length of time needed for an item to be delivered may vary. Users should contact Interlibrary Loan for complete details. The telephone number is 309-298-2705.

WorldCat This link opens in a new window
WorldCat can be used to locate books, maps and other resources owned by libraries throughout the World. If WIU does not own the item, it can be requested through Interlibrary Loan.

National Agriculture Library Catalog
Access to digital publications of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other organizations is available through the NAL Catalog.