The word "library catalogue" refers to a comprehensive list of all the books and other materials present in a library. The spelling of this word can be broken down phonetically as /ˈlaɪbrəri ˈkætəlɔːg/. The stress falls on the first syllable of both "library" and "catalogue". The word "catalogue" is spelled with a "ue" ending in British English, while it is spelled "catalog" without the "ue" in American English. Regardless of the regional spelling, the meaning of the word remains the same.
A library catalogue refers to a comprehensive and organized inventory of materials contained within a library's collection. It serves as a systematic record of all the books, periodicals, multimedia resources, and other materials available within a library. The primary purpose of a library catalogue is to aid users in efficiently locating specific resources. This is accomplished by cataloging items using standardized classification systems, such as the Dewey Decimal Classification or Library of Congress Classification, and by providing the necessary bibliographic details for each item.
A library catalogue typically includes vital information about each item, including its author, title, publication date, edition, subject headings, and any relevant notes. In addition to these basic details, modern library catalogues often encompass advanced search capabilities, enabling users to search by keyword, author, title, subject, or other criteria. Some library catalogues are now available in an online format, allowing users to access them remotely and search for items from anywhere with an internet connection.
Overall, a library catalogue acts as an essential tool for library users to explore the vast collection of resources housed within a library. It facilitates efficient access to materials, supports research endeavors, and promotes a more seamless and user-friendly library experience.
The word "library catalogue" is a combination of two words with distinct etymologies: "library" and "catalogue".
The word "library" originates from the Latin word "liber", meaning "book". It was later adapted into Old French as "librairie" and then into Middle English as "librarie". The term originally referred to a place where books were kept or a collection of books.
On the other hand, the word "catalogue" comes from the Greek word "katalogos", which means "a list or register". It was later incorporated into Latin as "catalogus" and then adopted into Middle English as "catalog".
In the context of a library, a "catalogue" refers to a comprehensive list of books or items available in the library's collection. When combined, the term "library catalogue" refers to a compiled list of books available within a library.