Catalogues register the book and journal holdings of one or several libraries. They make it possible to research locations and shelf marks in order to gain access to specific media. Catalogues usually do not register articles in journals and contributions in collections.

How do I research articles in sports science journals?
Where is a specific title located in Münster?
Here you’ll find assistance related to different search options.

Databases usually record literature belonging to a specific subject. It is possible here to search thematically for articles in e-journals or contributions in collective works. The thematic search is followed (often automatically) by a catalogue search for the locations of the found books and journals.

Search portals make it possible to research in catalogues and databases simultaneously. Usually, there is an automatic check for availability of the found documents.