Finally!

OneSearch is here. Now when you go to the GC library homepage, your first search will use OneSearch!

Here are answers to a few Frequently Asked Questions about OneSearch, a new tool that is featured on the primary search box of the GC library website:

1. What is OneSearch? It’s a powerful search and discovery tool that lets you simultaneously search across multiple platforms. OneSearch contains much more than any single library database (as well as the CUNY catalog for print materials), so it’s a great place to start your research.
2. What is included in OneSearch? OneSearch includes information about print books from all CUNY libraries, electronic texts from Graduate Center ebook collections, many (but not all) journal, magazine and newspaper articles from the Graduate Center Library’s A-Z list of databases, dissertations from CUNY and other universities, and a new GC Reserves area.
3. Can I request books using OneSearch? Yes! You can request books from other CUNY libraries inside OneSearch. You can request items from other CUNY campuses (CLICS) in the “Request” tab, or from libraries beyond CUNY (interlibrary loan) in the “More Options” tab.
   
4. Can I access my library account on OneSearch? Yes! Of course. This is a library catalog after all. Once you enter OneSearch, click “Sign in.” There is a “My Account” area as well where you can manage books you have checked out, CLICs requests, and other account details.
   Also! Please note that you will see even more search results when you have signed into your account in OneSearch (because some of our databases are index-only, or contain just the metadata about articles and other materials and not the full text, you need to sign in to access this information just as you would when you visit our A-Z list of databases).
5. How do I get to the classic catalog? Will it be discontinued? A link to the classic catalog will remain on the main library homepage under the main Catalogs tab. If you prefer the classic interface, you can continue using it as long as you like!
   
   
6. How do I get to WorldCat from OneSearch to find books and other materials beyond CUNY libraries? WorldCat holdings are not part of OneSearch. However, everything about how you currently use WorldCat will stay the same, and a link still appears on the front page of the GC Library homepage. OneSearch, therefore, is not a tool for searching outside of CUNY for interlibrary loan, but it is a great tool for locating books within CUNY, and searching across many Graduate Center electronic resources at once.

Still feeling unsure about OneSearch?

You have options! Come to the reference desk and you’ll receive a detailed overview of OneSearch. If you prefer to learn in a classroom setting, there will be a OneSearch Workshop Series at the beginning of the semester to get better acquainted with the tool. See our workshops calendar to sign up! And if you prefer a one-on-one session with a librarian, complete an appointment request form.

Want more?
Try the CUNY Office of Library Services FAQs which gives even more detail on what to expect in OneSearch.