Online Library Catalogue and Reference Collection

The contents of Argyll and Bute’s libraries can now be perused from the comfort of your own home with our new online catalogue. This new system gives you access to information about all our main libraries as well as a facility that allows you to search our catalogue, reserve items and renew items you have on loan.

If you are not a member of one of our libraries you can join online. Click on the link to the catalogue below, then click on the 'Join Online' button and fill in the form. You will be able to reserve books immediately and will have full access to all the library services when you collect your new library card.

If you are a member of the library already, you will need a Personal Identification Number to log on and access your borrower record. Please contact your local branch and you will be allocated a PIN.

Online Library Catalogue
*** NB If you live on an island with no branch or mobile library, please select Library Headquarters as your branch when you join online. ***

The catalogue can be searched by author, title or word(s) from title, and sorted by various combinations of author, title and publication date. After the search of the catalogue has been completed you will see a page with this information:

• Library name - the library that currently has the item.
  
• Collection code - for example, adult fiction general, junior non-fiction etc.
  
• Status - is the item available or on loan?

Advanced Searches are also available and allow you to find items using ISBN/ISSN and class number if you know them.
Please note that searching under 'subject' will not result in many hits at present, but this option will be enhanced as new items are added to stock.

If you find an item that you would like to reserve, you can select it and click the 'Place Reservation' button.

***NEW!*** FREE ACCESS TO ONLINE REFERENCE COLLECTIONS

If you are an Argyll and Bute Library member, click on any of the links below for free access to a substantial reference library. You will need the number printed below the barcode on your Library Membership card. If you do not have a membership card, you can ask for one at your local Argyll and Bute Council library. You can also join on line through the links above.

KNOW UK gives you access to large collection of standard reference books including "Who's Who" and Hutcheson's Encyclopaedia.

BRITANNICA ONLINE allows you access to this prestigious reference work.

Britannica Junior (For ages 5 - 11)

Britannica Student (For ages 12 - 18)

Encylopaedia Britannica (For ages 18+)

CANS is a comprehensive legal guide to the laws of Scotland, England and Wales.