What is WorldCat?
WorldCat is the world’s most comprehensive library catalog and represents the collections of thousands of libraries worldwide.
Why Use WorldCat?
Searching the GW & Consortium Catalog will not show you everything published. Search in WorldCat to be sure that you've done a comprehensive search.
Does WorldCat cover foreign language materials?
Yes. You can even search using non-Roman Script. English language materials are only about half of WorldCat.
Can I borrow materials found on WorldCat?
Yes. You can do an Interlibrary Loan (ILL) request in the record through the “request through ILL” link.
Just note that not all materials can be shared. If there is an issue, GW Libraries' Interlibrary Loan department will notify you.
Physical ILL materials take 5 – 14 days to arrive, and the borrowing period depends on the library sending it. Usually you may keep it for 2 – 6 weeks.
If you only need a section of a book, or a single journal article, it's often possible to request a scan or electronic copy from ILL. This is generally much faster, often a matter of a couple days.
