Want to get the best out of your library and improve your information skills? Browse the menu on the left or check out our top tips below
Top tips for finding the best books
The tips below cover how to look for new books, searching the website and catalogue effectively and an introduction to the database Novelist that takes the guesswork out of trying a new author.
1. Do you know that there are special display stands and shelves in the library for new books, books just been returned to the library, and books recommended by library staff? Always check those shelves for the latest reads.
2. What's Hot books cannot be reserved, so if you are having a last minute rush you can grab one of those for $5 and be guaranteed of a great read. For those with more time up their sleeves than money the library also has reservable copies of all the What's Hot books.
3. The Read and relax section of our website has regularly updated lists of the newest items that have been purchased. You can browse the latest fiction, history, travel and biography titles as well as the latest CDs, DVDs and magazines. Plus - check out Librarians' choice for reviews.
4.
Many new books have additional information available on the catalogue under the link Other Resources to enable you to decide if a book appeals to you. Information can include an extract from the book, reviews of the book, or the table of contents. Click on the Other Resources link then click on Syndetics to see what is available. For example: view the additional information about Margaret Atwood's latest book.
5.
Want to read the latest book by Dick Francis but not sure what it is called? Do a catalogue search under the author's name then click on system sorted, change to reverse year then click on sort. This will list the books in order of when they are published. What is the title of his latest book? (answer at the bottom of the page)
6.
Activate your Reading History in My Info. This will keep track of the items you take out. If you read something you enjoy, log into your reading history then search to see what else the author has written which you might also enjoy.
7.
Try out the Novelist database. Type in the name of your favourite author and be given suggestions of other authors with similar writing styles. More about NoveList.
8.
If we don't have what you are looking for, why not make a suggestion for purchase? Tell us the title and author of the book and we will look into purchasing it for the library. Suggest a purchase online form.
9.
If you have requested a book and it's not going to arrive in time for your holiday, in My Info you can freeze your request so that the book arrives once you return.
10.
In a rush? Come into the library and grab a Take 5 bundle of books. These are books staff have pre-selected which all have a similar theme or genre.
Answer: Under orders is Dick Francis' latest book.
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