If you’re a student, researcher, or lifelong learner at the University of Oxford, chances are you’ve heard of OxLibCat – or maybe you’ve stumbled across it while trying to access an academic article or database. But what exactly is OxLibCat, and how can it help you make the most of Oxford’s incredible library resources?
In this article, we’ll break everything down in simple, everyday language so that anyone – from freshers to PhD students – can confidently use OxLibCat to access the vast digital world of Oxford’s libraries.
What is OxLibCat?
OxLibCat, short for Oxford Libraries Information Platform Catalogue, is essentially the gateway to Oxford University’s electronic library resources. Think of it as a giant search engine – but instead of crawling the entire web, it gives you access to thousands of academic databases, e-journals, e-books, and reference tools curated by Oxford University.
It’s part of the Bodleian Libraries’ digital services, designed to help students and researchers find the right academic materials – fast and efficiently.
“When I first started at Oxford, I was completely overwhelmed by how many resources there were. I didn’t even know where to begin. But once I figured out how to use OxLibCat, it felt like someone handed me a map to a massive treasure chest of knowledge.”
— Maya, DPhil student in History
Why is OxLibCat Important?
Oxford’s library system is one of the largest and most prestigious in the world. With over 13 million printed items, and a rapidly growing collection of digital content, it can be easy to get lost in the maze.
That’s where OxLibCat comes in. It helps you:
- Search and access digital resources easily
- Discover subject-specific databases and reference tools
- Save time by going directly to verified academic sources
- Find links to full-text journal articles and e-books
- Access off-campus using your Single Sign-On (SSO) credentials
Whether you’re writing a research paper, looking up a reference, or diving deep into a thesis, OxLibCat acts as your reliable research assistant.
Features of OxLibCat
Let’s explore the main features that make OxLibCat such a powerful tool:
1. Subject Browsing
One of the best features is the ability to browse by subject. Whether you’re studying medicine, philosophy, economics, or computer science, OxLibCat helps you discover the most relevant databases and journals for your field.
Tip: If you don’t know the exact name of a database, start with subject browsing. It narrows down your options and introduces you to resources you didn’t even know existed.
2. Alphabetical Listing of Databases
If you know the name of a database – like JSTOR, Scopus, or PubMed – you can search for it directly in the alphabetical list. It’s fast and efficient.
3. Cross-searching Multiple Databases
Many people don’t know this, but some databases listed on OxLibCat allow you to cross-search multiple sources at once. This means you can save time by querying a topic across several databases in one go.
4. Access to E-Journals and E-Books
Through OxLibCat, users can access full-text e-journals, e-books, and reference works. You’ll often be redirected to publisher sites, but as long as you’re logged in with your Oxford SSO, you’ll get full access.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use OxLibCat
If you’re new to Oxford or just never had the chance to explore OxLibCat, here’s a simple guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Visit the Website
Go to:
https://www.infopool.org.uk/oxlibcat/
This is the official portal. Bookmark it – you’ll be using it often.
Step 2: Choose Your Search Method
You’ll see multiple ways to explore resources:
- By Subject
- By Title (A–Z)
- By Type (e.g., databases, dictionaries, encyclopedias)
Choose the one that suits your needs.
Step 3: Log in with Oxford SSO (If Needed)
To access full content, especially off-campus, log in using your Oxford Single Sign-On (SSO). This authenticates you as a university member.
Step 4: Explore and Access
Click on the database or resource you need. You’ll be directed to the resource’s site or access page.
OxLibCat vs. SOLO vs. Bodleian Libraries – What’s the Difference?
Oxford has several library tools, and it’s easy to confuse them. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Tool | What it Does |
|---|---|
| SOLO (Search Oxford Libraries Online) | Main catalogue for physical books, e-books, and printed materials |
| OxLibCat | Focused on electronic resources like databases, online journals, and reference tools |
| Bodleian Libraries Site | Main website for all Oxford libraries – includes both SOLO and OxLibCat access |
Remember: Use SOLO for finding books. Use OxLibCat when you need access to online academic databases and tools.
Accessing OxLibCat Off-Campus
One of the most powerful features of OxLibCat is that it can be accessed from anywhere in the world – not just inside the university network.
Here’s how:
- Log in using your Oxford SSO
- For some databases, use the Oxford VPN or eduroam
- If prompted, look for options like “Log in via institution” and choose University of Oxford
Real-World Scenarios: How People Use OxLibCat
Let’s walk through a few scenarios to see how OxLibCat makes academic life easier:
Scenario 1: Essay Crisis at Midnight
Anna, a second-year English Literature student, is writing her term paper. It’s 11:45 PM, and she needs access to articles on Shakespeare and gender theory.
- She logs into OxLibCat
- Browses under English Literature
- Finds access to MLA International Bibliography
- Finds several peer-reviewed articles, downloads PDFs, and submits the essay just in time.
Scenario 2: Science Researcher Needs Clinical Data
Dr. Patel, a postdoctoral researcher in medicine, needs access to clinical trials data and pharmaceutical journals.
- Uses OxLibCat to find Embase and Medline
- Cross-searches drug trial studies
- Saves hours of time by narrowing search results efficiently
Tools You Can Access Through OxLibCat
Here’s a sample of tools and databases you can explore:
- JSTOR
- Scopus
- Web of Science
- PubMed
- LexisNexis
- Oxford Dictionary of National Biography
- ARTstor
- Project MUSE
- OECD iLibrary
Each tool offers a different focus – whether it’s full-text journal access, data sets, statistics, or historical documents.
Transitioning to the New Platform
As of recent years, Oxford has been integrating OxLibCat’s functionality into SOLO and other services for a more seamless user experience.
However, OxLibCat remains a valuable standalone portal, especially for those who prefer subject-based browsing or want quick access to specific academic databases.
Keep an eye out for updates from the Bodleian Libraries as they continue to improve the digital research experience.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Use OxLibCat
Whether you’re just starting your academic journey at Oxford or you’ve been here for years, OxLibCat is a tool that can save you time, enhance your research, and open up access to world-class academic content.
In a world overloaded with information, having a curated, easy-to-navigate platform like OxLibCat makes all the difference. So next time you’re stuck or need credible sources for your paper, skip the random Google searches – and head straight to OxLibCat.
