Answered By: Timothy Grasso
Last Updated: Feb 03, 2021     Views: 88

Yes, it is possible to create custom searches of select databases directly in WorldCat! This can save researchers considerable time by allowing them to search multiple databases simultaneously, rather than having to conduct multiple searches on each individual database page. In many cases, results for full text resources will include a direct link to the desired database.

This is accomplished through selecting and saving database changes on the advanced search page. On the right side of advanced search you will see a series of database filters:

You will notice that the default setting on this page includes the standard "WorldCat.org" database in addition to seven other databases selected for their interdisciplinary coverage and depth. The standard worldcat.org search covers books, journals, articles, etc. that are in the OCLC union catalog, including Fuller's print holdings and many eBook records, along with records from thousands of libraries around the world. The additional default databases are appropriate for general interdisciplinary searches across Fuller's schools. 

The "WorldCat Default" group search can be expanded through the selection of supplemental databases to generate additional results, or the results can be restricted by unchecking databases that are irrelevant to your research interests. 

Database "groups" were created to make comprehensive searching easier for particular subjects and formats. For instance, clicking "select all in group" under theology or psychology will select all of the databases pertaining to those subjects. The same holds true for the 'articles' and 'book' groups for those interested in expanding results in those formats. Please note that the more databases are added the longer a search will take. 

If you wish to browse all available databases (or those in any group) you can expand the database list by clicking the arrow next to the title. You can then use the boxes to select individual databases to search (or deselect particular databases from a group search). 

Regardless of which databases you select, you must click "Save Changes" before conducting your search, or your new database selections will not apply. The results of your search can be further filtered using the search tools on the left of the result screen (including the filtering of selected databases). 

Please Note: the linking of database records with WorldCat, while useful, is not perfect. If you want the most comprehensive search possible it is still best practice to search a particular database directly through the library's database page