BCU Library Search is getting a glow up!

Library News Last updated 10 April

Two people are looking at a laptop screen together in a library, with bookshelves in the background.

If you're frustrated by searching for library resources, perhaps you're not even sure where to start, then good news! BCU Library Search is entering a new era. We're giving it a fresh look and adding loads of new features.

What's new?

The interface is a cleaner design. We've improved filtering options to highlight the resources that you've said are most important to you. You'll have easy access to full-text articles and be able to see more clearly where physical books are located in the library.

Even better, it works great on mobile. Whether you're rushing between lectures or studying on your lunch break, you'll be able to search millions of resources using your phone.

Search in your own words

One of the biggest changes is natural language searching. If keywords and Boolean operators aren't for you then you can type whatever you like into our dedicated search tool and BCU Library Search will do the rest.

For example, ask the search "how does AI impact learning and assessment in universities?". The system will transform your question and return relevant results.

Journal search

We've made it easier for you to search for our huge range of journal titles that support your studies, with an A-Z title listing, subject browsing, and title/ISSN search.

Article retractions and warnings

Via our new integration with LibKey, you'll see warnings about problematic articles and have the option to choose whether to proceed or search for an alternative resource. Whether you're reading around your topic or writing your literature review, you'll have more power to evaluate sources quickly.

Why it matters

BCU Library Search has been redesigned to meet your needs, whether you're a research pro or visiting a library for the first time! The easy to use search options allow you to find credible sources quickly.

The new BCU Library Search will drop this summer. You'll be able to trial it soon, so watch this space!

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