On July 28, 2026, the University Library launches Library Search, a new discovery platform providing a single, primary search experience to find materials from its collections as well as library-licensed electronic resources. The move to Library Search will provide a more sustainable, integrated, and user-focused discovery experience while positioning the Library to better support the evolving needs of its community.
Library Search offers:
- A unified search across the University Library’s print and electronic holdings.
- The ability to expand results beyond local collections to include materials available through Interlibrary Loan (ILL).
- Specialized search options for unique collections, including maps and archival materials, allowing users to refine searches more effectively.
- Easy access to and searching of I-Share Libraries consortium holdings.
The platform also searches an extensive Central Discovery Index (CDI) containing more than 1 billion records, including:
- Books and e-books
- Journal articles and book chapters
- Journals and newspapers
- DVDs and streaming media
- Maps
- Music scores
- Government documents
- And much more
In addition, Library Search includes content from the University Library’s digital repositories and collections, including:
- IDEALS
- University of Illinois Digital Library
- Illinois Data Bank
- Illinois Digital Newspapers Collection
Overall, the new Library Search provides a more comprehensive and curated discovery experience than general search tools such as Google Scholar, particularly for licensed resources, local collections, and accessible content.
Library Search replaces the current Library Catalog and Easy Search as the Library’s primary discovery service. Both will remain accessible through August 12, 2026 (covering the Summer 2026 session). After this date, access through the Library’s homepage and existing bookmarked Easy Search URLs will no longer be available.
Have a question? We’d love to hear from you:
discovery@library.illinois.edu