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Gallica
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Find something to read, consult a digitised book and explore publishing. Libraries, bookshops and publishers perform different roles.
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Open Library
Open website openlibrary.orgRecord and sourcesPrepare your research
Two tasks in this topic need different information. Use these prompts to prepare a search or enquiry.
| Task | Record | What not to infer |
|---|---|---|
| Locate a passage | Title, author, edition, chapter and page | Pagination can differ between editions |
| Choose access | Record, copy or digitised edition and terms | Catalogue presence does not guarantee online text |
Keep missing information visible before deciding.
Work, edition, format and copy: four different levels
An ISBN identifies a publication in a particular edition and format. Match the identifier to the record and the document actually used.
- Identify the edition
- Compare the format
- Check the individual copy
| Situation | What changes | Useful check |
|---|---|---|
| Same title, different translation | A shared title does not identify the required text. | Record translator, language, publisher and edition. |
| Print and EPUB | Different product forms receive different ISBNs. | Do not automatically transfer pagination between formats. |
| Well-formed ISBN | The check digit helps detect errors in the number. | Check the record: the digit establishes neither assignment nor availability. |
A cover does not replace the title page and edition details. For a loan or purchase, also check the volume, condition and availability with its holder.
Documentation : International ISBN Agency — What is an ISBN? ↗ · · Read the reference record →
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General-interest topics and everyday guides are available in four languages. Reference records and digital guides are provided in French and English. External website language depends on the destination.
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