The Internet is huge and can be confusing to search. It is easy to be overwhelmed with massive search results lists. We have compiled a subject directory of useful web links to help you zero in on relevant web sites. We periodically check these links to determine if they are still active and weed out those that no longer work. Should you find a dead link, however, please send us an email so we can update the directory.

Patrons of the Catawba County Library System have access to the collections of many libraries in the United States through the Interlibrary Loan (ILL) Services. If library staff determines that ILL is an appropriate resource to obtain the materials you need, the OCLC database is accessed to research your request. Library holdings are searched and prospective lenders are identified to request books or photocopies. A computer generated request is expedited within 3 working days. Due dates are assigned by the lending library and when renewal is allowed, the request should be made 4 working days before the book is due. Only one renewal request is allowed for each item on loan. If the lending library denies the renewal request, the material must be returned as soon as possible and no overdue fine is owed. Overdue fines for late materials are 50 cents per book. Please return materials promptly. Failure to do so may affect the library's ability to borrow from libraries.

The Catawba County Library System is a selective census depository. The library receives some print materials free of charge from the federal government. A larger amount of the vast census information from the federal government is accessible through the INTERNET. You may wish to research census information using the Internet computers available at each library location. Begin your research at the website: http://www.census.gov/. (See Computers and Internet Access section, for requirements to use library computers.)

The Catawba County Library System is a selective State Documents Depository. The library receives a portion of the official state documents in microfiche format and a smaller amount in paper format. The library is responsible for sharing these documents with users in a multi-county area. Microfiche reader/printers are available at the main library in Newton for viewing and printing. (The collection is housed at the main library.) You may photocopy documents for 20 cents per page. Patrons of Catawba County library branches may request that a photocopy of the microfiche document be made for them and sent via the library courier or they may come to the main library. Reader/printer equipment is not available at these locations. We will also fax copies of short documents (less than 10 pages).