Skip to Main Content

Library Terminology

Dictionary of common library terms.

O

OCLC

An abbreviation for Online Computer Library Center. The world's largest, most comprehensive bibliographic database. OCLC is used by libraries to collaborate cataloging materials, to perform reference work, and to provide a access to worldwide library holdings that Interlibrary Loan utilizes.

Online Catalog / Online Library Catalog

See Catalog.

Online Database

See Database.

OPAC

An acronym for Online Public Access Catalog.

See Catalog.

Open Access (OA)

A publishing model that advocates disseminating scholarly information without restrictions.

Overdue

Borrowed library items that have not been returned by their due date.

Oversized

See Folio.

Click a letter, then click on a word.