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WorldCat Search API 1.0 transition resources 

For more than 15 years, the WorldCat Search API 1.0 has enabled integration of WorldCat data into local library applications. Support for version 1.0 of the WorldCat Search API ended 31 December 2024.

OCLC is phasing out access to this API for libraries.

However, libraries using the following partner integrations will continue to be supported:

  • ExLibris Primo
  • Ebsco Discovery Service
  • Autographics ShareIt
  • Talis Aspire
  • Lean Library

OCLC is working with each of these partners to migrate all existing customers to version 2.0 of the WorldCat Search API.

For all other libraries still using version 1.0 of the API (those not using one of the integrations above), access will be turned off in phases beginning 6 January 2025. The schedule for end-of-access for these libraries is as follows:

Libraries making fewer than 100 requests

13 January 2025

Libraries making fewer than 1000 requests

27 January 2025

Libraries making fewer than 10000 requests

10 February 2025

Libraries making fewer than 50000 requests

24 February 2025

Libraries making more than 50000 requests

10     March 2025

A complete list of libraries in each phase is posted in the API community quick links. If your library appears in this list and needs additional time to complete your migration from version 1.0 of the WorldCat Search API, or is using one of the integrations listed above, please contact OCLC Support in your region to extend your library’s access to version 1.0 of the WorldCat Search API.

About WorldCat Search API 2.0

  • A uniform understandable data model using JSON for data exchange.
  • Modern authentication technology patterns of OAuth 2.0 to support different types of client applications. 
  • Enhanced features like facets and access to additional library data to support integration in today’s discovery interfaces. 
  • Additional search options and indexes for precise searching. 

Recommended transition paths 

We encourage you to implement alternate OCLC solutions for your primary uses of the WorldCat Search API 1.0. 

Current WorldCat Search API 1.0 use 

Recommended alternative 

Extract metadata from WorldCat for use in a local system 

WorldCat Metadata API 2.0

Obtain data to build citations 

Citation API* 

Embed WorldCat data into a local discovery service 

WorldCat Search API 2.0

Collection analytics (compare holdings with other OCLC members) 

Choreo Insights service 

Build URLs to a local catalog 

Access Options API* 

Bibliometrics (Analyze bibliographic data for patterns) 

WorldShare Collection Manager – query collections

*Included in WorldCat Discovery Premium API package

Compare functionality in WorldCat Search API 1.0, WorldCat Search API 2.0, and the WorldCat Discovery Premium API package. 

Compare functionality in WorldCat Search API 1.0 and WorldCat Metadata API 2.0 for obtaining MARC metadata. 

Support for your transition 

Our API team is committed to supporting your transition from version 1.0 of the WorldCat Search API to a newer OCLC API or service.

Learn from an API expert

Help for specific transition tasks 

Personal assistance when you need it