card catalog

noun

1. a file of cards of uniform size arranged in some definite order and listing the items in the collection of a library or group of libraries, each card typically identifying a single item.

Word History and Origins

Origin of card catalog¹

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55

Example Sentences

The burden upon the memory that this elaborate system of old must have entailed is now transferred to the card catalog.

From Project Gutenberg

Any subject that needed to be kept track of could be thus securely noted in the card catalog.

From Project Gutenberg

All of these card-catalog and other "devices" are a part of a great movement to put efficiency into every human industry.

From Project Gutenberg

Not so I take it with the person who ordinarily consults the card catalog of a public library.

From Project Gutenberg

A meeting was held there of the Publishing Board's committee on rules for a printed card catalog.

From Project Gutenberg