card file
Tabbed reference system
A card file is a collection of index cards arranged systematically, typically in a box or drawer, for organizing information.
Before computers, card files were standard in libraries, offices, and research settings—library card catalogs being the most familiar example.
Each card held a discrete record: She flipped through the card file looking for his name.
The term now sounds dated, though physical card files persist in some contexts.
- indexAlphabetical guide to contents
- cabinetEnclosed storage furniture
- drawerSliding furniture compartment
- catalogOrdered list of items
- alphabeticalOrdered by letter sequence
Rolodex · tabs · library · library science · records · recipe · organizer · wooden · metal · box · sorting · reference · flip · cardboard · typewriter · office · office supplies · vintage
- listslist, roster, listing, register, grocery list
- office suppliespens, pencils, paper clip, staplers, paperclip
- index cardsflashcards
- punch cardskeypunch, chad, Hollerith
card filecloud storage
Online data preservation service
online database · digital archive · spreadsheet · hard drive · USB drive
card fileloose papers
card, file, cards, carded, carding, files, filed, filing, filer