If books are important in your discipline, consider these sources:
Use UBC Library Interlibrary Loan to obtain materials not in the UBC Library collection. Note that you do not have to determine which library owns the item you want: simply place your Interlibrary Loan request. Lending periods and possibility for renewal are set by the lending library.
Most library catalogues use Library of Congress Subject Headings for subject description. These are available in a six-volume set on the counter behind the Koerner Library Research Commons Desk (one floor below the entrance) and online.
When you are starting your research on a topic, try looking up your key concepts in the Library of Congress Subject Headings. Often you will find ideas for other search terms that will help you to find relevant materials on your topic.