Tips on Library Resources: Part Two

In part 1 of Library tips, we concluded with how to search for articles and get them through the library’s access to journals. Sometimes, an article might be in a journal in which the MLibrary is not subscribed to. In that case, you will find a link to what is called the Interlibrary Loan (ILL)/7FAST. The ILL is a service provided by the library to request materials (articles, books, etc) that are not available in the library. According to what kind of material you are requesting, certain information will be asked to be provided which are basically item identifying information (e.g. in the case of an article, journal name, year, volume). 7FAST is a similar service but for items available at the library. You will receive an email instructing you on how to access the item you requested after processing your request. While waiting, you can track the progress of your request.

In the second floor of the Shapiro undergraduate library, there is the Askwith Media Library. In Askwith, you will find all course reserves (reference textbooks for classes) put on by Professors and Instructors. You can borrow those books but you can only read them inside the library and for limited hours (6 hours or so) after which you need to return the checked out item to avoid fines. In Askwith as well, you will have access to a huge collection of media resources both for academic purposes and for fun.

When you check items out of the library, you will be instructed on the due date. You will need to return the item on or before that date or renew it if you have that option on your account to avoid fines. Sometimes, an item might get requested by another patron during which the library’s system will send you a recall notification with a new due date. You can keep track of your account, checked out item, items nearing due date, recalled item, etc online by visiting the My Account icon on the MLibrary website.

The library is huge and resources are vast and after a while you may still face difficulties navigating the library. Ask a Librarian is a service available to you where you can chat with online librarians, email, phone, or ask questions in person.

From time to time, libraries hours change and they differ between different departments. It is advised to check the libraries hours before making the trip to the desired building. This is for example the hours of Hatcher Graduate Library this week.

I hope this article gave you some hints on some library basics and I wish you an enjoyable academic experience!

By Rasheed Alameer

Graduate Student