Learning Support

Image: Researcher with laptop


New Students

Welcome to the Library! You will probably have many questions to ask us, so we've listed a few ways to find the answers. If you can't find what you are looking for, just bookmark the Getting Help section and come back and ask us!

Where is the Library? Look for the diamond shaped building in the west of the Campus Map - we are Building 18.

When is the Library open? During term we are open until 12 each night and 24/7 during exams. Opening Hours for more details.

How do I register? All undergraduate and masters' students are automatically registered.

Do I need a card to borrow? Yes. Your University ID card is also your library card and you must bring this to borrow books. It's a good idea to carry it with you at all times just in case!

Username, Passwords, PIN? Yes, you need these too and you can get them from the Information and Enquiries Desk! The Username and Password is used to log onto computers. The Library PIN is for reserving books and checking your Library account. And finally, your ATHENS password lets you access lots of useful resources like e-books, e-journals and databases, although a few resources may need a specific password.

How do I find my way around the Library? Use the Library Map, check a floor plan on each of the three floors, or ask a librarian.

What can I borrow? Most books and DVDs can be borrowed. Print journals are usually reference only, but the good news is that the majority of journals are electronic and available to download. To find out more on how to borrow items visit Borrowing or take a look at the Self Issue video.

What happens if I bring a book back late? Late returns incur fines, so save yourself some money - don't bring them back late! Fines

How can I renew a book? On the Library Catalogue, the Self Issue machines or by phone. Renewals

 

Finding What You Need for Your Studies

Finding that course text book or the one key article which could make the difference to your final grade needn't be that difficult! We have the tools to help you find good quality information.

Reading Lists - you can find your reading lists on Learn, on the Library Catalogue or here. The lists link directly to the Library Catalogue so you can easily check availability of the recommended works for your module.

Library Catalogue Plus- find the books, e-books, journals journal articles and e-journals you need here.

 

Places to Study

How do you prefer to study? The Library has a variety of different study areas.

There are rooms for individual or group work, silent floors on levels 1 and 2 or the busier group learning space on level 3.

Looking for a PC or somewhere to connect to the Internet? There are around 160 PCs available and the Library is wired up to the wireless network with staff on hand to answer IT-related queries.

You can also use our printer/copier machines located on all levels of the Library to print off your essays or copy the chapter of that course book you need to read by Friday - but please check out the copyright notices first!

And if you'd like to watch a DVD, listen to a CD or use any of our multimedia tools, we can help there too. Check out the IT page for full details.

And if this is not enough, why not try Café 641 - a place where you can meet to discuss work or just relax and unwind with your friends.

 

Getting Help

If you find the whole business a bit baffling, then the Library offers a number of ways to help you work your way through the information maze.

Enquiry Services
There are information points on all three levels of the Library. We also operate an Ask a Librarian service by email.

Academic Librarians
Your Academic Librarian is the main contact for your Department and can help you with any information related question, large or small. Please email or telephone whenever you need some advice about accessing information or have any queries about Library services. We'll be happy to see you!

Workshops, online tutorials and advice sheets can help you enhance your study and information literacy skills. We call these ' Skills to Succeed ' and they can help you with all manner of activities, like revision, time management, literature searching. Check out the Know-How page for details of workshops and more!

Academic Practice - if you'd like to proceed at your own pace, why not try the interactive online tutorial?

Library Ambassadors
New for 2010/11 are our four student "Library Ambassadors"! You will see them out and about seeking to make the Library a better place. This year our Ambassadors are Fiona Rankin Watson (Science), Sarwen Khan (Engineering), Malle Koido (SSH) and David Evans (SSH). Feel free to flag them down and let them know how we can soup up our services!

Working Off-Campus?

You won't always be able to come in person into the Library or, indeed, onto the University campus. Here are a few ways to help you continue to use our services off-campus.

Remote Working Portal
Login to this service using your University username and password to access most electronic services such as databases and e-journals from off campus.

Using Other Libraries
Sconul Access allows students to visit other UK and Irish university libraries that participate in the scheme. You might also want to use the British Library if you are in London.

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Remember, we are here to help! Here's a reminder of the ways to contact us!