Hardin Library Guide: Find Books And More Easily

The University of Iowa's Hardin Library is a comprehensive resource for students, faculty, and staff, offering a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and other materials to support academic and research endeavors. With its extensive holdings and user-friendly facilities, the library is an essential destination for anyone seeking to explore the world of knowledge. In this guide, we will provide an overview of the library's collections and services, as well as tips and strategies for finding books and other resources efficiently.
Discovering the Hardin Library’s Collections

The Hardin Library’s collections encompass a wide range of subjects and formats, including books, journals, databases, DVDs, and more. The library’s online catalog, InfoHawk+, is a powerful tool for searching and discovering resources. Users can search by author, title, subject, or keyword, and filter results by format, language, and other criteria. The catalog also provides access to electronic resources, such as e-books and online journals, which can be accessed remotely with a university login.
Searching for Books
When searching for books, it’s essential to use the correct keywords and search terms. The Hardin Library uses the Library of Congress Classification system, which organizes books by subject. Users can browse the shelves or search the online catalog to find books on a specific topic. The library also offers a book retrieval service, which allows users to request books from the stacks and have them delivered to a designated pickup location.
Collection | Format | Location |
---|---|---|
Main Collection | Books, Journals | 2nd-5th floors |
Reference Collection | Encyclopedias, Dictionaries | 1st floor |
Reserve Collection | Course materials, textbooks | Circulation desk |

Using Library Databases and Online Resources

In addition to its physical collections, the Hardin Library offers a wide range of online databases and resources, including academic journals, e-books, and streaming media. These resources can be accessed through the library’s website and are available 24⁄7. The library also provides research guides and tutorials to help users navigate these resources and develop their research skills.
Accessing Online Journals
The Hardin Library subscribes to thousands of online journals, which can be accessed through the library’s website. Users can search for specific journals or browse by subject using the Online Journals feature in InfoHawk+. The library also offers a journal retrieval service, which allows users to request articles from journals that are not available online.
- EBSCOhost: A comprehensive database of academic journals and e-books
- JSTOR: A digital library of academic journals, books, and primary sources
- ProQuest: A database of academic journals, newspapers, and other resources
How do I access the Hardin Library’s online resources?
+To access the Hardin Library’s online resources, you will need to log in with your university username and password. You can do this by clicking on the “Login” button on the library’s website and following the prompts.
Can I request books from other libraries?
+Yes, you can request books from other libraries through the Hardin Library’s Interlibrary Loan service. This service allows you to borrow books and other materials from libraries across the country.
How do I get help with my research?
+The Hardin Library offers a range of research services, including reference assistance and research consultations. You can contact the library’s reference desk or make an appointment with a librarian to get help with your research.