The North University Library is a hub of knowledge and learning, providing students, faculty, and staff with access to a vast collection of books, journals, and other resources. With a strong commitment to supporting academic excellence, the library offers a wide range of services and facilities to help users find the information they need. In this article, we will explore the various ways to find books at the North University Library, including the library's catalog, online databases, and physical shelves.
Searching the Library Catalog
The North University Library’s catalog is a comprehensive online database that allows users to search for books, journals, and other materials by title, author, subject, or keyword. The catalog is accessible from the library’s website and can be searched using a simple keyword search or advanced search features. To search the catalog, users can follow these steps:
- Go to the North University Library’s website and click on the “Catalog” tab
- Enter your search terms in the search box and select the search type (e.g., title, author, subject)
- Click the “Search” button to retrieve a list of relevant results
- Browse the results list to find the book you need, and click on the title to view more information
The catalog provides detailed information about each book, including the title, author, publication date, and availability. Users can also use the catalog to request books that are currently checked out or to reserve a book for pickup at the library.
Using Online Databases
In addition to the library catalog, the North University Library provides access to a range of online databases that index books, journals, and other resources. These databases can be searched using keywords, authors, or subjects, and often provide full-text access to articles and book chapters. Some of the online databases available through the library include:
| Database | Description |
|---|---|
| JSTOR | A digital library of academic journals, books, and primary sources |
| EBSCOhost | A comprehensive database of academic journals, magazines, and books |
| ProQuest | A database of academic journals, newspapers, and books, with a focus on social sciences and humanities |
These databases can be accessed through the library’s website, and users can search them using the same techniques as the catalog. However, it’s worth noting that some databases may require authentication or have limited access, so users should check the library’s website for more information.
Browsing the Physical Shelves
While online searching is a convenient way to find books, browsing the physical shelves can be a great way to discover new titles and authors. The North University Library’s collection is organized using the Library of Congress Classification system, which groups books by subject area. Users can browse the shelves to find books on a specific topic or to explore related subjects.
To browse the shelves, users can follow these steps:
- Check the library’s website or catalog to determine the location of the book you’re looking for
- Go to the shelf location and look for the book on the shelf
- Browse the surrounding shelves to find related titles or authors
- Use the library’s shelf guides or ask a librarian for assistance if you need help finding a book
Browsing the physical shelves can be a great way to find books that you might not have discovered through online searching, and it can also be a good way to get a sense of the library’s collection and organization.
Requesting Books from Other Libraries
While the North University Library has a vast collection of books, there may be times when a user needs a book that is not available. In these cases, the library offers an interlibrary loan service, which allows users to request books from other libraries. To request a book through interlibrary loan, users can follow these steps:
- Check the library’s catalog to ensure that the book is not available at North University
- Go to the library’s website and click on the “Interlibrary Loan” tab
- Fill out the interlibrary loan request form, providing as much information as possible about the book
- Submit the request and wait for the library to process it
The interlibrary loan service can take several days to several weeks, depending on the availability of the book and the lending library. However, it’s a great way to access books that are not available at North University, and it can be a valuable resource for researchers and students.
How do I search for books in the North University Library catalog?
+To search for books in the North University Library catalog, go to the library’s website and click on the “Catalog” tab. Enter your search terms in the search box and select the search type (e.g., title, author, subject). Click the “Search” button to retrieve a list of relevant results.
Can I request books from other libraries if they are not available at North University?
+Yes, the North University Library offers an interlibrary loan service, which allows users to request books from other libraries. To request a book through interlibrary loan, go to the library’s website and click on the “Interlibrary Loan” tab. Fill out the interlibrary loan request form, providing as much information as possible about the book.
How do I browse the physical shelves at the North University Library?
+To browse the physical shelves at the North University Library, check the library’s website or catalog to determine the location of the book you’re looking for. Go to the shelf location and look for the book on the shelf. Browse the surrounding shelves to find related titles or authors, and use the library’s shelf guides or ask a librarian for assistance if you need help finding a book.
