Library Help Center

Library Help Center

General Library Information

What are the library opening hours?

The library is open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Friday. On weekends, the library opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 8:00 PM. During exam periods, the library may extend its hours until midnight. Please check the library website for special holiday hours as they may vary. The 24-hour study area is accessible to all students with a valid ID card outside of regular library hours.

Where is the library located?

The main library is located in the Central Academic Complex, Building C, Levels 1 through 4. The entrance is on Level 2 near the main courtyard. There are signs throughout the campus directing you to the library. If you're coming by car, the nearest parking is in Lot P3. The library is wheelchair accessible with elevators available on all floors. A campus map with the library location highlighted can be found on the university website.

How can I contact the library?

You can contact the library in several ways. The main phone number is +603-6196-4000 during operating hours. For email inquiries, you can write to library@iium.edu.my. There is also a live chat service available on the library website from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. For in-person assistance, visit the Information Desk on Level 2 of the library. Each department also has specific contact information listed on their respective pages on the library website.

Who can become a library member?

All currently enrolled students, faculty, and staff of the university are automatically library members. Alumni can maintain their membership by registering at the circulation desk and paying an annual fee. Community members may apply for limited borrowing privileges by completing an application form and providing proof of address. Corporate memberships are also available for local businesses. All members must agree to abide by the library's rules and regulations.

What are the basic library rules?

The library has several important rules to ensure a good environment for all users. Food is not allowed except in designated areas. Drinks must be in closed containers. Mobile phones should be set to silent mode, and calls must be taken outside. Library materials should be treated with care and returned on time. Noise should be kept to a minimum, especially in quiet study areas. The library reserves the right to ask users to leave if they violate these rules or disturb others.

Borrowing and Returning Items

How do I borrow books from the library?

To borrow books, first locate the items you want using the library catalog. Bring the books to the circulation desk along with your student or staff ID card. The librarian will scan your card and the books to complete the checkout process. You can also use the self-checkout machines available near the entrance. Most books circulate for 14 days, but this may vary for different material types. You will receive a receipt with the due dates for all items borrowed. Always check this receipt to avoid overdue fines.

How do I return books to the library?

Books can be returned to the circulation desk during opening hours or deposited in the book drop located near the library entrance when the library is closed. For off-campus returns, there is a book drop at the Student Services Center. Please ensure that all items are intact when returning them. If you receive any error messages when returning items, please notify library staff immediately. You can check your account online to confirm that items have been properly returned.

How long can I keep borrowed items?

The standard loan period for most books is 14 days. High-demand items may have shorter loan periods of 7 days. Reference books and periodicals cannot be borrowed but may be used within the library. Faculty members typically have longer loan periods of 60 days for regular books. DVDs and other media items usually circulate for 7 days. You can check the specific due date for each item on your account page in the library system or on the receipt you receive when checking out items.

Can I renew my borrowed items?

Yes, most items can be renewed if no one else has requested them. You can renew items online through your library account, by phone, or in person at the circulation desk. Items may be renewed up to 3 times unless they have been requested by another user. Some high-demand items may have restrictions on renewals. To renew online, log into your library account, select the items you wish to renew, and click the renew button. Always check the new due date after renewing.

What are the overdue fines for late returns?

Overdue fines are charged at a rate of RM0.50 per day per item for regular books. High-demand items accrue fines at RM1.00 per day. The maximum fine per item is RM20.00. Fines for DVDs and other media items are RM1.00 per day with a maximum of RM30.00. Fines begin accumulating the day after the due date. You will receive email reminders before and after items become overdue. Unpaid fines may prevent you from borrowing additional materials or accessing certain services.

Library Resources

How do I find books in the library?

To find books, use the online library catalog available on the library website. You can search by title, author, subject, or keyword. Each book record will show the call number, location, and availability status. Write down the complete call number and location information before going to the shelves. Books are arranged on the shelves in numerical order according to the Library of Congress Classification System. If you need help locating a book, ask at the Information Desk or use the library map available at all service desks.

How do I access e-books?

The library provides access to thousands of e-books through various platforms. To access them, go to the library website and click on the E-Resources tab, then select E-Books. You can browse by subject or search for specific titles. Most e-books can be read online immediately after logging in with your university credentials. Some platforms allow downloading chapters or the entire book for a limited time. If you're off-campus, you may need to log in through the university's proxy server to access these resources.

How do I use library databases?

Library databases can be accessed through the E-Resources section of the library website. Select a database relevant to your subject area or search across multiple databases using the discovery service. When prompted, log in with your university credentials, especially when accessing from off-campus. Each database has its own search interface, but most allow you to search by keywords, author, title, or subject. Use the advanced search options to refine your results. Librarians can provide guidance on choosing and using the most appropriate databases for your research needs.

How do I find journal articles?

To find journal articles, start at the library website and select the Journals tab. You can search for a specific journal title or browse by subject. For articles on a topic, use the article databases or discovery service. Enter your search terms and use the filters to limit by date, subject, or peer-reviewed status. Many articles are available in full text online. If the full text isn't available, check the print journals in the library or request the article through interlibrary loan. Librarians can help you develop effective search strategies.

What special collections does the library have?

The library maintains several special collections including rare books, manuscripts, university archives, and special subject collections. The Islamic Manuscript Collection contains over 500 items dating back to the 15th century. The University Archives preserves historical documents related to the institution. The Southeast Asia Collection focuses on materials about the region. Access to special collections is by appointment only, and some materials may have restricted use. Contact the Special Collections Department for more information about these unique resources and how to access them.

How do I book a study room?

Study rooms can be booked online through the library website or at the Information Desk. Current students can book rooms for up to 3 hours per day. To book online, select the 'Study Rooms' option on the library website, choose your preferred room and time slot, and confirm your booking with your student ID. You'll receive a confirmation email with your booking details. Rooms must be occupied within 15 minutes of the booking time or they may be given to other students. Group study rooms are prioritized for groups of 3 or more students.

What printing services are available in the library?

The library provides both black-and-white and color printing services. Print stations are located on all floors. To print, send your document to the print queue from any library computer or upload it via the web printing portal using your university credentials. Release your print job at any print station by logging in with your student ID and selecting your documents. Black-and-white prints cost RM0.20 per page, while color prints cost RM1.00 per page. Payment is deducted from your student account balance. Printing assistance is available at the Information Desk.

Study Spaces and Facilities

What is the capacity of the study rooms?

The library offers study rooms in various sizes to accommodate different group needs. Small study rooms accommodate 2-4 people, medium rooms hold 5-8 people, and large rooms can fit 9-12 people. Each room is equipped with tables, chairs, whiteboards, and power outlets. Some larger rooms have LCD screens for presentations. The room capacity is clearly posted outside each room and must not be exceeded for safety reasons. During peak periods, library staff may check room occupancy to ensure fair access for all students.

Where are the quiet study areas located?

The library has designated quiet study areas on Levels 3 and 4, marked with special signage. These areas have individual study carrels and enforced silence policies. The Reading Room on Level 3 is a completely silent area where no talking or group work is permitted. Level 4 North Wing also has a quiet zone with reduced lighting for concentrated study. Headphones are available for loan at the Information Desk if you need to block out noise. Library staff regularly monitor these areas to maintain the quiet environment, and users may report disturbances to any staff member.

How many computers are available for student use?

The library provides over 150 computers for student use across all floors. Level 2 has the main computer lab with 80 workstations equipped with specialized software. Each floor has computer stations near the reference collections. All computers provide access to the internet, library resources, Microsoft Office, and subject-specific software. Printing is available from all computers. During peak times, there may be a 30-minute time limit on computer use when others are waiting. Laptops are also available for 4-hour loans at the Technology Desk on Level 2.

Can I borrow a laptop from the library?

Yes, the library offers laptop loans for current students. Laptops can be borrowed for up to 4 hours at a time and must remain in the library. To borrow a laptop, visit the Technology Desk on Level 2 with your student ID. You'll need to sign a loan agreement and will be responsible for any damage. Laptops come pre-installed with necessary software and connect to the university WiFi. About 30 laptops are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Late returns will incur fines of RM5.00 per hour. All files should be saved to cloud storage or USB drives as laptops are wiped after each use.

Is there after-hours access to the library?

The library building has limited after-hours access through the 24/7 Study Center located on Level 1. This space is accessible to all current students with a valid ID card swipe from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM when the main library is closed. The Study Center has seating for 120 students, computers, printers, and vending machines. Security personnel are always present. Please note that library services like borrowing books or staff assistance are not available during these hours. The main library collection cannot be accessed after hours, but you may bring in materials you've already checked out.

Research Help

How do I schedule a research consultation with a librarian?

Research consultations with subject librarians can be scheduled through the library website. Click on "Research Help" and then "Schedule a Consultation." Choose your subject area and available time slot. Consultations are typically 30-60 minutes and can be conducted in person or online via Zoom. You'll receive a confirmation email with meeting details. Before your appointment, prepare specific questions or share your research topic in advance so the librarian can prepare relevant resources. These consultations are particularly helpful for thesis or dissertation research, major projects, or when you're having difficulty finding appropriate sources.

Where can I get help with citations and references?

The library offers several options for citation help. The Writing Center on Level 2 provides one-on-one assistance with citations during their opening hours. Online citation guides for APA, MLA, Chicago, and other styles are available on the library website. The "Cite It Right" workshops are held monthly - check the events calendar for dates. Reference librarians can answer quick citation questions at the Information Desk. For automated citation generation, use the built-in tools in databases like Scopus or the library's recommended citation management software like Zotero or Mendeley, which have dedicated help sessions at the beginning of each semester.

How do I find theses and dissertations?

The library maintains a collection of all university theses and dissertations in both print and digital formats. Print copies are shelved in the Theses Section on Level 3 arranged by department and year. Electronic versions are available through the institutional repository - search for "Digital Theses" on the library website. You can browse by department, author, or keyword. Some theses may have restricted access at the author's request. For theses from other institutions, check the ProQuest Dissertations database available through the library's e-resources. Interlibrary loan services can obtain copies of theses from other universities when available.

What resources are available for conducting a literature review?

The library provides comprehensive support for literature reviews. Start with the subject guides on the library website which list key databases and journals in each discipline. The Discovery Service allows you to search across multiple databases simultaneously. Citation tracking tools like Web of Science can help you follow research trails. Reference managers like EndNote or Zotero help organize your sources. The "Advanced Research Methods" guide includes tips for systematic reviews. Librarians can demonstrate techniques like controlled vocabulary searching and setting up search alerts. The library also offers literature review workshops each semester covering strategies for comprehensive searching and source evaluation.

Does the library help with research data management?

Yes, the library's Research Data Service assists with all aspects of data management. Services include creating data management plans for grant applications, advice on data collection methods, metadata creation, data storage solutions, and long-term data preservation. The library maintains a data repository for sharing and preserving research data. Workshops on data management are offered monthly, covering topics like file organization, documentation, and sharing data ethically. For complex projects, you can schedule a consultation with the Data Librarian. The library also provides guidance on funder requirements for data management and sharing, including compliance with open access policies.

Technology Services

How do I connect to the library WiFi?

The library provides Eduroam WiFi access throughout the building. To connect, select "eduroam" from your device's WiFi networks. Use your university email address (username@student.iium.edu.my) and password to authenticate. First-time users may need to install a security certificate available from the IT Services website. Guest WiFi access is available for visitors by requesting a temporary login at the Information Desk. The WiFi supports all standard internet activities but may block certain high-bandwidth applications during peak times. If you experience connection issues, the Technology Help Desk on Level 2 can assist with troubleshooting during regular service hours.

What scanning services are available?

The library offers several scanning options. Self-service book scanners are available on Levels 2 and 3 that can save scans to USB drives or email in PDF or JPEG format. These scanners handle both single pages and book spreads with automatic page-flattening technology. The Document Center on Level 2 provides professional scanning services for a fee, including large-format scanning for posters or fragile materials. All scanners include OCR (optical character recognition) to create searchable PDFs. Copyright law permits scanning up to 10% or one chapter of a work for personal study. Please respect copyright restrictions when using scanning services.

What software is available on library computers?

Library computers provide a wide range of software including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), statistical packages (SPSS, NVivo), design software (Adobe Creative Cloud, AutoCAD), programming tools (Python, R Studio), and subject-specific applications. The Media Lab on Level 3 has specialized software for video editing, 3D modeling, and graphic design. All computers have anti-virus software and current operating system updates. A complete list of available software with locations is on the library website. If you need software that isn't currently available, you can submit a request to the Technology Desk. Some specialized software may require prior training or supervision to use.

Are there charging stations for devices?

Yes, the library has over 200 charging points throughout the building. Study carrels and tables are equipped with power outlets and USB ports. Dedicated charging stations for phones and tablets are located near seating areas on all floors. Laptop charging lockers are available on Level 2 where you can securely charge your device while studying elsewhere in the library. The library provides universal chargers for loan at the Technology Desk if you forget yours. Please do not leave devices unattended while charging, as the library is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Power banks are also available for 4-hour loans with your student ID.

What assistive technology is available for students with disabilities?

The library offers various assistive technologies in the Accessibility Center on Level 1. Equipment includes screen readers (JAWS, NVDA), screen magnification software, Braille displays, adaptive keyboards, and trackball mice. The scanning and reading station can convert printed text to speech or digital formats. Study rooms with adjustable lighting and noise-canceling features are available. All library computers have accessibility features enabled. Students needing these services should register with the Disability Support Office first to arrange training and access. Library staff can retrieve materials and provide assistance upon request. The library website is also designed to meet WCAG accessibility standards.

Interlibrary Services

How does interlibrary loan work?

Interlibrary loan (ILL) allows you to borrow materials not available in our library from other institutions. To request an ILL, complete the online form on the library website with complete citation information. Most book loans arrive within 7-10 days and can be used for 3 weeks. Articles typically arrive electronically within 2-3 days. There is usually no charge for this service, but some rare items may involve fees which you'll be notified about before processing. You'll receive an email when items arrive and can pick them up at the Circulation Desk. Some restrictions apply to ILL materials, such as no renewals and in-library use only for certain items. The library processes hundreds of ILL requests each month with a 90% fulfillment rate.

What is document delivery service?

Document delivery provides electronic copies of journal articles or book chapters from the library's print collection or from other libraries. Current students, faculty, and staff can request up to 5 items per week through the online request system. Articles from our print journals are typically delivered within 24 hours via email. Items from other libraries may take 2-5 days. There is no charge for this service unless the item requires payment from the supplying library, in which case you'll be contacted for approval first. The service complies with copyright law, providing only one article from a journal issue or one chapter from a book. Saved searches can be set up for ongoing research needs.

How does the recall process work for books?

If a book you need is checked out, you can place a recall request through your library account. This notifies the current borrower that the item is needed by someone else and sets a new due date 7 days from the recall notice. You'll be notified when the item is returned. Recalled items that aren't returned by the new due date accrue fines of RM5.00 per day. Some materials like reserve items or newly acquired books may not be recallable. If the item isn't returned within 14 days of recall, it's declared lost and the borrower is charged replacement fees. You can check the status of your recall requests in your library account at any time.

Can I suggest a book or resource for the library to purchase?

Yes, the library welcomes purchase suggestions from students and faculty. Use the "Suggest a Purchase" form on the library website to recommend books, DVDs, journals, or databases. Include as much information as possible (title, author, ISBN, etc.) and indicate why the item would be valuable for study or research. The library acquires about 70% of suggested titles, with priority given to materials supporting coursework and faculty research. You'll receive an email when a decision is made about your suggestion. If purchased, you'll be notified when the item is available for use. Faculty may also be contacted by subject librarians for input on major resource acquisitions in their disciplines.

What other libraries can I access through the consortium?

As part of the Malaysian Research Library Network, our students and faculty have access to 22 major academic libraries nationwide. Your student ID serves as your consortium card. Each library has different access policies - some allow borrowing while others permit only on-site use. The most frequently visited partner libraries include UM, USM, and UPM. Before visiting, check the consortium website for current access policies and hours. Some specialized collections require advance notice. The library also participates in international reciprocal agreements giving our researchers access to select overseas institutions. Ask at the Reference Desk for letters of introduction when planning research visits to other libraries.

Library Instruction

What library workshops are offered?

The library offers workshops throughout the academic year covering research skills, citation management, database searching, and more. Popular sessions include "Mastering PubMed," "Zotero in 30 Minutes," "Systematic Review Methods," and "Data Visualization Tools." Workshops are typically 50 minutes and scheduled at various times to accommodate different schedules. The complete workshop calendar is available on the library website with options to register online. Many workshops are recorded and available for later viewing. Faculty can request customized workshops for their classes on specific research assignments. Attendance at certain workshops may count toward graduate student research requirements - check with your department.

Can a librarian come to my class for research instruction?

Yes, faculty can arrange for library instruction sessions tailored to specific courses or assignments. Contact your subject librarian at least two weeks in advance to schedule a session. Instruction can cover database searching, evaluating sources, citation methods, or other research skills. Sessions work best when tied to a specific assignment and can be held in the library's instruction lab, your classroom, or online. Librarians can also create customized research guides for your course. For advanced classes, embedded librarians can participate in your learning management system to provide ongoing research support. Assessment options are available to measure student learning from library sessions.

Are there online tutorials for library research?

The library provides a comprehensive suite of online tutorials through the "Research Skills" section of the website. These include video tutorials on searching databases, interactive modules on evaluating sources, and subject-specific research guides. The "Research 101" series covers basic skills while advanced topics like systematic reviews have dedicated learning paths. Tutorials can be accessed anytime and many include self-check quizzes. Faculty can link to specific tutorials in their courses or assign them as preparatory work. The library also offers "Micro Lessons" - 2-5 minute videos answering common research questions. All tutorials are designed to work on mobile devices and are closed-captioned for accessibility.

How do I find subject guides for my discipline?

Subject guides curated by librarians are available for all major disciplines offered at the university. To find them, go to the library website and click "Research Guides," then select your subject area. Each guide highlights key resources like databases, journals, reference works, and research methods specific to that field. Many guides also include information about data sources, professional organizations, and writing/publishing in the discipline. Course-specific guides are created for classes with major research components. Subject librarians regularly update these guides and welcome suggestions for additional resources. You can also contact the subject librarian listed on each guide for personalized research assistance in that field.

Is there a research skills certificate program?

The library offers a Research Skills Certificate program that recognizes students who complete a series of information literacy workshops. To earn the certificate, attend any 6 library workshops within an academic year or complete the equivalent online modules. The program covers topics like advanced database searching, managing citations, avoiding plagiarism, and data management. Participants receive a digital badge to display on portfolios or LinkedIn profiles, plus a formal certificate. Graduate students can fulfill part of their research methods requirements through this program. Workshop attendance is tracked automatically when you register with your university email. The certificate appears on your co-curricular transcript, documenting your research skill development.

Special Collections

How do I access special collections materials?

Special Collections materials are available by appointment Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. To request materials, search the Special Collections catalog on the library website and note the call numbers of items you wish to view. Then complete the online request form at least 24 hours before your planned visit. Some fragile or rare items may require additional advance notice. When you arrive, you'll need to present photo ID and register as a Special Collections researcher. Materials must be used in the supervised Reading Room under certain handling guidelines (no food/drink, pencil-only note-taking, etc.). Photography may be allowed for some items - ask staff about policies.

What rare books does the library hold?

The library's rare book collection includes over 5,000 volumes dating from the 15th century to present. Highlights include early printed Qurans, 17th-19th century European works on Islamic studies, early Malay printed books, and limited edition literary works. The collection is particularly strong in Southeast Asian history, Islamic science, and colonial-era publications. Many rare books have been digitized and can be previewed in the Digital Collections gallery on the library website. Physical access requires an appointment in the Special Collections Reading Room where staff will retrieve materials for you. Researchers must follow strict handling procedures to preserve these valuable items for future study.

What is in the Islamic manuscript collection?

The Islamic Manuscript Collection contains over 500 manuscripts primarily in Arabic, Malay, and Jawi script, dating from the 15th to early 20th centuries. The collection includes Quranic texts, hadith commentaries, fiqh works, Sufi treatises, and manuscripts on Islamic astronomy and medicine. Notable items include a 16th-century Malay legal code and an illuminated Mughal-era Quran. Many manuscripts have been digitized with high-resolution images available online. Physical access requires an appointment and supervision by Special Collections staff. The library offers paleography workshops to help researchers read historical scripts. Conservation work is ongoing to preserve these fragile materials while making them available for scholarly study.

What materials are in the university archives?

The University Archives preserves the institutional memory of the university, including administrative records, publications, photographs, and memorabilia dating from the founding in 1983. Researchers can find annual reports, Senate minutes, course catalogs, student newspapers, and departmental records. The archives also hold personal papers of notable faculty, oral history interviews, and a collection of university theses. Materials are organized according to archival principles and described in finding aids available online. Access to some recent administrative records may be restricted - consult the University Archivist about policies. The archives are open to all researchers by appointment and provide valuable primary sources for studying the history of the institution.

How do I access the library's digital collections?

The library's digital collections can be accessed 24/7 through the Digital Collections portal on the library website. These include digitized manuscripts, historical photographs, university publications, and special collections materials. You can browse by collection or search across all digital items. High-resolution images are available for most items with zooming capability to examine details. Many items include scholarly descriptions and metadata. Some collections offer IIIF compatibility for advanced image manipulation. Copyright information is provided for each item, indicating how it may be used in research or publications. The library continues to add new digitized materials regularly, prioritizing unique holdings and items requested by researchers.

What special services are available for graduate researchers?

Graduate students have access to specialized services including extended loan periods (60 days for books), priority access to study carrels, and increased interlibrary loan allowances. The Graduate Research Office on Level 3 provides quiet workspace, thesis formatting assistance, and statistical software support. Subject librarians offer in-depth research consultations for literature reviews and methodology development. The library hosts an annual Graduate Research Symposium showcasing student work. Thesis students can deposit their completed work through the digital repository system. Workshops tailored to graduate needs cover topics like managing citations for long projects, research data organization, and publishing strategies. Ask at the Research Services Desk about all graduate-focused offerings.

What services does the library offer faculty?

Faculty enjoy enhanced library services including extended loan periods (120 days for books), proxy borrowing privileges for research assistants, and priority document delivery. Subject librarians can collaborate on course design, create course-specific research guides, and provide instruction sessions. The Scholarly Communications Office assists with publication strategies, copyright questions, and open access publishing. Faculty may reserve group study rooms for research team meetings. New faculty receive personalized orientation sessions. The library also supports faculty research through literature search services, citation analysis, and assistance with grant applications requiring information resources plans. Faculty publications are highlighted in the institutional repository, increasing visibility of their work.

What library access do alumni have?

Alumni may maintain borrowing privileges by registering for an alumni library card at the Circulation Desk (annual fee applies). Alumni can access the library building during regular hours and use print collections on site. Remote access to selected databases is available through the Alumni Portal on the university website. Interlibrary loan services are offered at reduced cost. Alumni may use study spaces when available but cannot reserve rooms. The Career Resources Collection offers job search materials. Alumni can purchase printing and copying services at reduced rates. Some restrictions apply to high-demand or licensed resources. The library hosts alumni events showcasing special collections and new services. Contact the Alumni Relations Office for current access policies and fees.

How can I suggest improvements to library services?

The library welcomes feedback and suggestions for improvement. You can complete the online feedback form available on every library webpage, available anonymously if preferred. Suggestion boxes are located near all service desks. The Library Advisory Committee, which includes student representatives, meets monthly to review suggestions. For major concerns, you may request a meeting with the relevant department head. The library conducts user surveys every two years to guide strategic planning. Many improvements like extended hours, new furniture, and popular titles purchases result directly from user suggestions. When making suggestions, please be specific about the change you'd like to see and how it would benefit users - this helps us evaluate and prioritize improvements.

Research Tools

What reference management tools does the library support?

The library provides comprehensive support for several reference management tools including Zotero, Mendeley, and EndNote. These tools help you collect, organize, cite, and share research sources. Zotero is our recommended free option with unlimited cloud storage through your university account. The library offers monthly workshops on each tool, covering basics like creating libraries, importing references, and generating citations in various styles. We maintain detailed online guides with step-by-step instructions for each software. Librarians can help troubleshoot issues during regular consultation hours. The library computers have all three programs installed, and you can download them for free on your personal devices through the library website.

What tools are available for systematic reviews?

The library supports several specialized tools for systematic reviews and other evidence synthesis projects. Covidence is available for screening and data extraction with institutional licenses - register with your university email. We provide access to Rayyan for collaborative screening and PRISMA for flow diagrams. The library computers have NVivo for qualitative data analysis and RevMan for Cochrane reviews. Our Research Commons offers high-performance computers for running complex analyses. Librarians trained in systematic review methods can advise on developing search strategies, documenting processes, and using these tools effectively. We also maintain a collection of protocols and completed reviews for reference in our Systematic Review Toolkit available online.

What tools does the library offer for managing research data?

The library provides access to a suite of research data management tools. For data organization, we recommend Open Science Framework (OSF) which integrates with your university account. Qualitative researchers can use NVivo available on library workstations. For quantitative analysis, SPSS, Stata, and RStudio are available. Data visualization tools include Tableau Public and RAWGraphs. We provide Figshare for data sharing and preservation with DOI assignment. All tools come with library-created tutorials and workshops offered each semester. The Data Librarian can help select appropriate tools for your project and advise on creating data management plans required by many funders. Some tools have limitations on sensitive data - consult with us about secure options when needed.

How do I use the library's discovery tool for comprehensive searches?

The library's discovery tool, called OneSearch, allows you to search across most of our collections simultaneously. Access it from the large search box on the library homepage. For effective searching, use the advanced search option to combine keywords with Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT). Filter results by publication date, resource type, or subject area using the left sidebar. Save searches and set up email alerts for new materials by creating a personal account. The tool connects directly to full text when available or provides interlibrary loan options. For complex research questions, consider consulting a librarian as discipline-specific databases may provide more precise results for specialized topics.

How do I connect Google Scholar to library resources?

To link Google Scholar to our library subscriptions, first go to Google Scholar settings (click the menu icon > Settings > Library Links). Search for our university name and check the boxes for our library resources. Save your settings. When searching, look for "Full Text @MyUniLib" links beside results to access subscribed content. When off-campus, use the proxy bookmarklet or configure your browser to route requests through our proxy server. Remember that Google Scholar doesn't include all our resources - for comprehensive searching, use library databases. We offer a "Scholar to Database" guide comparing coverage and appropriate uses of each tool. Librarians can demonstrate advanced Google Scholar techniques like citation tracking and author profiles.

Proofreading Services

Does the library offer proofreading services?

The library partners with the University Writing Center to provide proofreading and academic editing support. While we don't offer full proofreading services, writing consultants can help you identify and correct patterns of errors in grammar, punctuation, and academic style. Make an appointment through the Writing Center's online system for a 45-minute session. Bring a printed copy of your work or access it digitally during the session. Consultants won't edit your work for you but will teach you how to improve your writing. For thesis and dissertation writers, we offer special "Format Checks" to verify citation consistency and document structure. The library also maintains a collection of style manuals and writing guides at the Reference Desk for self-study.

What grammar and writing checkers does the library recommend?

The library recommends several digital writing aids available through our subscriptions. Grammarly Premium is available to all students - register with your university email for enhanced features. Our computers have Ginger Software installed which checks grammar and suggests style improvements. The Academic Phrasebank helps with scholarly writing conventions. We caution against over-reliance on these tools, as they may miss discipline-specific writing norms. The Writing Center offers workshops on "Using Grammar Checkers Effectively" that teach you how to evaluate suggestions critically. For non-native English speakers, we maintain a collection of specialized resources like the Oxford Learner's Dictionary and academic vocabulary builders available at the Reference Desk.

What help is available for thesis formatting and proofreading?

The library offers comprehensive thesis support through our Graduate Research Services. We provide template files for theses and dissertations formatted to university requirements. Monthly "Thesis Formatting Clinics" walk through common issues with tables of contents, citation styles, and figure placement. For proofreading, we offer peer writing groups where graduate students exchange chapters for review. Our "Citation Consistency Checks" verify that all references match the required style guide. The library maintains a collection of successfully submitted theses for reference. While we don't proofread entire documents, writing consultants can review sample sections to identify recurring issues. Allow at least two weeks before submission deadlines for formatting reviews.

Can I get my paper checked for plagiarism before submission?

The library provides access to Turnitin's Originality Check service for students to review their work before final submission. Each student may submit up to 3 papers per semester for checking through our "Draft Check" system. Visit the Research Services Desk with your student ID to access this service. The report highlights text matches and provides a similarity percentage, but doesn't determine plagiarism - you must interpret the results with your instructor's guidelines in mind. Writing consultants can help you understand reports and properly paraphrase problematic sections. We also offer workshops on "Avoiding Plagiarism Through Proper Citation" that teach source integration techniques. Remember that draft checks may be recorded in Turnitin's database.

Where can I get help with academic writing style?

The Academic Writing Support Service, located in the Research Commons, offers one-on-one consultations on scholarly writing style. Consultants can help with discipline-specific writing conventions, structuring arguments, and achieving appropriate academic tone. We maintain discipline-specific writing guides for all major fields that outline expected writing styles and common phrases. The library's "Academic Phrasebank" database provides templates for common scholarly writing functions. Our "Writing in the Disciplines" workshop series features faculty from different departments explaining field-specific expectations. For non-native English speakers, we offer specialized "Academic English" sessions focusing on grammar structures common in scholarly writing. All services are free but require advance booking.

Turnitin

How do I access Turnitin for my assignments?

Turnitin is integrated with the university's learning management system (LMS). To access it, log into your course in the LMS and navigate to the assignment submission area. Your instructor will provide specific submission instructions. The first time you use Turnitin, you may need to accept the terms of service. Assignments are typically submitted by file upload or text entry with due dates and times clearly displayed. After submission, you'll receive a confirmation email. Some instructors enable the "Originality Report" feature which becomes available shortly after submission - check with your instructor about when and how you can view this. If you encounter technical issues, contact the IT Help Desk with details of the problem and screenshots if possible.

How do I interpret my Turnitin similarity report?

The Turnitin similarity report shows percentage matches between your work and sources in its database. Color-coding indicates match levels (blue 0%, green 1-24%, yellow 25-49%, orange 50-74%, red 75-100%). Click on highlighted sections to see matched sources. Some matches are normal (properly cited quotes, bibliography entries) while uncited text matches may indicate problems. There's no universal "safe" percentage - your instructor determines acceptable levels for each assignment. The library offers workshops on "Understanding Turnitin Reports" that teach how to distinguish between proper citation and potential plagiarism. Remember that Turnitin can't determine plagiarism - only your instructor can make that judgment based on assignment requirements and citation norms.

How can I improve my Turnitin similarity score?

To improve your similarity score, first review all highlighted passages in your report. For properly cited quotes, no changes are needed if they follow assignment guidelines. For other matches, consider paraphrasing more thoroughly while still citing the source. Ensure all borrowed ideas are properly attributed, even when paraphrased. Check that your reference list includes all cited sources. Reduce reliance on direct quotes unless absolutely necessary. The library's "Paraphrasing Effectively" guide provides techniques for restating ideas in your own words. Writing consultants can review problematic sections with you. If self-matches appear (from your previous work), consult your instructor about whether this requires citation. Always allow time to review and revise before final submission deadlines.

Can I resubmit my paper to Turnitin?

Resubmission options depend on your instructor's settings. Some allow multiple submissions with updated reports, while others permit only one submission. If allowed, the new submission typically replaces the previous one and generates a new report. There's usually a 24-hour waiting period between report generations for the same assignment. For assignments with only one submission allowed, you may request that your instructor clears your first submission so you can upload a revised version. The library's draft checking service (separate from course submissions) allows you to check work before final submission. Always confirm your instructor's policies and keep backup copies of all submissions and reports.

Where can I find answers to other Turnitin questions?

The library maintains an extensive Turnitin FAQ on our website covering technical issues, interpretation help, and policy questions. We offer monthly "Turnitin Help Sessions" where you can bring specific questions. The IT Help Desk handles login and technical problems. For assignment-specific questions, consult your instructor first. Our "Avoiding Plagiarism" research guide includes Turnitin information along with citation resources and paraphrasing techniques. The official Turnitin student guide is available through our database listings. Remember that while Turnitin is a useful tool, developing good research and writing habits is the best way to ensure academic integrity in your work.

Webmaster Tools - Add New Q&A