Library Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You can search the FAQs, browse them by subject, see collections of FAQs (i.e., different groupings of FAQs for different purposes/audiences), or browse the Very FAQs, below.

Very FAQs

1. When will there be more computers in the library?

ITS is aware of the demand for additional computers in the library.  The library is working with ITS to address this need. We have developed a proposal to enhance the information technology infrastructure in the library. The proposal includes more desk top pc's and additional electric power/data communications ports. It is possible that some of the proposal will be addressed in the 2007/2008 academic year.

2. Does the library have copies of textbooks?

In general, the library does not purchase textbooks.  Exceptions are  made when the title is considered a classic by experts in the field, or it treats an important area not otherwise represented in the collection, or it was written by an Ithaca College faculty member. Textbooks currently in use in the curriculum are not generally purchased.

3. How do I find an item on reserve/electronic reserve?

  1. Click on Reserves from the library's homepage.
  2. Using the drop down menu, select either your professor's name or course number; click Search.
  3. Now, click on the title of the reading.
  4. Bring the call number to the Circulation Desk if checking out the item, or click on the electronic reserve link to view on-line.

4. How do I find an online general dictionary, encyclopedia, or thesaurus?

Check out our virtual reference desk

5. How do I get into my Novell account for the first time?

Once their email account is activated, students can go to any lab computer and enter their email user name and the Last 6 digits of their College ID NOT their Social Security number as the password. To change the password, Control-Alt-Delete and select Change Password. If the Novell log in fails, the student will have to go to the ITS help desk.

6. How do I get permission to film or take photographs in the Library?

7. How do I order an item on Interlibrary Loan?

8. How do I receive a refund for money lost in a vending machine?

Go to the IC Services desk in the union (307B) fill out a form, and you will receive a refund.

9. How do I request a search for an item that should be available but is not on the shelf?

10. How long does it take to receive a journal article or book on interlibrary loan from another library?

Articles take anywhere from 1 day to 3 weeks depending on how obscure the item is and how many libraries own the journal title.

Books take anywhere from 3 days to 3 weeks, for the same reasons.

For an idea of how many libraries own an item, do a search in the Worldcat database and click on the "Libraries world wide that own item" link.

11. Is color printing available on campus?

Yes, at General Services. Students can bring their file down on a CD or flash drive, or they can e-mail their file to copyit@ithaca.edu. The files can be printed while the student waits.

12. What software is available on the library pc's and laptops?

The library pc's and laptops have the standard lab image for the College.  To find Campus locations for specialized such as Adobe's Indesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator see the College's specialized software list

13. Where are the Rod Serling scripts such as those for Twilight Zone, housed?

The College Archives houses Serling television scripts, movie screenplays, stage play scripts, films, published works, unproduced scripts, and secondary materials. Consult the Archives site for more information.

14. Wireless Laptops. How do I connect to the Wireless network using a college owned laptop?