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.

1. Does the library have copies of textbooks?

At the beginning of every semester, the staff at the Circulation Desk and the Research Help Desk respond to many inquiries about textbooks.

Rumor has it that:
1)  the library has textbooks that can be checked out for the semester,

2)  textbooks for every class are in the library's collection

3)  faculty put copies of every required text on reserve for student use

As a general rule, the Library does not collect textbooks for courses offered at the College.  This is not because we are trying to make students' lives more difficult.
 
The Facts:

During the 2008/2009 academic year, there were approximately 2800 undergraduate and 450 graduate courses taught at IC.  Using 3 texts as the average required for each course, this equals 9753 books.

In the same academic year, the Library budget allowed for the purchase approximately 6,100 new books to support the current research needs of every department and program on campus.  We simply do not have the funds to purchase current textbooks, while at the same time supporting student and faculty research needs.

Suggested options:

Ask your professor if she/he has a copy of the textbook that can be placed on reserve in the library.

To see what is on reserve for a course, search the online reserve system by your professor's last name and/or your course number.

Please consult with the IC Bookstore for information on purchasing textbooks for your classes.

The library cannot borrow required course textbooks via Interlibrary Loan.

Sometimes a text used in a class is available in the library collection. Check the online catalog by author or title.

Rental Services that allow students to rent textbooks at a reduced price::
Chegg i

BookRenter.com

Skoobit.com

CampusBookRentals.com

Other sites:

Campus Book Swap is an online bulletin board, helping students to buy and sell used textbooks.

www.campusbooks.com/ also supports buying and selling of textbooks.

2. How do I access the library's databases and other services from outside the library?

For tips on accessing library resources and services from off-campus and residence halls, see the Library's Page on this topic.

If you are experiencing access problems see the technology tips webpage.

3. How do I get into my Novell account for the first time? How do I change my novell password?

First, activate your IC email at
https://web2.ithaca.edu/passwords/?action=student_activate
You will need your Homer Connect User ID and PIN number given to you by the Registrar's Office.

Next,  go to any networked computer.  Enter your email user name and the Last 6 digits of your College ID as the password.

To change the password, press Control-Alt-Delete and select Change Password.

If the Novell log in fails, you will need to contact the ITS Help Desk at (607) 274-3282 or helpdesk@ithaca.edu

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

Filming in the Library Policy (pdf)

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

6. 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.

7. I have the call number for a library resource, how do I find it in the library?

IC library resources are located as follows:

  • General Stacks - Call Number begins A-HA (4th floor)
  • General Stacks  - Call Number begins HB-Z, Oversize and Folio (5th floor)
  • Music Stacks and Music Reference - Call Number begins M (3rd floor)
  • Reference Stacks  - Call Number begins Ref. (Main Floor)
  • Archives - (5th Floor)
  • Multimedia - (3rd Floor)
  • Current Periodicals - (3rd Floor)
  • Bound Volumes of Periodicals - (4th Floor)
  • Microfiche, Microfilm, Ultrafiche (Main Floor)

IC Library Floor Maps  - note the Fifth floor is accessible via the elevator and the side staircases.

How to read a call number: The IC Guide  or the University System of Georgia Guide 

 

8. I need help with creating citations for my research paper.

 Please see the Writing and Citing guide for help with MLA, APA, and other formats.

9. Is color printing and laminating available on campus?

General Services, in the Public Safety/General Services Building (open M-F 8am-4 pm) provides these services. You can bring your file on a CD or flash drive, or e-mail the file to copyit@ithaca.edu. The files can also be printed while the you wait. General Services provides other services, as well.   They accept payment in cash, checks or ID Express.

10. What software is available on the library PCs and laptops?

The library PCs 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

11. Where can I find out if the library provides full-text access to a journal or newspaper?

 Click on the "Journal Titles" lnk in the top left corner of the Library's webpage.  You can search by exact title or keywords in the title.