Top 10 Things to Know About the LCU Library

Research takes time.  Come when you are able to stay awhile.

Feel intimidated by the research process?  Book time with a librarian to learn the process and primary sources.  Your teacher may have planned an instruction session for your class to assist  you, also.

Ask for help!  Student assistants will help you locate books and citations.  Librarians and staff will assist your search for sources.

Bring your assignment with you to the library so you have complete information to locate authors or titles.  Bring pencil and paper, also.

To find articles, use an index or online database for the subject you need to locate the journal with articles on your topic.  The online catalog lists periodical titles.  Holdings are listed at the bottom of the full entry.  Periodical locations are: current print, back issues on 4th floor, microfiche or microfilm.  Microfilm and fiche copies are 10 cents - bring change for the machines.

To find books, use the online catalog searching by keyword, author, title, subject or series.  Keyword search is 1-2 words or a "phrase."  Subject is a focused defined search using Library of Congress subject headings.  Extend your checkout period using "My Account" and your ID#.

Know your ABCs and 123s.  The Library of Congress (LC) classification system call numbers are read alphabetical, whole numbers, alphabetical, decimal and then by date, volume and copy.  LC classification locates similar topics together, such as author's work, biography and criticism.  Locate your research area and browse the books' index or tables of content. 

Have your student ID for book or reserve checkout.

Need a quiet place to study?  Upstairs in the book stacks is the quietest area or in the elevator alcove.

Need copies or computer printouts?  Enter your copy code or log-in to LCUnet to access your technology printing account.