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Frequently Asked Questions about the Libraries
Q. How many libraries are there on campus?
A. There are three. The James B. Duke Library serves as the
main library for the University. Specialized libraries include the Maxwell
Music Library and the Ezell Science
Reading Room.
Q. How late is the library open?
A. The main library is open until 1:00 on weeknights and includes a 24 hour study lounge. Complete information on hours for all libraries and library services
is available on the library hours
page.
Q. How many books and journals do the libraries have?
A. The Libraries have over 490,000 volumes, and add about 10,000 more volumes
each year. The Libraries provide access to over 1,300 print journals and 20,000 electronic journals. More complete information is available on the library statistics
page.
Q. What library resources are available online?
A. The library website gives students access to over 100 research
databases in a variety of subject areas. Students can access articles from over 20,000 journals online using the library's Full Text Finder. The library's online catalog, Alcuin can be searched via the web to identify library holdings.
Q. Can I use the library's research databases from my dorm room or from off campus?
A. Yes. Almost all online research databases can be used from any point on campus, including dorms, without passwords. If you are a Furman student or faculty member, you can also log into the campus network remotely to access databases from off campus following these instructions. The library's online catalog, Alcuin, can be
used off campus by anyone with or without a password.
Q. What kinds of computing facilities does the library provide for students?
A. The James B. Duke Library provides over 100 computers for student use in both
general and specialized computer facilities, including the Research Commons, Multimedia
Commons, the Collaboratory for Creative Learning
and Communication, and 24 Hour Study Lounge.
Laptops are available for use
in the library from the Computer Help
Desk on the ground floor. The Music Library provides six computers primarily for
research and adjoins the Music Computer Lab.
Q. Does the university help students use computers and develop computer skills?
A. Yes. Students can always come to the library for research
assistance when they need help searching a database or looking for
other information. In addition, many courses include information fluency
instruction which teaches students how to use specialized online
research tools in the subject. Help and training in the development of multimedia
projects and presentations is available in the Collaboratory for Creative Learning and Communication on the ground of the main library. Help troubleshooting technical problems is available from
the Computer Help Desk.
Q. Do the libraries have interlibrary loan agreements with other libraries?
A. Yes. We can basically get anything from anywhere in a week to ten days,
and interlibrary loan service is free to students. More information is available
on the document delivery
page.
Q. Are jobs available for students in the libraries?
A. Yes, the libraries depend on an excellent team of about 60 student workers. Jobs are available in the libraries and in many other places on campus through the federal work-study program. You can contact the Financial Aid Office or Student Employment Office for details.
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