Welcome Back Library FAQ
With the start of a new academic year, there is a good chance you might have some questions about the Library.
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Library. If you don't see your question answered below, check out our online FAQ at tiny.cc/LibraryFAQ (opens in a new tab).
Q1: WHEN IS THE LIBRARY OPEN?
A: During the Fall semester the Library's hours will generally be as follows:
- Monday-Thursday - 7:45am-11:30pm
- Friday - 7:45am-5pm
- Saturday - 12-5pm
- Sunday - 1-11:30pm
Please note that hours may vary due to holidays & weather. Check our at tiny.cc/LibraryHours (opens in a new tab)
Q2: HOW DO I FIND LIBRARY RESOURCES?
A: The short answer is the Library's website located at www.fitchburgstate.edu/library Think of the Library website as your portal for all things research! There are several search tools accessible through the Library website, such as FalconSearch and over 200 Library databases. With these tools you can access thousands of articles, books and more!
We recommend that you bookmark this page or save this website in your browser of choice! Be sure to check out the list of Quick Links that provide access to many services, such as Study Room reservations and Interlibrary Loan.
Q3: WHERE ARE THE COMPUTERS AND PRINTERS LOCATED?
A: Most computers, as well, as printers (with scanning, copying, & FAX) are located on the 1st floor. Use your OneCard to print. Your card is preloaded with $20/semester for printing.
The Library also has Chromebooks available to borrow! Stop by the Front Desk at the front of the Library to check one out!
Q4: DO I HAVE TO BE QUIET IN THE LIBRARY?
A: The Library has 4 floors. The 1st & 2nd floors are more active spaces, so they tend to be louder. They are a great place to do group work!
The 3rd and 4th floors are designated as Quiet Floors. Please refrain from using phones, keep headphone volume low, and limit conversation.
Q5: DOES THE LIBRARY HAVE RESERVABLE SPACES FOR ME TO USE?
A: Yes! The Library has a mix of study rooms, study pods, and a media room that can be reserved.
To reserve a room online, click the Book a Study Room Quick Link (opens in a new tab) on the Library's website
If you need help or have questions about reserving a space stop by the Front Desk, we are happy to help you!
Q6: HOW DO I BORROW ITEMS FROM THE LIBRARY?
A: Books, technology, and other items can all be checked out using your OneCard at the Front Desk.
Q7: WHERE ARE THE PRINT BOOKS LOCATED?
A: Most books in our General Collection are located on the 3rd and 4th floors. They are organized by subject area with the call number on the spine providing a sort of "address". Call numbers starting with A-F are located on the 3rd floor, while G-Z are on the 4th floor.
We also have a Children's and Young Adult Literature collection located on the 3rd floor.
Finally, on the 1st floor you can find our Nook Collection of popular reading, as well as our newly expanded Comic & Graphic Novel collection, and our newest books, as well as a various rotating book displays at the front entrance.
If you are not sure where to find a book or other resource, just ask us! We are happy to help!
Q8: DOES THE LIBRARY HAVE TECHNOLOGY I CAN BORROW?
A: Yes! The Library has a growing collection of tech items and equipment available for checkout.
Browse our selection by clicking the Tech Lending Library Quick Link (opens in a new tab) on the Library website. Stop by the Front Desk to check out an item using your OneCard.
Q9: WHERE DO I FIND A BOOK FOR MY CLASS THAT IS "ON RESERVE"?
A: When a book (or other item) is "on reserve" it means that you can access it through the Library.
For books this means they are either print books that we have set aside for your class in the Library or they are digitized and can be accessed online.
To find the books for your class, click the Course Reserves Tab on the Library website (opens in a new tab). From there you can search by the professor's name, Course number, book title or book author name.
***PLEASE NOTE: Many course reserves, including some digital reserves, have a check out time limit (often 2 hours) to help ensure that the book is available to everyone in your class. If no one is waiting for the book after you, this can often be extended.
Q10: WHAT IF THE LIBRARY DOESN'T HAVE WHAT I NEED?
A: You can get access to most books and articles through our Interlibrary Loan (ILL) services. Just click the Interlibrary Loan Quick Link on the Library website to start the process.
Q11: HOW DO I GET RESEARCH HELP?
A: Our librarians are always happy to help you with your research questions! There are 4 ways to get assistance:
- Research Help Desk - in person, walk up help is available at the Library.
- No appointment needed.
- A librarian is usually available Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm, Friday 9am-3pm, and Sunday 1-8pm.
- 24/7 Online Research Help Chat - use the chat box located on the lower right side of the Library website homepage
- Research Appointment - click the "Meet with a Librarian" link (opens in a new tab) under the chat box on the homepage
- Email at reference@fitchburgstate.edu
Q12: HOW CAN I KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY?
A: You can get the latest news from the Library by following any of our social media platforms.