FARQ: Textbooks?

This is another beginning-of-the-semester frequently asked reference question.  Frugal students always want to know:

Where is the library's textbook section?

Image from Educated Nation | Higher Education blog:
http://www.educatednation.com/2009/07/29/free-money-for-textbooks

This FARQ is loaded with several issues that can complicate the search for a textbook that is used in a particular class, and that a student wants to check out.

• First of all, there is no "textbook section" of the library.  If we own a book that your course happens to be using as a textbook, then it will be shelved by its call number within the library. You can use the bookstore's textbook list to discover books that are required for your course, if you don't have your syllabus handy.  

• The best way to search Addison (the library catalog) may be by using a book's ISBN.  You can find that through the textbook list, and then use Addison's Number Search to see if University Libraries owns the book.

• Sometimes, instructors place books on Reserve.  This means that a book will only circulate briefly (2 hours, or 2 days), giving everyone in the class an opportunity to access it.  You an search for reserve books here.  

• If you are an instructor and would like to place items on reserve, you can use the online reserve request form to begin this procedure.  

A more complete description of how University Libraries can help you track down textbooks is available on our website, published as a piece of Library News on August 13.  

Questions?  As always, just let me know!