Get ready for reading!

Go beyond browsing and get laser-focused for your first assignment.

It’s time to hit the books, which is much easier said than done when there are miles of monographs and endless online resources. Here is a quick guide to using the library online to find exactly what you need to read.

Unlimited access with online reading lists

Check your reading lists in your module areas in Minerva. We’ve put links to your reading, whether they are ebooks or physical books. You might also find we’ve digitised sections of key texts for you. If a book is on the shelf, the link will take you to the item record in Library Search. You’ll see which library it is in and its shelfmark – and you can use the locate button to help you find it. It might be confusing at first, so just ask a member of staff wearing a lanyard for help – that’s what we’re here for!

Discover more...

There is no way around it, you will have to use Library Search if you want to get anything done. Whether you know what item you’re looking for or you’re just researching for an assignment, watch this video for pro tips on finding what you need.

You may need to use your login details to get access to journals. Our Search Help guides will help you to get the most out of Library Search.

The must-use referencing resource

While you’re searching for texts, it’s a good opportunity to learn more about EndNote. EndNote is a tool you can use to keep track of and format your references and bibliographies for any essay you’re writing.

Once again, your trusty student login will give you access. It’s also integrated with Library Search. This means you can easily send any references you need to your account, maintaining your academic integrity and streamlining some annoying admin.

But if you just simply love books...

You can borrow up to 50 books at a time with your student ID card. You can keep items for 7 days and your loan automatically renews unless your book is requested by another student. Then you have a week to return it.

You can return books to any library using the self-service machines, or if they are closed, post it through the return slots at Laidlaw. Remember, you might make someone’s day by returning books as soon as you are done with them.

If someone has a book that you need, request it using the button in the item record – you’ll need to sign in to Library Search to see the button.