The Central Washington University (CWU) Library is a comprehensive resource center that provides students, faculty, and staff with access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and other educational materials. The library's primary goal is to support the academic and research needs of the CWU community. In this article, we will delve into the inner workings of the CWU Library and provide guidance on how to find books and other resources.
Overview of CWU Library Services
The CWU Library offers a wide range of services, including research assistance, instruction, and access to various resources. The library’s collections include over 500,000 printed books, 300,000 e-books, and 60,000 online journals. Additionally, the library provides access to numerous databases, including EBSCOhost, JSTOR, and ProQuest. These resources can be accessed both on and off campus, allowing students to conduct research and complete assignments from anywhere.
Searching for Books in the CWU Library Catalog
To find books in the CWU Library, students can use the library’s online catalog, which is available on the library’s website. The catalog allows users to search for books by title, author, subject, or keyword. Students can also use the Advanced Search feature to narrow down their search results by factors such as publication date, format, and language. Once a book is located, students can view its availability, location, and call number, which will help them find the book on the shelf.
| Search Type | Search Tips |
|---|---|
| Keyword Search | Use relevant keywords related to the topic, and combine them using AND, OR, or NOT |
| Author Search | Use the author's last name first, and include the first name if necessary |
| Subject Search | Use specific subject headings, such as "psychology" or "biology" |
Accessing E-Books and Online Resources
In addition to print books, the CWU Library also provides access to a vast collection of e-books and online resources. Students can access these resources through the library’s website, using their CWU username and password. The library’s e-book collection includes titles from major publishers, as well as open-access resources. Students can also use the library’s Interlibrary Loan service to request books and articles that are not available in the library’s collection.
Using the CWU Library’s Research Guides
The CWU Library’s Research Guides are a valuable resource for students, providing subject-specific guidance on finding and using relevant resources. The guides are created by librarians and are tailored to specific courses, subjects, or topics. Students can use the guides to find relevant books, articles, and databases, as well as tips on conducting research and evaluating sources.
- Use the Research Guides to find subject-specific resources and databases
- Consult with a librarian for personalized research assistance
- Use the library's Citation Tools to format citations and bibliographies
How do I access the CWU Library’s online resources?
+To access the CWU Library’s online resources, students can use their CWU username and password. They can log in to the library’s website and access various databases, e-books, and other resources.
Can I request books that are not available in the CWU Library’s collection?
+Yes, students can use the library’s Interlibrary Loan service to request books and articles that are not available in the library’s collection. The library will borrow the item from another library and make it available for pickup.
How do I get research assistance from a librarian?
+Students can consult with a librarian in person, by phone, or via email. They can also use the library’s online chat service to get research assistance. Librarians are available to provide guidance on finding resources, evaluating sources, and conducting research.
