The University of Toronto (U of T) library system is one of the largest and most comprehensive in North America, offering a vast array of resources to support academic success. With over 40 libraries across three campuses, students, faculty, and staff have access to an extensive collection of materials, including books, journals, databases, and digital resources. In this article, we will explore the various U of T library resources available, providing tips and strategies for finding what you need to excel in your academic pursuits.
Overview of U of T Library Resources
The U of T library system is comprised of several libraries, each with its unique collection and specializations. The Robarts Library, located on the St. George campus, is the largest library and serves as the main humanities and social sciences library. The Gerstein Science Information Centre, also on the St. George campus, is a major science library, while the University of Toronto Mississauga Library and the University of Toronto Scarborough Library serve the respective campuses. Additionally, there are several specialized libraries, such as the Engineering and Computer Science Library, the Music Library, and the Law Library, catering to specific disciplines.
Searching the Catalogue
To find resources, students can use the U of T Library Catalogue, a powerful search tool that allows users to discover materials across all libraries. The catalogue can be searched by title, author, subject, or keyword, and results can be filtered by location, material type, and availability. It is essential to use Boolean operators and wildcard characters to refine searches and obtain more precise results. For example, using quotes to search for an exact phrase or employing the asterisk symbol to truncate words can help narrow down search results.
| Search Type | Example | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Keyword Search | "sustainability in business" | Books, articles, and other materials containing the phrase |
| Author Search | John Smith | Works written by John Smith |
| Subject Search | Renewable Energy | Materials categorized under the subject of Renewable Energy |
Databases and Digital Resources
In addition to the library catalogue, the U of T library system provides access to a vast array of databases and digital resources. These resources include academic journals, e-books, datasets, and streaming services, catering to various disciplines and research needs. Some notable databases and resources include JSTOR, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest, which offer extensive collections of scholarly articles, conference papers, and book chapters. The library also subscribes to various digital repositories, such as the U of T Research Repository, which provides access to research outputs, including theses, dissertations, and research articles.
Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery
In cases where materials are not available within the U of T library system, students can use the Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service to borrow materials from other libraries. This service allows users to request books, articles, and other materials that are not available locally. Additionally, the Document Delivery service provides access to digital copies of articles and book chapters that are not available in print or online through the library’s subscriptions.
What is the U of T Library Catalogue, and how do I use it?
+The U of T Library Catalogue is a search tool that allows users to discover materials across all libraries. To use it, simply enter your search terms, and filter the results by location, material type, and availability.
How do I access databases and digital resources?
+To access databases and digital resources, simply log in to the U of T library website using your UTORid and password. You can then browse the various databases and resources available, or search for specific materials using the catalogue or database search tools.
What is Interlibrary Loan, and how do I use it?
+Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a service that allows users to borrow materials from other libraries. To use it, simply log in to the U of T library website, and submit a request for the material you need. The library will then attempt to borrow the material from another library, and notify you when it is available for pickup.
