Where can I find information on the history of TWU?

The TWU site has a page detailing the history of TWU here: http://www.twu.ca/about/history.aspx, visit the University Archives: http://archives.twu.ca:8080  

How do I access online databases from home?

Click here for information on access from home using the proxy server.

For how long can I take out books?

The standard loan period is 21 days.

How many books can I take out at a time?

Up to 30 items, including up to 6 videos for undergraduate students. Up to 40 items for graduate students and 60 for faculty. 

Can I take reference books out of the library?

No. Reference books may be used only in the Library. 

Do I have to come to the library to renew books?

No. You can renew online at http://webpac.twu.ca/ipac20/ipac.jsp?&profile=twu&menu=account#focus or in most cases by telephone at 604-513-2023.  

How many times may I renew a book?

Usually, you can renew books twice online; If you need the item after 2 renewals, circulation staff will renew material an additional time. Items requested by another user cannot be renewed.

Where can I pay my library fines?

They must be paid by cash or cheque in person at the Checkout counter.

What is the date format in the library catalogue and in My Account?

The format is month/day/year.

What's the difference between reserve books and reference books?

The Reserve collection contains research materials identified by TWU instructors for use in their courses:

• Books
• Articles
• Videotapes
• Course materials

They may be signed out for short periods of time (2 or 8 hours; 2 or 3 days).

Reference books include dictionaries, encyclopedias, directories and bibliographies that are frequently referred to. They are located in the south-west corner of the Main Level and are for in-library use only.

Does the library have e-mail notification?

Yes. If your contact information in your profile is up to date, you will be notified when requested books have arrived, when your books are coming due, etc.

How long do I have to pick up requested books?

We hold them at the Circulation counter for 4 days. 

Where can I return books after hours?

The book drop is by the main Library entrance.

Why are some books classified by numbers only while others have letters and numbers?

TWU uses two forms of classification for books. The main one is Library of Congress (LC) and all the call numbers on these books start with letters. The other system (Dewey Decimal) starts with numbers and is found on books that came into the library from the Northwest Baptist Theological College Library. Dewey books are located at the west end of the upper level. Eventually, all books will be classified by Library of Congress call numbers. 

Do you have books in languages other than English?

Yes. We have a substantial Korean language collection, and some French literature and language textbooks. We also have language-learning texts for a number of European and Asian languages. 

Do you have e-books?

Yes. Click on the TWU eBooks link on the Library home page to view the electronic book collection. Our e-books are also catalogued and will appear in your results when you search the Library catalogue. 

Can more than one person at a time view an e-book?

No. E-books, like print books, may be read by only one person at a time. If you are viewing a book, no one else can view it. However, if you are not actively viewing a book (turning pages, making notes, etc.), you will be logged out after 15 minutes. This will allow another patron to view the book, which may prevent you from viewing it. 

I looked for a book and the computer says it's in Curriculum (upper level). What's that?

The Curriculum Collection contains materials of particular interest to teachers and education students, although anyone may check them out. It's at the east end of the upper level. The call numbers for all Curriculum collection books begin with LT.

Can I make a phone or e-mail request to have books or articles sent from the TWU Library to my location?   

We do not offer this service.  In its place, we recommend that you make use of the COPPUL opportunity.

 Can I ask the TWU Library staff for help if I run into a research problem?  

Certainly.  The best way to do so it through the “Ask a Librarian” link (http://www.twu.ca/library/aal.htm/ ) on the Library Home Page.  Alternatively, you can send a message to a librarian on the Library Contacts List (http://www.twu.ca/library/staff.html) or phone the reference desk in the Library (604-888-7511, ext. 3903).

What if I have a technical problem such as finding myself unable to log in to a database? 

For a description of how to connect to databases from off campus, go to http://www.twu.ca/library/proxy.htm. Or go to https://www1.twu.ca/support to document a technical issue.  Someone will get back to you. 

If I am on campus, can I sign out books from the library? 

Certainly.  Note, however, that regular due dates apply.  While you can renew a book by telephone (604-888-7511, ask for “library circulation”), you are responsible to get it back to us safely and on time. 

What sorts of services can I expect if I use the COPPUL opportunity to get a borrower’s card from another library? 

You are bound by the services and regulations of whatever library you are using.  These vary.  You can check the website http://www.coppul.ca/rb/rbindex.html for a list, if one exists, of services available to you at the university library of your choice.  Remember that you represent TWU as you use other libraries.

How do I find journal articles?

Click on the Articles (Databases) link: http://www.twu.ca/library/perindex.html on the Library home page. Choose the subject area you are researching, choose one of the "Start Here" databases from the list, enter some key words, and search. Click here for a Flash video tutorial on finding journal articles. If you're still having difficulty, stop by the Information Desk where a librarian will be more than willing to help. 

I found an article I want on an online database, how do I get it?

The database will show an icon if it is available online in full text as html or PDF. If it is not available online, click on "Check for availability at TWU". This will show you whether we have it in print, electronically through another database, or in microform. If we don't have it, you can order it through interlibrary loan (ILL) http://www.twu.ca/library/libreq.htm.

The e-journal I want says it has a "12-month embargo". What does this mean?

It means that the electronic versions of the articles are not available for 12 months after their publication date.  

When I try to view a PDF, all I get is a black window in my browser.

Some Mac browsers have isses with PDF files. Go here for work-arounds.

Where are print journals kept?

In the north-west corner of the main level, behind the Information Desk. Click here for a map. Newer journals are on the display shelves. Older issues are bound and on shelves behind the display shelves. All journals are shelved in alphabetical order by title. 

May I check out print journals?

No. Print journals are for in-library use only.

What kinds of study rooms are available?

The library has a number of types of study rooms. Book them at the Reserve counter.

• Group Rooms 1, 2, 3 4 and 5 are for 2-6 occupants
• Group room 4 has a DVD and VCR.  It is for 2-6 occupants (but can hold up to 10 for special cases) .  It is available to any group regardless of whether or not they are using it to view media; however, we prefer to use it for larger groups and groups that need to watch or listen to  media together.
• Study Rooms 7 and 8 are for 1-4 occupants.
• Independent Rooms are for single occupants.
• All the rooms have electrical outlets and all the rooms, except for independent rooms, have whiteboards.

Where can I find a campus map?

Campus maps are available online at http://www.twu.ca/campus/map/ 

Where can I find a map of the Library?

http://www.twu.ca/library/layout.html  

Where can I find the main stacks?

The Lower Level has most of our books (call numbers C-Z). Call numbers A-B (including all the theology books) are at the west (Trinity Lake) end of the Upper Level.

Where are the washrooms in the library?

Where can I find office supplies such as a stapler / hole punch / paper cutter / pencil sharpener?

The copy room on the main level and the photocopy stations on the upper and lower levels have all four. 

The library doesn't have an article/book I want, how can I get it?

Interlibrary Loan allows you to obtain articles and books from other libraries. The service costs $2.00 for articles, and $5.00 for books.

Click here to get started http://www.twu.ca/library/libreq.htm

Where do I get my library card?

Your student ID card is your Library card. Get it from the Office of the Registrar in the Mattson building (A campus map is here). Continuing Education students should go to the Global Learning Centre. Faculty and staff should go to the Front Desk in the Reimer Student Centre. 

Where do I get a barcode for my card?

Barcodes, which will allow you to check out books and log onto some library computers, are available from the Checkout counter. 

I'm a TWU student; can my spouse get a complimentary library card?

No. However, you may check out books for your spouse on your card, or your spouse may apply for a community borrower card. 

Who do I contact if I lose my card?

The Office of the Registrar (in Mattson) will issue a new card. 

Can I get a card for SFU, UBC, or other libraries?

Yes. Get a card called a COPPUL card from the Checkout counter in the library, and take this card and your valid TWU Library card to the other library. You will be allowed to check out materials. What you can check out depends on the policy of the other library. Click on the COPPUL link on the Library home page to view other institutions' COPPUL loan policies. 

I'm a faculty/staff member at TWU. Can my spouse get a library card?

Yes. Faculty and staff spouses are eligible for a complimentary library card. 

I'm a TWU alumnus. Can I get a library card?

Yes. Bring your alumni card to the Checkout counter and you will be issued a card for an annual fee of $15. 

I'm not a TWU student. Can I get a library card?

Yes. Community borrower cards are available for residents of the Lower Mainland and Whatcom County (WA) at the Checkout counter for $60 per year. 

Which library services are available to Alumni and Community Borrowers?

• In-library access to databases
• Interlibrary loan (cost $15 per item)
• Borrow up to 30 items
• Online renewals/requests

Restrictions:

• May not borrow video recordings
• No off-campus access to article databases such as EBSCOHost, ProQuest, etc

May my friend or spouse use my card?

No. For your own security, cards may be used only by the person to whom they were issued.

I'm having trouble logging in to the Library databases. Who should I contact?

Click on this link to report your problem https://www1.twu.ca/support. Someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

How do I log on to the library computers?

• Computers 1-12 on the main level and 23 & 24 on the upper level, require the TWU student login and password you use with your TWU e-mail account.
• Computers 13-15 require a barcode. They are the only computers that can be used by people without a student account (i.e., most alumni, community borrowers, staff, and faculty).

What software is available on the library computers?

All of the public access computers, with the exception of the stand up terminals, have Microsoft Office 2007 (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) installed. Computers 1-12 also have Access 2007, Publisher 2007, SPSS, Photoshop CS4, and Adobe Acrobat 9 installed.

Can I use the library computers for e-mail?

The library computers are primarily for research, but the public access computers allow you to access your TWU web mail account.

Can I save documents to the library computers?

• Yes. On computers 1-12 (main level) and 23, 24 (upper level), you can access your Z: Drive.
• On computers 13-15, to save documents, you need a USB drive/memory stick. If you do not have one, you may borrow one from the Reserve counter.

I have a notebook computer but am not a TWU student. Can I access the internet or library databases?

Yes, but you will need to purchase access. Go here for more information.

How do I print my documents?

Computers 1-12 and 23, 24 send jobs to the printer on the main level by default. Payment comes from funds you transfer to your Paper Cut account. These computers can also send print jobs to the Xerox photocopier/printer on the main level, but you will need a print card to retrieve these jobs. Note: Jobs are printed as soon as they are sent to the default printer.

Computers 13-15 will print only to the Xerox photocopier/printer in the photocopy room on the main level. Payment is by print card only. Send your document to the printer, remember your Workstation ID (it starts with LIBR__) or document name, put your copy card in the print card reader, press the job status button, choose release for the job you wish to print on screen, take your copy card from the reader, and pick up your printing. 

What do I do if the printer takes my money, but doesn't print my document?

For Paper Cut problems (the main printer), contact Dave Friesen davef@twu.ca (604.513.2121 ext 2093) or Joel Schwartz joel.schwartz@twu.ca (604.513.2121 ext 3927) in the computer lab on the lower level of the Neufeld Science Centre between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm.

For the Xerox copier/printer, see the person on duty at the Checkout counter or the librarian at the Information Desk.

Does the library have a colour printer?

No. However, if you have a TWU username and password, you can print in colour from the computers in the computer lab in Neufeld 9.

Can I print from my notebook computer to the library printers?

Unfortunately no. You'll need to e-mail the document as an attachment and open it on a library computer, or transfer it using a flash drive. Note: When transferring documents for printing, it's usually best to save them in PDF format first. This helps to maintain the correct fonts and formatting.

I searched for a journal and the computer said "bindery". What does this mean?

It means it is being bound into a larger volume. It may not be available for a week or two, but check at the Information or Reserve counter to see. 

The Library catalogue says the book I want is "in cataloguing". How do I get it?

Click on the "Request Item" and it will be given priority cataloguing. It should be ready in a couple of days. You can pick it up at the Checkout counter.

The library catalogue says the book I want is "newly acquired". How do I get it?

Click on "Request Item". It will be ready in a couple of days and available for pickup at the Reserve counter. 

How can I get books that are "on order"?

Check back until the record says "newly acquired" or "in cataloguing", and then click "Request Item".  

The catalogue says "recall" next to the book I want. What does this mean?

It means another user has requested the book, so you can't request it. 

The catalogue says "transit request" next to the book I want. What does this mean?

It means another user has requested the book and it is being moved to the Hold shelf. You may request it by bringing the call number to the Checkout counter. 

What are the "main stacks"?

The main stacks are shelves containing materials (books, audio-visual materials, etc.) that may be checked out. They are located on the upper level (Theology, Multimedia, and Curriculum) and the lower level (most other materials).

Where can I watch a video or DVD, or listen to a CD?

The Library has group viewing rooms that can be booked at the Checkout counter. Individual viewing/listening stations are located in the Audiovisual Collection on the Upper Level.

Does the Library have multi-zone DVD players?

No.

How much are copy cards?

They come preloaded with $1, $5, or $10, plus a $1.00 refundable deposit. 

Where can I purchase them?

At the Reserve counter. 

How much does each copy cost?

Approximately $.10 a copy (copies made with $5 and $10 cards are slightly cheaper) 

Do you have any copiers that take coins?

Yes. The copier on the lower level takes coins. 

Where can I get change?

At the Reserve counter. 

How much of a book am I legally allowed to copy?

Up to 10% or one chapter, whichever is greater. See the Copyright Information link on the Library home page.

Does the Library have a scanner?

No, but the copiers on all three levels will scan documents in black and white and send them to your e-mail address. This page has instructions on how to scan and send documents to an e-mail address. You can also ask for help at the Circulation counter. Note that the same copyright restrictions apply to scanned materials as to photocopied materials.

What is RefWorks?

RefWorks is a bibliography management program that can save and format your citations for papers or theses. It also has a downloadable utility called Write-N-Cite that allows you to cite references in Microsoft Word (Windows and Mac) at the click of a button. 

How do I create an account?

Go to the RefWorks link on the Library home page to create a free account. 

Where do I get help with RefWorks?

RefWorks provides online technical support. For more personal help, ask at the Information desk in the library or e-mail us at "Ask a Librarian."

After I graduate, can I still access my RefWorks account at TWU?

No. RefWorks is for current students only. You can, however, subscribe to a RefWorks account for an annual fee. If you want to keep your references, download them in a format that can be imported by bibliographic software such as RefWorks or EndNote

Will librarians proofread my paper?

Librarians are more than happy to help you find resources for your paper and to provide help with bibliographies. They cannot help you write it or proof-read it. For this type of help contact the Writing Centre. 

How do I find theses in the library?

Ask the librarian at the Information Desk to search the offline thesis database for you. Some are also available through the Theses Canada Portal at http://amicus.collectionscanada.ca/s4-bin/Main/AdvSearch?coll=18&l=0&v=1.