Library FAQ

How do I find books and articles at the UCSD Libraries?
The Get Started page is a great resource if you need help finding what you need, where to go, and how to get there. You'll learn how to find books, find articles and more.

What if the UCSD Libraries don't have the books and articles I need?
If the UCSD Libraries don't have the book you need, or it's checked out you can use two of our other library catalogs, Circuit and Melvyl, to find what you need. Click here to learn about Circuit and Melvyl.

How do I start my research?
The Get Started page is where you should go if you need help starting your research. It will show you how to search for your topic, find resources for your topic, who to contact if you need additional help and much more.

Can I access all this electronic stuff from off-campus?
Yes you can! You can access the electronic databases and some reserves from off campus and all you need to do is connect your computer to the UCSD Network. Visit the UCSD Network instructions for directions on how to do this.

Can I get a library card to check out books?
Your UCSD ID is your library card. All students must have their ID to check out stuff from the library. Fees are charged for overdue items, but the library will send you a notification when something will be due soon. Click here for more information on library cards.

How do I renew my books?
You can view or renew books you have checked out on Roger under "My Library Account/Renew Items". Go to My Library Acount on the Get Started page for more information.

I received an overdue notice/bill, but I know I returned the item!
If you receive a notice or a bill for an item that has been returned or you believe has been returned, contact the owning library. Click here for contact information .

What are course reserves and where do I find them?
Course reserves are the books and other items a professor can reserve at the library for a class. The Get Started page will show you how to find your reserves. Remember, some reserves can only be checked out for a short amount of time.

Can I use my wireless laptop at the libraries?
All the libraries in the Geisel library building, as well as most UCSD branch libraries are wireless ready. Students, faculty and staff can all access wireless service from their laptops. For more detailed information go to Wireless Connectivity.

Are there computers I can use at the library?
Yes. There are two types of computers at the library:

InfoStations: These computers that only have internet access and are used for research purposes. Anyone can use the computers, and no logon is required. To print from these computers, you much purchase an Imprints copy card from the library Imprints office, or a dispenser. The card, used for both printers and photocopiers, costs $0.50 and it is $0.10 per page to print. More money can be added to the cards as needed. For questions about these computers, please visit the Information Desk in Geisel Library, or any other service desk.

ACS Labs: In addition to InfoStations, there are also ACS computer labs at a few of the libraries. To use these computers, which have MS Office as well as internet access, you must be a UCSD user, and logon with your UCSD Active Directory/E-mail user name and password. To print from these computers, you must have a Laser account, set up through ACS. For more information about ACS Computer Labs, please visit their website.

A few of our individual libraries have some additional computers designated for specific purposes beyond these. If you are looking for something specific, please contact us.

Can I print from the library?
You need a copy card to print at the Libraries' networked printers. You can purchase a copy card from machines at the libraries or at the Imprints window in the Geisel Library. There are directions on each computer at Geisel that tell you how to print on the computer. Color printers are available at the Biomedical and Social Sciences & Humanities Libraries. If you need assistance you can ask for help at the Information Desk.

NEW: Wireless printing now available! If you have a Windows laptop with wireless network access, you can now install software that lets you print via wireless to the libraries' networked printers. Please read our wireless networked printing software page for requirements and instructions.

The ACS labs at Geisel and CLICS use a Laser Printing Account to print. This is a pre-paid account set up through Academic Computing Services. Click here for more information.

What are the libraries' hours?
For the weekly hours for all UCSD Libraries hours go to the libraries' hours page.

Do the libraries hire students?
Yes! The library offers student jobs with flexible hours and great pay. You can find job listings on Port Triton or on the main floor of Geisel library.