The University of Southern California (USC) campus library is a vast resource for students, faculty, and staff, offering a wide range of materials, services, and tools to support research and academic success. With its extensive collections, state-of-the-art facilities, and expert librarians, the USC library is an indispensable destination for anyone seeking to explore new ideas, discover new knowledge, and achieve their academic goals. In this article, we will guide you through the process of using the USC campus library, highlighting its key features, services, and tips for making the most of your research experience.
Getting Started with the USC Library
To begin using the USC library, you will need to obtain a USC ID card, which grants you access to the library’s facilities, collections, and services. You can apply for a USC ID card at the USC Card Services office, located in the Student Union building. Once you have your ID card, you can visit the library’s website to explore its various resources, including online databases, e-journals, and digital collections. The library’s website also provides information on library hours, locations, and services, as well as tips for conducting research and citing sources.
Navigating the Library’s Collections
The USC library’s collections are vast and diverse, comprising over 3 million volumes, 30,000 serials, and 300 databases. The library’s online catalog, USC Libraries Search, allows you to search for books, articles, and other materials by keyword, author, title, or subject. You can also browse the library’s shelves, which are organized by subject using the Library of Congress classification system. The library’s collections include a wide range of formats, such as print books, e-books, journals, newspapers, microforms, and audio-visual materials.
| Collection Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Books | Over 3 million volumes, including fiction, non-fiction, and reference works |
| Journals | 30,000 serials, including scholarly journals, newspapers, and magazines |
| Databases | 300 databases, including online indexes, abstracts, and full-text resources |
| Audio-Visual Materials | CDs, DVDs, and streaming media, including music, films, and documentaries |
Using the Library’s Services
The USC library offers a range of services to support your research, including research assistance, instruction, and technology support. The library’s Research Help desk is staffed by expert librarians who can help you find the resources you need, develop your research skills, and cite your sources correctly. The library also offers Instructional Services, including workshops, tutorials, and credit courses, to help you develop your information literacy skills. Additionally, the library provides Technology Support, including computer workstations, scanners, and printers, to help you complete your research projects.
- Research assistance: expert librarians to help you find resources and develop your research skills
- Instructional services: workshops, tutorials, and credit courses to help you develop your information literacy skills
- Technology support: computer workstations, scanners, and printers to help you complete your research projects
Accessing Online Resources
The USC library provides access to a wide range of online resources, including databases, e-journals, and digital collections. To access these resources, you will need to log in to the library’s website using your USC ID and password. Once you have logged in, you can search for online resources by keyword, author, title, or subject using the library’s online catalog. You can also browse the library’s online collections, which include e-books, articles, and other digital materials.
Using Online Databases
The USC library subscribes to over 300 online databases, including JSTOR, EBSCOhost, and ProQuest. These databases provide access to a wide range of online resources, including articles, books, and primary sources. To use these databases, you will need to log in to the library’s website and select the database you want to search. You can then search for resources by keyword, author, title, or subject using the database’s search interface.
| Database | Description |
|---|---|
| JSTOR | A digital library of academic journals, books, and primary sources |
| EBSCOhost | A database of academic journals, magazines, and newspapers |
| ProQuest | A database of academic journals, newspapers, and primary sources |
Conclusion and Future Directions
In conclusion, the USC campus library is a valuable resource for students, faculty, and staff, offering a wide range of materials, services, and tools to support research and academic success. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can make the most of your research experience and achieve your academic goals. As the library continues to evolve and expand its collections and services, it is likely that we will see even more innovative and effective ways to support research and learning in the future.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The library’s hours of operation vary depending on the time of year and the location. You can check the library’s website for the most up-to-date information on hours and locations.
How do I access online resources from off campus?
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To access online resources from off campus, you will need to log in to the library’s website using your USC ID and password. You can then search for online resources by keyword, author, title, or subject using the library’s online catalog.
Can I request materials from other libraries?
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Yes, you can request materials from other libraries through the Interlibrary Loan service. This service allows you to borrow books, articles, and other materials from libraries around the world, making it easier to access the resources you need for your research.
