FAQs

• Do I need permission to use something I found on a website within my course LMS (BlackBoard, etc.)?

  Always assume that material on a website is copyrighted, unless it is specifically labeled copyright-free. Use of a limited portion of the copyrighted material for your course LMS is appropriate if it also meets the fair use guidelines. You should also attribute the source. If you continue to use the same Web resource in subsequent semesters, permission should be requested. It may be that the web material is licensed by the NYU Libraries and therefore can be used under specified conditions. (Use the Article Linker on the Library website). For posting items on NYU Blogs please see terms of use document. Blogs Terms of USE.

• After graduation, will I have any library privileges?

  Upon presentation of a valid NYU Alumni membership card, an individual will be allowed access for reading privileges (no checkout) for three visits. Thereafter, to acquire library privileges, alumni may join
  Friends of Bobst Library
  at a reduced rate.

• As a Stern faculty member, how can I get Blackboard help?

  Visit the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL).

• BobCat says a book I need is "In Processing." What does that mean, and how can I get it?

  "In Processing" means the book is here at Bobst, but not yet ready to be placed on the shelves. If you need a book that is "In Processing," place a recall on it in BobCat (for instructions, please visit Online Recalls and Offsite Storage Requests), and you will be emailed when the book is available. This process usually only takes a few days.

• Can groups of users assign and edit BobCat tags?

  Technically, no; this can only be done from an individual user account

• Can I add an e-book link to Blackboard?

  Yes, you can get e-book links to add to course pages. To get a link:

  1. Search BobCat to see if we have the e-book
  
  
  2. In BobCat, click on the "Available(GetIt)" link, or the Check for Availability link. If the book is available electronically, it will be noted in the "Electronic Version via:" section of the page
  
  
  3. On the top right of this page (before you click through to access the e-book) you'll see a URL.
  
  
  4. Copy and paste this URL into your Blackboard course page for your students to access. This link will allow them to access the e-book on or off-campus
  
  
  
  

• Can I add or embed subject collections in my course pages for my students to search?

  You are able to embed subject categories in the Arch into any page that allows you to embed HTML code.
  To embed a subject:
  

  
  
  1. 
     Click on the subject link you'd like to embed
  
  
  2. On the right information bar, you'll see linkable the text "embed subject." Select that link.
  
  
  3. The subsequent page allows you to select options for display of the subject, under the "Display Options" header. These include: show title, show search box, show databases, show specific section, and include CSS. Do not include CSS, but you can choose to display the rest of the subject you're embedding with any of the other options.
  
  
  4. Under display options you'll see an "Include Options" heading. This section provides you with three options: server-side include url, Javascript widget, or HTML source. We recommend you use the first option-server-side include url.
  
  
  5. Copy and paste the url and embed it into any page that allows you to include code.
  
  

• Can I borrow videos and CDs from the Library for use in my classes? How can I schedule viewings in the Library for groups of students?

  The Avery Fisher Center for Music and Media on the 2nd floor of Bobst Library provides previewing facilities for faculty. Faculty may also arrange for
  
  group viewing
  
  for up to 12 students in AFC. Videos and CDs may also be placed
  
  on reserve
  
  in AFC for individual viewing. Videos and CDs do not circulate; however, faculty may arrange for
  
  special loans
  
  of 24 hours for videos and one week for CDs. To make sure your video or CD is available, we suggest you contact the AFC at least one day in advance.

• Can I bring a guest into Bobst library?

  NYU students, faculty and staff may accompany a limited number of guests to the library. See Visitor polices for specific details.

• Can I bring food or drink into the library?

  Foods and liquids that come into contact with books cause staining and damage. Crumbs and spills can attract rodents and insects, as well as damage computer equipment. Therefore, drinks are allowed, provided they are kept in covered containers. Eating is only allowed in the Lower Level 1 snack lounge. We ask everyone's cooperation in our efforts to preserve the library's collection.

• Can I bring my laptop into Bobst and get access to the internet?

  Yes. For more information visit Computer and Laptop Services.

• Can I place an entire book, journal, video or CD on my course web page?

  Use of an entire book, journal, video or CD is not within the principles of fair use, unless it is in the public domain or part of the the Library's licensed resources. Otherwise, faculty members must obtain copyright permissions from the publisher in order to include a complete work on Blackboard, or another password-protected course web page. As an alternative, the library will place books, videos, DVDs and CDs on reserve at the library for course use.
  

• Can I print or photocopy or scan a document at Bobst?

  Yes. For more information see Printing, Photocopying & Imaging Services.

• Can I save citations I've found searching databases?

  Yes you can save citations you've found searching databases for articles.

  
  If you're searching from the Articles & Databases page, you can save individual article citations from those databases that are federated (that you can search simultaneously). You can tell which these are because they will automatically be checked upon accessing a category.

  
  To save Records:
  

  
  
  1. Search and find results
  
  
  2. Click on the "save this record" link and the text will change to "record saved" and the option of labeling your item will appear.
  
  
  3. Your saved records are stored in the "Save this Record" section of The Arch, on the right of the screen. You can export these records to RefWorks, EndNote, Zotero, or you can email them to yourself.
  
  

• Can I save my own set of databases to search?

  You can create your own collection of databases by searching for individual database titles using the search box, and adding them to your collection.

  
  To add databases:
  
  1.Click on the "add databases and edit" link upon entering the "My Saved Databases" section of The Arch
  
  2.Click on the "add databases" link and a search box will appear, prompting you to search for databases by name
  
  3.Add databases by clicking on the green icon beside each database name
  
  4.Once you've added the databases you've chosen for your collection, you can choose to make your collection public or private. The default for each collection is public but you can click on the private link to make it visible only to you. If you choose to make your collection public a URL will be generated for you
  
  5.Select the "I'm done editing" link and you'll see your collection of databases. To remove-click the red x box beside each database. To name the collection, enter the collection name in the "change collection name" box above your collection
  
  

• Can I save records of items found in BobCat?

  Yes, on the GetIt screen you'll see the heading "Export Tool," under which options to Export to RefWorks, Send to Phone, or Email appear. Each of these options will allow you to save the records you've found.

• Can I scan or copy an article found in a printed journal in the Library and post it on my course LMS (BlackBoard, etc.)?

  Before going to the trouble of scanning a print article, make sure it is not available from the Library in digital form. [Use the Article Linker on the Library website] If the article is not available electronically, you may post the article to the course LMS (Blackboard etc) for a limited amount of time. If you wish to use the article repeatedly as reading for the class, you should seek permission.

• Can I search BobCat using Arabic, Chinese, Hebrew, Japanese, and Korean script?

  Yes. This is the first time we have been able to do this in BobCat, and we are still working on improving various aspects of this function. But there are some important things you need to know about the results you get when you search BobCat using these scripts. Most important, some non-Roman resources in the library do not have script in their BobCat records, so a search using script may not find every single non-Roman resource containing your search term. Always double-check your results by redoing your search using transcribed Romanization (for example, type nihon for 日本), the way you have always had to in BobCat.

• Can I search by call number in BobCat?

  You can search by call number in the new BobCat. You must use spaces in between a number and a letter where a dot is lacking, but no spaces in between dots and letters or dots and numbers.
  For example, QC981. 8. C5 G38 2008 should be key in exactly so: QC981.8.C5 G38 2008 (i.e., space b/n 5 and G, and b/n 8 and 2, only). Capitalization of letters doesn't matter. And, because call numbers are generally unique, you can usually find the right record in one shot by searching it anywhere in the record.

• Can I use Bobst materials if I'm not a member of the NYU community?

  Researchers and scholars not affiliated with New York University, may utilize the library's collections on site under certain conditions.

• Can I use computers at Bobst to do word processing?

  Yes. Computers for word processing are available on Lower Levels 1 & 2. For more information see Computer availability at Bobst Library.

• Do you have a copy or scanning service?

  No, we have photocopy machines, which are self-service.

• Does Bobst support Endnote, ProCite, and RefWorks bibliographic management software?

  Yes. For more information, visit Bibliographic Management Software.

• Does the "course reserves" tab in BobCat include electronic reserves material?

  Yes, you may link to electronic reserves material directly from Bobcat records.

• How are BobCat tags different from bookmarks and favorites in my browser?

  Think of BobCat Tags an an enhanced version of your bookmarks but with these differences:** Tags are available from any computer that connects to BobCat, unlike personal bookmarks which reside on only one computer
  Tagging is a social discovery system: You can see what Tags other users have added, and you can contribute your own Tags to the community pool.

• How can I create a link to the GetIt window? I'd like to use it on my BlackBoard course page.

  A permanent link to the GetIt screen appears in the upper right corner of the GetIt window. Example: URL: http://getit.library.nyu.edu/go/xxxx

• How can I find out what services are offered at the library to foreign students?

  Visit the studying abroad page or contact the undergraduate librarian.

• How can I get help with print and electronic course reserves?

  Visit the Course Reserves page, or contact Reserves via phone at 212-998-2475, or via email at: bobst.reserve.library@nyu.edu.

• How can I renew books from home?

  Visit
  Renew items now! You may also access online renewals by connecting to
  BobCat and selecting the patron functions button.

• How can I search only for material at a consortium library, such as the New York Historical Society?

  In order to search for material at a specific institution, it is necessary to access Bobcat via that institution's website. For example, to search for material at the New York Historical Society, go to http://www.nyhistory.org, then follow the link to the library, then to "catalogs and finding aids," in order to access the NYHS Bobcat interface. This is true for The New School, Cooper Union, and all of the other consortium libraries. You can find links to the consortium libraries' websites here

• How can I speak to a subject specialist about my research question or project?

  Visit our list of subject specialists.

• How can I suggest a title or recommend that the library purchase a book for Bobst's collection?

  Submit a Library Recommendation form to make collections recommendations.

• How can NYU Libraries help faculty utilize Blackboard?

  Many library resources, including content from e-journals, digitial images, chapters from e-books, and audio and video files, may be linked to Blackboard pages. Students and faculty can utilize the library's vast collection of licensed electronic resources within Blackboard's online course environment.

  
  Visit the Faculty Services page for more information

• How do I access Muse, JSTOR, ebrary, Books24x7 and other full-text collections?

  Searchable collections of electronic resources are available through
  Find Articles Via Databases.

• How do I check a book out of the library?

  Authorized borrowers check out books at the circulation desk on the first floor. For more information, visit
  Borrowing Policies.

• How do I cite journal articles in my paper?

  Visit the Bibliography & Footnote Style Guide.

• How do I connect to the databases if I live off-campus? Do I need a password?

  To get to the Library's subscription databases, e-journals and e-books when you are off-campus, you will automatically be asked to log in to the NYU EZProxy Server using your NYU NetID and password.

• How do I create a Refworks account?

  Access Refworks from the Articles via Databases section of the libraries website. Refworks is listed among the "popular databases." From the login page, follow the link that says "new to Refworks?" and sign up for an individual account."

  
  For help using RefWorks, see the RefWorks Guide
  

• How do I edit or delete a BobCat tag?

  You must be signed in to My Library Account.

  -Open the link, Tags (upper right bar of BobCat screen).
  -Check the box, My Tags Only.
  -Open the link for the Tag you want to edit or delete.
  -Open the link, View Details.
  -Under Tagging (center right) open the link, Assign/remove tags.
  -Edit the Tag inside the oblong box, or uncheck the Tag on the list to de-link it from the item.
  -To edit or delete a Tag from multiple items, repeat the steps above for each item.

• How do I email multiple records to myself?

  To email an individual record: From within the item record, go to the "Keeping This Item" area, and click on Email.
  
  To email multiple records at one time: From your results list, select the items that you would like to email. These will be saved to your e-Shelf. You can then go to your e-Shelf, select your items, and export to print, email, EndNote Web or RefWorks.
  

• How do I export citations to RefWorks and other citation management tools?

  To export an individual record: From within the item record, go to the "Keeping This Item" area, and select RefWorks or EndNote Web from the pull-down menu.
  
  
  To export multiple records at a time:
  
  From your results list, select the items that you would like to export. These will be saved to your e-Shelf. You can then go to your e-Shelf and export records to RefWorks or EndNote Web.
  
  
  

• How do I find a dissertation?

  Visit Finding Doctoral Dissertations.

• How do I find an e-book in BobCat?

  After performing a search, you'll see a list of categories to the right of the search results. If we have electronic copies of the item, there will be a link to "online resources." Click on this link to access the e-book.
  
  If a book is available electronically, users can simply click the "Online Access (GetIt)" button. The book will open up in a new window.
  

• How do I find audio in BobCat?

  
  
  1. Go to BobCat
  
  
  2. Limit to: audio and enter in your search terms
  
  
  3. Your results will include only audio recordings
  
  

• How do I find books in BobCat?

  This brief video gives you an overview of how to find books in BobCat:
  How to find a book (flash video file)

• How do I find out if the library has a specific book or journal?

  Use the Bobcat catalog to search by book title or journal title.

• How do I find videos in BobCat?

  
  
  1. Go to BobCat:
  
  
  2. Limit to video and enter in your search terms:
  
  
  3. Your results will include only videos:

• How do I get more help?

  For additional assistance with questions and research:
  
  
  -Ask a Librarian in person, via phone, email, IM, or text message.
  
  -Take a class
  
  -Watch a quick instructional movie on using BobCat
  
  

• How do I get started creating a Blackboard course?

  If you are new to Blackboard, Information Technology Services (ITS) can help you set up an account and create your Blackboard course shell. The ITS website also includes descriptive information and online tutorials.

• How do I get the item I want when it says it's On the Shelf?

  Confirm the location of your item. For a complete list of all locations and their addresses, click on the "Location" link in BobCat. Make note of the call number, and go to the floor of the library on which your book is shelved.
  
  For the complete Bobst Call Number Location Guide, click on the title "Call Number" in BobCat. If you cannot find the book, check the book sorting room where most of the time you will find a staff person who will give additional assistance.
  

• How do I request permission to film or take photographs in Bobst Library?

  Please complete the Film Request Form [PDF].

• How do I save searches?

  In order to save searches, you'll need to sign into your e-Shelf . Once you have signed into your e-Shelf, conduct your search. You'll then see an option to "Save Query" in the upper-right hand area of the results screen. You'll then be given an option to Save your search so that you can run it again at a later time, or create an alert. If you create an alert, you'll periodically receive emails containing updated search results.

• How do I search BobCat?

  See BobCat Tutorials. Remember, the BobCat catalog has much more than books -- it searches for music, government documents, electronic journals, children's literature, and many other items.

• How do I search for a specific BobCat tag?

  Method 1:
  

  • Open the link, Tags (upper right bar of BobCat screen).
  
  
  • Enter one or more keywords in the box under Search Tags.
    
    You will only get a result if a Tag containing your keyword(s) has already been assigned.
  
  Method 2
  
  • 
    In the tile, Search for (upper left of the BobCat screen), in the third drop-down after Limit to:, change "Anywhere in record" to "In user tags."
  
  
  • Enter one or more keywords in the box above.
  
  
  • You will only get a result if a Tag containing your keyword(s) has already been assigned
  
  

• How do I search for music scores in BobCat?

  
  
  1. Go to BobCat:
     
  
  
  
  2. Limit to: score and enter in your search terms
  
  
  3. Your results will include only scores
  
  

• How do I search the catalog by title?

  Type the title into the search blank, and choose "in the title" from the third dropdown menu below it. Click the "Go" button.

• How do I see everybody's BobCat tags?

  Open the link, Tags (upper right bar of the BobCat screen). Tags then display in two ways:* *Most Recent: The number inside the parentheses represents the number of items users have attached to the Tag. The date and time of the most recent addition shows at the right.

  
  Most Popular: This has two display choices:

  
  List: Arranged from the top down in order of popularity.

  
  Cloud: The size of the text reflects the relative popularity of each Tag.
  

• How do I see my own BobCat tags?

  Sign in to My Library Account Open the link, Tags (upper right bar of the BobCat screen).
  Check the box, My Tags Only.

• How do I share a RefWorks folder?

  Within the "Folders" menu in RefWorks, select the option to "share folder." You will see a complete list of your folders, with adjacent buttons that each say "share folder." Simply click the "share folder" button to a generate a URL that you can email to students or copy and paste into Blackboard as an external link.
  

• How do I use the "send to phone" option available on the screen you access when you click the "GetIt" button?

  On the availability screen (GetIt) there is an option to send to phone. If you have a cellular phone with one of the carriers listed (Cingular /AT&T,Nextel, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, or Virgin ) you can provide your phone number in the box indicated and get the Call Number and Title of item texted to you via phone.

• How long can books be checked out?

  Different categories of users can charge out library books for different lengths of time. Students can find more information about loan periods at Student Circulation Privileges. Faculty can find more information at Faculty Circulation Privileges.

• How long can I use reserve items?

  Most reserve loans are for two hours, and may be renewed if another patron has not requested them. Some reserve items circulate for three days.
  Items may be borrowed overnight beginning two hours before the Reserves desk closes.

• How many books can I check out?

  Most patrons can have 200 books on their record at any one time. Non-degree students can have 25 books on their record at any one time.

• How many reserve books may I check out?

  You may check out a total of 12 reserve items, 3 of which may be books.

• I can't log into BobCat

  Some users' security settings may prevent BobCat from displaying. To fix this, user must add port 8991 to the list of ports that are available to their network.

• I clicked on "full-text", but I only got to the journal's homepage. Why?

  SFX will get you as close to the article-level as it can, given the structure of the information provided by the database publisher. Sometimes you may link directly to the full text, other times you may have to click through to an issue or through a table of contents

• I have a citation for an article I'd like to add to Blackboard for my students to read. How do I find and add this article to Blackboard?

  To see if we have the article, go to the Article Linker  form and fill in as much of the article information as you have (title, author, journal title, volume, etc)
  

  • Article Linker Instructions
  
  
  

• I have a number of readings I'd like my students to access electronically through Blackboard. Is there a way I can add all these articles?

  There are several ways you can add electronic articles to Blackboard for your students to access. You can:

  1. add your articles to RefWorks and create a shared folder from which your students can view article citations and access the full-text through the library.
  
  
  2. add your articles to course reserves.
  
  

• I like the book/video I just found. How do I find similar items?

  From within the item record, click on the links within the Subject Headings area, OR click on the links within the Similar Items area (lower right hand corner).

• I lost some personal items. Where should I look?

  Lost and found is located in the public safety office.
  
  in the northwest corner of the main floor.

• I need a book or a journal that is not in the collection. How can I get it?

  Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a service which helps eligible patrons obtain materials that are unavailable in the New York University or consortium libraries. Submit an Interlibrary Loan request.

• I need to find books my instructor has placed on reserve. How do I search course reserves by instructor?

  From the course reserves tab in new BobCat, there is a drop-down menu with options to limit a search underneath the search field. One of these is "instructor." It is also possible to enter an instructor's name and search "anywhere in record."

• I need to find course reserve materials for a particular course-how do I search by course number?

  Enter in the course number, but omit the section number. For example, search by S44.2001, NOT S44.2001.010 (section 10).
  

• I sometimes see the option to search inside this book under book title.

  When looking at the availability (GetIt) screen, you'll sometimes see an option to "search inside this book." This option is provided by Hathi Trust and Amazon. You can preview the book and search for keywords by utilizing the "search inside this book" functionality. To get the physical book, locate the call number and go to the corresponding floor.

• I want a book but it says On Order. How do I get it?

  
  If you see the "Request" button, you may place a request for the item to be rush processed. When the book does become available for you we will send you an email notification, and you can pick it up at the Circulation desk.

  As an alternative, eligible patrons may request the item through Interlibrary Loan athttp://library.nyu.edu/services/ill.html 

• I want to distribute some selected readings for my class not included in the textbook. What are my options for making these readings available? Is there any limit to how much of the readings I can use?

  As a rule of thumb, you may copy a limited percentage (approximately 10%) of the book as a PDF (or other digital file) for your course. This would typically meet the guidelines for fair use. If you continue to use the PDF materials in subsequent semesters for the same course, you'll need to request permissions or consider creating a course pack. Alternately, you may request the entire book be placed on reserve at the library. If a requested book is not in the library's collection, the library will order it.

• I want to get a book but the Availability Field says On Exhibit. Can I get the book?

  This material is currently being used in an exhibit. Eligible patrons may request a copy through interlibrary loan

• I would like to include art images and photographs on my course LMS. Are there any image collections I can use without violating copyright?

  Access to a growing number of good-quality image databases has been licensed by NYU Libraries for NYU students and faculty:. The terms of the licenses generally allow downloading and use of images in password-protected course websites (such as Blackboard) for review and study purposes. They may also be used for classroom instruction and related activities including handouts, presentations, research, and student assignments. Additional uses may be allowed under individual licenses, such as cropping, manipulating color, as long as appropriate credit lines are used.

• I'd like help adding course readings to Blackboard

  For help adding course readings, contact your subject librarian

• I'd like to add video to my Blackboard course

  Contact the Avery Fisher Center at 998-2585 or visit online.
  

  
  Also, see the Video FAQ's

• I'm having trouble linking to an article I found in an e-journal. Can I just download the PDF and place it on my course LMS?

  The Library always attempts to get the broadest academic rights when licensing e-resources. Our recommendation is that you create persistent links to e-journal content, rather than download PDFs. For information on creating persistent links
  
  

• If BobCat says a book I want is available but I can't find it, what can I do?

  Before reshelving, books are held in the staging areas located on the floor appropriate to the call number. You can ask a stacks staff member on that floor for assistance in locating a book in the staging area. If you can't find the item in the stacks even though the status of the book is "Available", you can request a book search. Fill out a "Quick Search" card (available by the doors to each wing of the stacks, as well as at 1st Floor Reference Center and at the Circulation desk) and turn it in at the north end of the Circulation desk on the first floor. A search will be conducted within 24 hours, and you will be notified of the initial search result via email or telephone.

• If I add content to my Refworks folder after I link to it in Blackboard, do I need to re-insert the link, or will it automatically update?

  You don't need to re-insert the link. The link that you initially place into Blackboard will always go to the most current version of your Refworks folder.
  

• If I find articles within databases that I want to add to Blackboard, how do I get the link?

  • If the database provides full text, there will be a full-text link or graphic with the citation. Each database is different in how they provide a link to articles, but you should see an option to "copy link" or "create durable link" within the article information. Copy that link into Blackboard. In order for your students to access this article off-campus, you'll need to add a URL prefix to the URL provided by the database. Copy this prefix (https://ezproxy.library.nyu.edu/login?url=) to the front of the article URL (no spaces) and your students will be able to access the article from on or off campus.
  
  
  • If the database does not provide full-text, but only indexes the citation, you should see a link below the citation that says " Check for availability." Clicking on the link provides you with a screen giving details on how to find the article in full-text. On the top right of the screen there is a URL (Example: URL: http://getit.library.nyu.edu/go/45324). Add this to your Blackboard page
  
  
  

• Is BobCat compatable with Zotero?

  Yes, if you are using the Firefox browser.
  

  
  If you have Zotero installed:
  
  -Perform a search
  -Click on the folder icon in the address bar of Firefox
  -Select the items you want to import to Zotero.

  
  

  
  

  
  Exporting to Zotero is currently only available from the main BobCat screen. Exporting to Zotero from the e-shelf is not yet available.
  

  
  

  
  NOTE: Zotero is not available for Internet Explorer.
  

  
  

• Is my journal article or periodical online?

  By searching BobCat
  , you can find out a periodical's location, either in the building or on the Internet.

• Is there a 24-hour study area in Bobst Library?

  Lower Levels 1 and 2 are open 24 hours a day. Between midnight and 7 a.m., access is limited to students, faculty and staff from NYU, Cooper Union, New York School of Interior Design and The New School.

• Is there a book drop? Can I use it when the library is closed?

  There are two book drops located in the lobby, between the revolving doors. The book drops are open at any time that the building is open (i.e. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during Spring and Fall semesters). The book drops are not available when the building is closed.

• Is there a librarian who covers my discipline? How can I contact him/her?

  Visit our list of subject specialists.

• Is there anywhere I can get change to use the copy machines or printers?

  The circulation desk on the first floor will break large bills and provide up to $2.00 in coins.

• Is there library help in Blackboard for my students?

  Yes, when you access your Blackboard course site you'll see a library resources button on the bottom of your left hand navigation bar. This page provides basic services and information about the library.
  
  If you'd like to customize your page for your specific class and subject, contact your subject librarian

• Is there security at Bobst?

  Bobst Library has NYU Public Safety officers stationed at the entry turnstiles. Contact the Public Safety Office at 212-998-1313.

• May I check out books on my professor's/partner's/spouse's card?

  No. NYU and consortium IDs are non-transferable. Patrons may only use their own cards to borrow books or other materials. According to University policy, if a patron tries to use another patron's card, that card is to be confiscated and turned over to NYU Public Safety. Full-time faculty and NYU administrators may designate Additional Borrowers to check out materials on their record. It is also possible for family members of NYU employees to be issued NYU ID card, which allow library privileges. NYU employees should inquire at their departments for information on family cards.

• May I copy an image from materials in the Library and use it in a scholarly article for publication?

  No, the right to publish the image in a publication is retained by the copyright holder and permission should be sought. For images that have been licensed by the Library for use, click here

• May I return books from consortium libraries at Bobst?

  Only items belonging to Bobst Library may be checked out, renewed, and returned at Bobst. Items belonging to Consortium libraries must be returned to the owning library.

• My professor has items on electronic reserve, how do I find them?

  Items on electronic reserve are part of the ERes system. You can search for your items by course name, instructor's name, or department. These pages require a password; ask your instructor for the password if you do not already have it.

• The book I want is On Hold. How do I get it?

  This item was requested by a library user and is currently being held at the Circulation desk. You may place a hold on it yourself by clicking the Request button. When the book becomes available for you, we will send you an email and you can pick it up at the Circulation desk. You may also speak to a Circulation Department staff member about using the material for a limited time, within the library, while the book is on hold. For more information on holds, please see: http://library.nyu.edu/services/recall.html. If you do not wish to recall the item from the current patron, you may request the item through Interlibrary Loan
  

• The status of the item I want says Reshelving-how do I get it?

  An item with this status has been returned to the library within the past 36 hours. You should first check to see if the item is in its proper location in the Bobst stacks. If you cannot find the item on the shelves, you may wish to check in the book sorting room of the floor or find a stacks staff person for assistance. If your search is still not successful you may wish to check the Circulation sorting shelves, located on the first floor behind the Circulation Department desk.

• There's a link on one of the library pages that doesn't work-whom should I contact?

  E-mail Web Administrator.

• What are my options for using copyrighted video or audio?

  The Library has licensed a number of audio and video collections for use in research and teaching. For information on creating durable links, click here. If the audio or video you wish to use is not available in one of these collections, you may use a limited number of excerpts for reserve purposes, as long as the original video or sound recording was legally obtained.
  

  
  

  
  Avery Fisher Center
  The Avery Fisher Center will assist in preparing portions of video or recorded sound from the Library's collection for reserves. The Avery Fisher Center can assist in identifying copyright owners for audio and video. For information about the Avery Fisher Center please click here .

  
  

  
  Digital Studio
  The Digital Studio offers resources for instructors to capture selections of audio and video and make them available in various formats. As an example, a DVD can be created from various formats of video to show selected excerpts to students in your class. For information on services at the Digital Studio and requesting an appointment please click here.
  

  
  

  
  Streaming
  If you wish to make video and audio excerpts available within your course LMS, you may want to make the clips available for streaming. A media file that is streamed from a server is not downloaded; only streaming data is sent to the user. Media clips are not retained by the user. Streaming video and audio excerpts within your course LMS is usually considered fair use. As a general matter, streaming copyright restricted media can be posted for class use for only one semester. Please see the Digital Studio for information on creating streaming media and requesting an appointment.
  

• What are my privileges at Columbia University libraries?

  New York University and Columbia University have an agreement to share library resources through reciprocal on-site access. For more information, see Columbia Access Policy.

• What are my privileges at Consortium libraries?

  NYU students and faculty may check out books at Cooper Union library, the library of the New York School of Interior Design, and the three libraries of New School University (Fogelman, their main library; Gimbel, the library of Parson's School of Design; and Scherman, the library of Mannes College of Music). Since policies vary, it's best to ask the individual library what the terms of circulation are. For more information, visit Consortium and Affiliated Libraries.

• What are oversized books, and where are they?

  Oversized books are too large to fit on the regular stacks shelves, so there are special sections on each floor for them. Check the maps on each floor to find these materials.

• What are tags in BobCat?

  Tags are words or phrases that any user can assign to resources found in BobCat, to label and organize those resources and to help find them later.

  
  Tagging comes from the BobCat user community; Anyone can contribute, and everyone's contributions are available freely to everyone else.

• What databases does the Articles & Databases tab search?

  The databases searched depend on which category you choose in the drop-down menu under the search box. If you choose the default search, the databases being searched are: ProQuest Research Library;(Wilson) Omnifile FT Mega; and MasterFILE Select (EBSCO).
  
  To see the list of databases being searched in other categories, go to the main BobCat page and click on the link "See the list of databases searched by Articles & Databases tab."
  
  You can still access databases individually by accessing the Articles via Databases page.

• What do I do when a book I want has the status: Check availability (GetIt)?

  To verify the availability of this item, check the catalog entry's holdings page by clicking on the Check Availability (GetIt) link. If the book you want is not available, eligible patrons may request the item through Interlibrary Loan: http://library.nyu.edu/services/ill.html

• What do I do when the item I want says it's In Processing?

  This material is not immediately available, but some In Processing items are requestable. If the "Request" button appears, you may place a request for the item to be rush processed. It normally takes between 3 and 5 business days for a rush In Processing item to become available. When the book does becomes available for you we will send you an email notification, and you can pick it up at the Circulation desk. If the request button does not appear, eligible patrons may place an  interlibrary loan request

• What does Ask at Fales mean?

  This material is not immediately available, but staff may be able to retrieve it for you. Please ask at the Fales Library and Special Collections on the 3rd floor of Bobst

• What does Ask at NYU Archives mean?

  This material is not immediately available, but staff may be able to retrieve it for you. Please ask at the University Archives on the 10th floor of Bobst

• What does Ask at Tamiment mean?

  This material is not immediately available, but staff may be able to retrieve it for you. Please ask at the Tamiment Library on the 10th floor of Bobst

• What does Available in Consortium mean?

  This status means that the item is available from one of our consortium libraries NYU faculty and students can check out items from these libraries using their NYU ID.

• What does Available in your library (GetIt) mean?

  This status means the item is available in Bobst Library. Clicking on this link will take you to the detailed item record and give you the item's location.

• What does In Processing mean?

  This item has been sent to the bindery and may be out of the library for several weeks. As an alternative, eligible patrons may request the item through Interlibrary Loan at :http://library.nyu.edu/services/ill.html 

• What does Request ILL mean?

  If you are looking for an item and you get a Request ILLlink, it means the item you want is currently unavailable. It is suggested that eligible patrons request the item through Interlibrary Loan (ILL). Select the Request ILL link and once you log-on the ILL request form will be automatically filled in with the appropriate item information. The ILL request form can also be found online at: http://library.nyu.edu/services/ill.html 

• What does Ask at Avery Fisher Center mean?

  This material is not immediately available, but staff may be able to retrieve it for you. Please ask at the Avery Fisher Center on the 2nd floor of Bobst.
  

• What does the "Refine My Results" area do?

  When you perform a search in BobCat, you have the option of pre-limiting by title, author, etc. When you get your results, however, you can refine them further using a number of different "facets" that describe the materials in your results; for example, language, library location, subject, type of material, date, and more. These facets allow you to refine your search and provide more relevant results. Facets are listed in the order of highest occurance; for example, if you do a search and your results include mostly books, the books facet will be at the top of the list.
  

• What does the full-text available (GetIt) link mean?

  The full-text available"get it" button visible in the search articles and databases tab means the item is available electronically for you to access. When you click on this button, a new window will open with a list of databases providing full-text access. Simply click on one of the links to "full text online" to get to the article.

• What does the Teach Act allow me to do?

  The TEACH Act expands rights to display works and make copies for use in distance education. Click the North Carolina State University TEACH Toolkit for more information.
  
  

• What does, "there are # versions of this item" mean?

  BobCat uses a system of indexing (FRBR) that allows it to de-duplicate results by comparing information like author, and title. By de-duplicating, BobCat eliminates the need for users to scroll through lists of similar items. To see the list of items within the de-duplicated list, click on the link. For example, when searching for Moby Dick, you'll find in the list versions of the same text, but released by different publishers. One thing to be aware of in BobCat, is that different formats of the same item will often be grouped in one list; in the Moby Dick example above, you will also find video versions of Moby Dick. To elimate this problem, refine your results on the left by resource type (eg. book).
  

• What is a coursepack? How do I create one?

  If you know in advance that a course you are teaching will require a number of journal articles, individual book chapters or other materials and you want to require students to read or otherwise use such materials, you must create a coursepack. For information on creating coursepacks at NYU please see: http://www.bookstores.nyu.edu/faculty.services/course.packs.html

• What is a METRO card?

  A METRO referral card allows an individual a one-time-only visit to another library to use specific item. NYU library users needing access to items not available at Bobst may request a METRO referral card at Bobst Library 1st Floor Reference Center.

• What is Blackboard?

  The Blackboard Learning System provides NYU faculty with the means to develop a structured web presence for their courses. Information Technology Services (ITS) is available to help faculty create and utilize Blackboard course sites

• What is RefShare?

  Refshare is a specific feature within RefWorks that enables you to share folders with anyone. The RefShare feature simply generates a URL for a folder you would like to share. You can give the URL to anyone, even if they don't have RefWorks accounts.
  

• What is The Arch?

  The Arch The Arch is a subject searchable database tool. By selecting a subject or category, you can view databases specific to that subject area, and search them individually or simultaneously for articles
  
  

• What is the difference between microfilm and microform?

  "Microform" is the generic term for material published in microfilm, microfiche or microprint, none of which can be read with the naked eye.

• What is the e-shelf?

  The e-shelf allows you to store searches, push citations to bibliographic tools like RefWorks, and view your search queries, among other things. See the movie below to get a brief overview of the e-shelf.

  Media files

  » part_three.swf

   (2.34 MB)

• What is the log in option on the Articles & Databases page for?

  Log in using your NetID and password. For help with logging in, see the ITS NetID page at: https://start2.nyu.edu/ibin/start0.cgi. Logging in allows you to create your own set of databases to search or embed in a page, and allows you to save individual articles found when searching databases.

• What magazines do you have?

  You can search for serials (magazines, journals, newspapers, etc.) by their titles by going to BobCat. Search just as you would search for a book title.

• What sort of ID do I need to check books out?

  You need one of the following: a NYU ID card with an embossed barcode; a current student or faculty photo ID card from a Consortium School; a current Friends of Bobst Library borrower card; or current borrowing card issued at Bobst Circulation.

• What sort of ID is required for access to Bobst?

  A valid university ID is required for NYU students, faculty and full-time staff; and students and faculty of New School University, Cooper Union, Hebrew Union College and New School of Interior Design. Researchers and scholars not affiliated with NYU should check visitor guidelines for access policies.

• What's the E-Reserves (ERes) password for my class?

  Passwords are devised and distributed by each instructor. Contact your instructor for your password.

• When is the library open?

  See the List of Hours for all service areas (such as Circulation and Reference) and all times that the library is open.

• When searching in the articles and databases tab I see a yellow link saying may be full text (get it). What does this text mean? Can I get the full-text of the article?

  The "may be full text (get it)" link means that you have found an article citation, but still need to search for full-text. You can do this by clicking on the "get it" link, which executes the search for you.
  
  A new window will open and if the article is available, there will be a link to "full text online." If there is no link to "full text online," look for the link to "Get in Bobcat." By following this Bobcat link, you will be looking up the journal title in our catalog, in order to find out if it is available in print or on microfilm in the library.
  
  Click on the journal title in order to open the record and see the full list of availability and locations. Journals in Bobst are shelved by call number, which you can find listed next to "NYU Bobst Main Collection." The locations are all linked to lists of available years, so just click through to check availability.
  
  If a journal is not available online OR in print, you'll see an option for Interlibrary Loan (ILL). ILL allows you to request the article from another library-it will be delivered to you via email, electronically. For more information, see ILL

• When the item I'm looking for says New Books Display, what does that mean? Can I get the item?

  This material is currently shelved as part of a new books display. Please inquire at the owning library's circulation desk as to the location of the display. New books may be charged out

• Where are the journals located?

  Most recent issues are located on the 3rd floor, but the latest issues of science journals are shelved on the 9th floor. Older issues are shelved in the stacks by call number (just like books). Microfilm and microfiche subscriptions are housed in the Microform Center on Lower Level 2. By searching BobCat, you can find out a periodical's location, either in the library building or electronically.

• Where are the Non-Circulating books?

  Non-circulating books are found in many areas of the library, including reference floors, special collections, and more. To figure out where to go to find material, look for the location listed in the Bobcat record. Locations for non-circulating material include 1st floor reference and 5th floor, Special Collections (3rd floor), the Tamiment Library (10th floor), and the Avery Fisher Center (2nd floor). There is also some non-circulating material in the Main Collection, which is located on floors 4-10, depending on call number.

• Where are the public phones in Bobst?

  Public pay phones are located along the north side of the building on Lower Level 1.

• Where are the rest rooms?

  Restrooms are located in the north corners of the building on all but the main floor.

• Where can I check my email in Bobst?

  NYUHome stations are located on LL2.

• Where can I find encyclopedias/dictionaries?

  QuickRef
  and
  Where can I get a refund for money lost in the copy machine or vending machine?

  If a copy machine makes poor copies or eats your money, or if a vending machine will not return your money, visit the Circulation Desk on the first floor for a refund.

• Where can I rent a locker or study carrel?

  The Library Privileges department on the first floor of Bobst Library rents lockers and study carrels. Lockers and study carrels are rented on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible patrons.

• Where can I use my laptop in Bobst Library?

  You may use your laptop anywhere in Bobst Library. Wireless computing is available throughout Bobst Library via NYURoam.

• Where do I return books?

  Bobst materials may be returned in the book drops located just inside the front doors of the library or the book drop located in the center of the circulation desk. Do not return videos or CDs to the book drop; they must be returned to the Avery Fisher Center (2nd Floor).

• Where is the microform room?

  Microfilm, microfiche, and microprints are all located in the Microform Center on Lower Level 2.

• Where is the reference desk located?

  1st floor Reference Center

• Who are "Friends of Bobst Library"?

  Friends of Bobst Library are a special group of faculty, students, alumni, and friends who recognize that a great library is the heart of a great university. In appreciation of their gifts, Friends receive exciting benefits, including Library reading privileges, on-site access to the Library, discounts on select books, and invitations to special events featuring noted authors and public figures.

• Who may borrow books from Bobst library?

  Visit our borrowing policies.

• Whom do I contact to arrange a tour (library instruction, etc.) for my class?

  Contact Marybeth McCartin (x 82513), the Library's Head of Instructional Services for basic tours and general library instruction, or request an instruction session online.
  For a tour of specialized library resources and services, contact the subject specialistsfor your academic area.

• Why am I asked for a password when I try to use some databases?

  To access the Library's subscription databases, when you are off-campus, you will automatically be asked to log in to the NYU EZProxy Server using your NYU NetID and password. Start at the library homepage to choose "articles via databases." Avoid trying to access via google or another search engine.

• Why are there two options for full-text for some articles?

  Sometimes NYU Libraries licenses full-text packages from third party vendors, so there are occasionally duplications.

• Why did I get "no hits" when I clicked on "check holdings"?

  NYU Libraries do not subscribe to all the titles indexed in our databases. Students and faculty who find a journal that is not available in any NYU library may fill our an interlibrary loan request in the SFX menu or directly from Interlibrary Loan.

• Why didn't I get a full-text link for my article?

  There are two likely reasons: (1) There is no full text available or, (2) NYU Libraries does not have a license for access to full text of that journal. When a full text link is not available, your next option is to check the BobCat catalog to locate the title in print.

• Why do I sometimes get a "electronic version not available" message for my book or journal?

  Not everything in BobCat is available online. An online version may not exist, or the Library does not provide access to it online.

• Why does the number of options in the SFX menu vary?

  When you click on SFX, your computer connects to NYU's SFX database to see what services are available for the article. The only services that display are those that are available.

• Why don't I see any SFX buttons in my search results?

  The database you are searching may not yet be set up by the publisher to work with SFX. Many databases from NYU Libraries are "SFX aware." For a current list, see the SFX Page. Another reason you may not see the button is that you have not enabled javascript on your browser.

• Why is there sometimes more than one option for electronic versions?

  The Library may have licensed online versions from more than one vendor or publisher.

• Will other BobCat users be able to edit or delete my tags?

  No; you have responsibility and control over all the Tags you have assigned. However, other users can add their own Tags to an item you have already tagged.

• Will other BobCat users know that a BobCat tag belongs to me?

  Tags are anonymous to the general public. However, for class assignments or other kinds of group projects, students can agree on the meaning and wording of their Tags, then the group can assign them in a consistent and coordinated way.
  In the public BobCat view, a user's name will never be visibly associated with his or her Tags.
  You must be signed in to BobCat in order to tag; therefore your Tags will be connected to your library account, and the library staff will have access to that information.
  When applying Tags, please honor your responsibilities to the community as described in these NYU policy documents:

  • 
    Policy on Responsible Use of NYU Computers and Data: http://www.nyu.edu/its/policies/responsibleuse.html
  • 
    Responsibilities of All NYU Computer, Data, and Network Users: http://www.nyu.edu/its/policies/respon.html
  
  
  • 
    Bobst Library Conduct Code: http://library.nyu.edu/about/code.html

• Will unpaid fines keep me from graduating?

  Yes. All fines must be paid before graduation.