FAQs

• 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 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.

• 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 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Where are the public phones in Bobst?

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

• 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 is the reference desk located?

  1st floor Reference Center