University Libraries' Guide for Undergraduate Students

Check out these library services:

Find out what you have access to at the University Libraries, learn how to check-out and return items, and learn the various ways an item can be requested.

Computers, copy, print, scan: www.lib.umd.edu > Computing

Library computers (PCs and Macs) are equipped with all OIT supported applications for your work.  Scanners are free of charge.  To print and make photocopies in the libraries, open a Terrapin Express Account at: terpexp.umd.edu, then use your UMD ID card to copy/print in B&W and in color.

Equipment for loan: www.lib.umd.edu > Services

Borrow laptops, tablets, e-readers, netbooks, laptop and phone chargers, headphones, and more from McKeldin Library’s Circulation desk.  Bring your UMD I.D. card to borrow equipment.

Individual and group study rooms: www.lib.umd.edu > Services

All campus libraries offer quiet individual and group study spaces.  Ask staff to direct you to these locations.

Interlibrary loan: www.lib.umd.edu > Services

You can obtain books, articles & other materials not owned by the University System of Maryland Libraries to support your research by requesting materials through Interlibrary Loan.

Laptop and wireless access to the University’s network and printers: www.lib.umd.edu > Services

Simply turn on your laptop and access the Web by logging on to the campus network with your UMD directory I.D and password.  Print wirelessly to library printers too, for a small fee.

Library award for Undergraduate Research: www.lib.umd.edu/libraryaward

Every spring semester you have the chance to turn your research project into a cash prize.  Up to three awards of $1,000 each will be awarded to undergraduates who impress us with their research.

Library hours and Late Night Study: www.lib.umd.edu

Learn when the Libraries are open from the homepage. McKeldin Library offers you a safe and quiet 24-hour late night study service on the 1st and 2nd floors.  Late Night Study runs Sunday to Thursday nights from 11:00pm-8:00am in mid-September to December and mid-February to May.  Bring your UMD I.D. card.

Research assistance from librarians: www.lib.umd.edu > Get Help

Chat online with a librarian 24/7, email, call, visit any library Information & Reference Services desk, and/or by make an appointment with a librarian who has subject expertise in your major.

Terrapin Learning Commons (TLC): www.lib.umd.edu > Services

Visit the TLC on the 2nd floor of McKeldin Library.  It offers in one location all you need to succeed: technology, services, information & a place to meet your group.  The TLC also now has a plotter (a large format poster printer) for you to use, too.  You can use it on your own, or have the staff of the Tech Desk in the TLC help you use it!

Check out these library resources:

Eight (8) campus libraries at your service: www.lib.umd.edu > 8 Libraries

• Art Library
• Architecture Library
• Chemistry (White Memorial) Library
• Engineering & Physical Sciences Library
• Hornbake Library (i.e., Archives, Maryland Room, Nonprint Media, Special Collections)
• McKeldin Library (i.e. main library)
• Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library
• Priddy Library @ Universities at Shady Grove (located in Rockville, MD)

Libraries’ WorldCat UMD and Classic Catalog: www.lib.umd.edu

Available 24/7, WorldCat UMD and the Classic Catalog provides you with access to print, electronic, archival and audio/visual materials held by the campus libraries, and beyond! 

Research Port(al) to database: researchport.umd.edu

Available 24/7, this gateway provides you with access to thousands of databases and electronic journals.

Subject (research) guides: www.lib.umd.edu > Get Help

 Produced by librarian subject specialists, subject guides are designed to recommend the best books, articles, journals, non-print sources, websites, etc. to you to help launch your research.

Learn about how to cite sources: www.lib.umd.edu > Get Help

Acknowledging or citing other people's words and ideas indicates to your instructor that you have conducted thorough background research on your topic and are operating from an informed perspective; this increases your credibility. Find out how to cite sources using APA, MLA, and the Chicago Manual of Style.

Special & rare collections: www.lib.umd.edu > 8 Libraries

The University Libraries acquire, preserve, and make available special collections to promote scholarship and learning among campus, state, national, and international communities. Check them out!  These include:

Digital collections: http://digital.lib.umd.edu/

Search these collections to discover how they may inspire and support your research and education.

Employment opportunities: www.lib.umd.edu/hr/home

Check out which jobs are available in the University Libraries. Drop by the Libraries’ Office of Human Resources (McKeldin Library, 6th floor, room 6115) to fill out an application. Bring your UMD I.D. card.