Using academic libraries for sixth form study
Finding books and other sources in academic libraries can feel a bit daunting at first, as they are so much bigger and more highly structured than school or public libraries. Here is a three-step process to help you find material
| Step 1 | Search the online catalogue | Search for specific books using the surname of the author and/or one or two words from the title. Alternatively, you can search using keywords to identify books on your topic. |
| Step 2 | Record the details | Write down the title and author and the classmark (which is the number on the spine of the book). Check the catalogue to see if the book is available or on loan to another user. |
| Step 3 | Find your book | Find out where your book is located on the shelves. There should be a library map or plan to help you. There will also be numbers on the end of the shelves (also known as bays). Check the author and title to make sure you have the correct book. Books on the same subject, will have the same classmark so browse the books shelved next to yours. |
Note: many university libraries are card access only and you will need to check their website for information about using the library as a visitor in advance of your visit.
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