Books


What books do you have?

The libraries have more than a million books, most of which can be borrowed. We also have a growing collection of electronic books.

All books are included on the Library Catalogue - search this to find what you want..

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How do I find what I need on the Catalogue?

From the Full Catalogue Basic Search:

  • If you are sure you know the title: use Title ... begins with. Type in the first few words of the title.
  • If you are not sure of the exact title: use Word(s) anywhere. Type in an author's name, words from the title or subject, or any combination of these.
  • Find other books on the same subject by following the Subject links for a book which interests you
  • Follow the links to electronic books

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How do I find out where the books are?

The Library Catalogue tells you where books are:

All items: Follow this link to find Shelf locations for items held in the libraries and links to electronic books and websites.
Aleph Map
Where things are in the libraries
Aleph information icon
Hints, tips and explanations

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What do the Shelf locations mean?

Here is an example which explains what the Shelf location means.

The letter G represents economics

Numbers may be added to indicate a more specific aspect of this subject

For example

G 5 = business
G 5.8 = management
G 5.815 = corporate finance

This is followed by three letters representing the first three letters of the author's name.

For example:
G 5.815 LUM is the shelf location of the book by Steve Lumby called Corporate finance

The numbers are decimal numbers.

So, for example:
G 5.815 comes before G 5.82

You also need to make a note of the Collection. For example, remember that Quarto (oversize books) are shelved at the end of the ordinary size books in each subject.

See the floorplans on each floor, or follow the Aleph Map link on the Catalogue to find out where the book is shelved.

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How do I borrow books?

Have a look at our Borrowing web page for information on how to borrow, return and renew books and how many you can borrow and for how long.

The Requesting and booking page gives information on requesting items on loan to someone else and booking Key Texts, audiovisual, closed stack and special collections.

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How can I get more help?

For more help on finding print and electronic books you can Contact us in the way that suits you best.