Library Collections

Using the library collections

The best way for you to find items in the library is to search the catalogue.

Check the item’s availability and note the location and classification number before searching the shelves.

As a rule, you will find items belonging to one of the following collections:

Main Collection
Most items in this collection can be borrowed for 21 days. Exceptions to this are Library Use Only books which are Not for Loan.

Reserve
The items in the Reserve collection are in high demand and belong to one of two categories; Library Use Only or 7-day loan.

• Library Use Only: Here you will find the Prescribed textbooks for each course. These items can only be used the library and need to be available for all students to access.
• 7-Day Loan Lecturers can request to have high use items placed on 7-day loan to ensure fair use. These high demand items must be returned by the due date for other students to access.

Q (Quarto) Large Books
The Quarto collection is located near the entrance of the library and contains large books shelved separately from the General collection. Quarto items can be borrowed with the same loan period as General collection items.

Compactus
The Compactus is located near the library printer and contains extra resources which can be borrowed. Any items with Compactus as a collection prefix can be found in this area. This includes items in Compactus-Journals.