The Alvin Sherman Library, Research, and Information Technology Center stands tall in the center of campus. It offers students various tools which they can use throughout college. A vast array of resources is available for research. Private study rooms can be used for group study sessions. The computer labs provide students access to the Internet, various programs and printing. Here is your guide for navigating one of the largest and most comprehensive libraries in South Florida.
1. Digital resources
NovaCat is the university’s private online catalog for research sources. Books, periodicals, CDs, and DVDs are just a few of the materials available through this service. You can also renew your rental online, both on and off campus, by accessing the Web site www.nova.edu/library/main.
Databases provide students access to a large selection of journal articles and eBooks as well as other types of informational materials. These databases can be searched both on and off campus by using your NSU login information. Periodicals such as magazines, academic journals and newspapers can be located in print, or online using NovaCat or Journal Finder.
Audiovisual materials and Microforms in the form of games, music and books are at the students’ disposal. These types of media come in CDs, DVDs, cassette tapes and other technologies. Microfilm and microfiche materials are also provided.
2. Printing and copying
Printing and copying machines can be found all over the library. Some require a SharkCard, while others will accept change. NSU students receive a $75 printing balance on their SharkCard at the beginning of the school year. Printing costs 10 cents per page.
3. The Connections Café
There is a cafe located on the first floor in case a student needs food. Food is not permitted in the library. However food can be ordered to go from the café. There are also couches, chairs and tables in the café, which can be used for studying.
4. Document Delivery
Can’t find that certain book or periodical in the NSU library or online? Contact a reference librarian and it can be ordered. The librarian’s contact number is (954) 262-4613.
5. Library Instruction and Arrangement of the Collection
The research collections are ordered according to the Library of Congress system. As such, the children’s section, located on the first floor, is ordered by the Dewey Decimal system. NovaCat is the easiest and quickest way to search for other books and periodicals in the library. Not sure on how to do that? A librarian can teach skills for using NovaCat, databases, Internet use and reference tools. A reference librarian is available at (954) 262- 4613.
6. Group study rooms
Group study rooms are available for students by appointment. There must be at least three students.
7. DVD and VHS camera check-out
DVD and VHS camera rental is available through the library. Students must provide contact information, including their N-number.
8. Computer labs
There are several computer labs located in the library. It is recommended that new students consult library personnel for instruction on how to print materials in the lab. Food and drinks are not permitted in the computer labs.
If utilized, the library can become one of the most important resources of a student’s academic career. In an age where Internet sources are not always verifiable, it is vital to have resources which are reliable. The Alvin Sherman Library, Research, and Information Technology Center offers that.
