Navigating the Resources of American University Library
American University Library stands as a central hub for academic research and study, offering a wealth of resources to its students, faculty, and the wider community. This article provides a detailed overview of the library's resources, access options, and services available to its users.
Accessing Databases and Electronic Resources
WCL (Washington College of Law) users enjoy comprehensive access to all databases provided by the University Library. To explore the full range of available databases, users can select the "Search Databases" option, which presents a comprehensive list. The University Library catalog also separately indexes newspaper articles. This allows you to search for a particular newspaper article title, headline, byline or within the text of the article.
Finding Non-Legal Articles
For those seeking articles outside the realm of law, the AU library offers numerous avenues. When searching for a specific article, users may encounter a prompt to sign in using their AU Credentials. Upon finding the desired article, selecting the article title or "Available Online" will reveal all databases that host the article. American University is participating in JSTOR's interactive research tool beta testing. View the FAQ for details. Currently, Project MUSE offers nearly 250 quality journal titles from 40 scholarly publishers.
Newspaper Resources
The University Library provides extensive resources for accessing news content. Users can utilize the catalog to search for specific newspapers. Upon locating the desired newspaper, clicking the title reveals the available holdings at AU. Additionally, the University Library subscribes to a variety of newspaper-specific databases.
Access for Visitors and Community Members
The American University Library extends access beyond its immediate student and faculty population through various programs.
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Library Hours
During the academic year, the library building welcomes visitors during the following hours:
- Monday through Thursday: 8 AM to 9 PM
- Fridays: 8 AM to 6 PM
- Saturdays: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Sundays: 10 AM to 9 PM
Please note that these hours are subject to change during the summer, intersessions, and holidays. For the most up-to-date information, it is advisable to check the library's official website or contact the AU Library directly at 202-885-3232.
On-Site Access
Visitors are welcome to utilize Bender Library to access select databases and electronic resources. Furthermore, professional assistance is readily available from reference librarians and subject specialists. Some databases can be accessed while onsite in the library building, without needing a borrowing account, by obtaining login information from the Information Desk.
Borrowing Privileges
AU offers two distinct programs for individuals and groups interested in purchasing borrowing privileges:
Friends of AU Library Book Borrowing Program
This program grants individuals not affiliated with AU the ability to borrow books from the library's general collections. A membership allows borrowing of up to 25 books for a period of 4 weeks, with the option for renewal unless the items are recalled or requested. It's important to note that access to electronic resources, such as databases and e-books, is not included in this membership. Membership fees are payable by credit card only.
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Group Associate Book Borrowing Program
Commercial, nonprofit, and governmental organizations can acquire group borrowing privileges for their members or employees. This program allows groups to borrow AU books for 4 weeks, with renewals available unless the items are recalled or requested. Similar to the individual program, access to electronic resources is not included. Membership includes one borrowing card, with the option to purchase additional cards. The primary account holder assumes responsibility for all items on the account and any associated fines or fees. The primary account holder must also be present when checking items out. However, if additional cards are purchased, the cardholder(s) can check out items without the primary account holder present.
Access for Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Members
Members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at American University are entitled to borrow up to 25 books at a time from the library's general collections. OLLI instructors may also borrow certain DVD titles for use in their classes.
OCLC Reciprocal Faculty Borrowing Program
American University Library participates in the OCLC Reciprocal Faculty Borrowing Program, enabling visiting faculty from participating libraries to borrow from the general collection. Visiting faculty must pre-register for an identification card at their home institution before setting up their account at AU.
Newspaper Databases and Resources
The American University Library provides access to a wealth of newspaper resources, catering to diverse research needs. The library emphasizes 20th-century historic newspapers.
Comprehensive News Coverage
The library's collection includes newspapers as well as full-text content of key international sources. Over 4,500 news sources are included. Each provides unique coverage of local and regional news, including companies, politics, sports, industries, cultural activities, and people in the community.
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Up-to-Date News and Information
The library serves as an excellent source of up-to-date news, business, and legal information. News stories date back to the late 1970s. International sources are available for most content areas. The library provides access to international newspapers, many in foreign languages.
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