How to Use the Library

There’s so much you can do at the University of Alberta library. We’ve put together some library basics and a selection of popular services to get you started. You can also check out all our full list of library services or our Frequently Asked Questions.

Searching the Collection

Search Guide

Learn how to make the most of our search tools so you can find the resources you need. Search Guide

Research Guide

Learn about the different types of library research and follow our road map to start your research journey. Research Guide

Request items from other libraries with interlibrary loans

Did you know the U of A library can request materials from other libraries not just in the city, but from across Canada and around the world? Learn more about interlibrary loans

Recommend a Purchase

If you’re interested in a title that’s not currently in the library’s collection, members of the University of Alberta community can suggest a purchase, and we’ll consider your request. Materials that support the research and teaching programs of the University of Alberta will be given first priority. Submit a recommendation

Library Spaces

Getting to the campus libraries

There are 5 library locations on the Main (North) U of A Campus, 1 at Augustana Campus and 1 at Campus Saint-Jean. See our hours and locations

Book a study space

Study rooms are available for booking during library hours by U of A students and staff. Learn more about study rooms

Noise zones

The library offers a variety of spaces at different noise levels to provide the most productive learning and studying environment for our campus community. People need quiet places to learn and work as well as spaces for group learning and collaboration. Learn more noise zones and study spaces

Food and beverages in the library

Only cold snack foods and beverages in closed containers are permitted in quiet and collaborative spaces. In silent zones, no food is allowed. For more details see our Food & Drink Policy.

Accessibility

Visit our Location Accessibility page for detailed accessibility information for each location. Learn more about accessible resources, spaces and services

Computer + Digital Services

Using a computer in the library

Windows public workstations are located throughout the library locations. Computers are available on a first come, first serve basis. More information about software and workstations

Printing and scanning

Printing, copying, and scanning services are available at the ONEcard printers located across our campuses. For detailed instructions and printing costs, visit the ONEcard printing webpage.

Digital media services

The library offers a variety of digital media services from media labs to 3D printing to virtual reality. Check out the Digital Scholarship Centre and the Sperber Library for details.

Library Cards + Accounts

Your ONEcard is your Library Card

You can also register your ONEcard to access Edmonton Public Library (EPL) material through the L-Pass program. Learn more about your ONEcard

My library account

Keep track of your library materials, holds, and fines with My Account. Email notifications and courtesy reminders will be sent to your @ualberta account.

Borrowing + Returning Items

Borrowing privileges

The U of A library and its collections are available to all current students, staff and faculty. Other groups like alumni, retired staff and community members have access as well. Learn more about borrowing privileges

Place Hold

A hold is an online request to have an item delivered to the library location of your choice. Place a hold for items that are located at a library location that is inconvenient for you to get to (eg. RCRF) or for items that are currently "checked out" to another person. To place a hold follow these steps:
  • Click the place hold button button
  • Login with CCID or barcode + PIN
  • Select your prefered library pickup location
  • Wait for the email notification indicating your items are ready for pickup

Checking out items

Use a library checkout kiosk in any of our library locations or download our app to check out items from anywhere using your mobile device. Learn more about check out options

Online and e-resources

Your CCID is your key to access the online information you need for your work (eg. e-books, e-journals, articles) from on or off campus. Learn more about accessing library online resources

Returning items

You can return your library materials to any of our library locations. There are drop-off slots located conveniently near the entrance of most locations. You may also return items by giving them directly to our service desk staff.

Course Materials

Course Materials are the required textbook for your class and have a short term loan. Short term loan means you can borrow a Course Material for 2 hours late fees will be applied for late returns. There are two ways to find your Course Material:

  • Search by title and author in our catalogue
  • Search by course code in Talis Aspire

Check out our Course Material FAQs for more information.

Late fines

There are no fines for most items. Course Materials (short-term loans) fines are $1/item per hour. Learn more about fines