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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to some questions you may have

FAQs

Is there someone available to help me access library resources or support my research?

Yes, the library liaison for Adelphi University International is James Cho.  If you need more in-depth help in a particular academic subject area contact your subject specialist.

What are some of the best practices or strategies to support my online research?

Use online reference sources (such as Wikipedia) for getting a general overview of the topic or subject area.  But Wikipedia is usually not recommended as a source for your research papers.  Google Scholar is a good way to find scholarly articles.  And also, using the electronic books, online databases, and online journals (all free through Adelphi University) is a great way to find sources online.  Using the CRAAP test (in this libguide) is also helpful in finding the best, most authoritative sources found on the internet.

How do I know if I’ve selected the best source (both internet and print)?

Using the CRAAP test is very useful in determining if your sources both print and online are authoritative.  Also, a reference librarian can also help you determine the best resources to use.  (Refer to the CRAAP test in this libguide).

How can I begin my research?

Carefully read the assignment so that you know exactly what you are supposed to write about.  This will help determine the scope, pick a good topic, and ask the right questions.  Then you can start determining what types of resources are the best to use for your research.  Consulting reference materials in the beginning can help you get basic facts and get an overview of the topic.  Please consult this research tutorial.

What defines plagiarism?

Plagiarism is stealing someone else’s work or ideas without crediting the author and passing them off as your own.  Whether you do this intentionally or inadvertently, it is still plagiarism.

Why is plagiarism a serious offense in the U.S.?

Originality in research and scholarly output is highly valued.  When you plagiarize you are stealing.  And you are also deceiving others about your work and the originality of your work.  Copyright and intellectual property laws govern the rights of producers of independent and original work.  In academia, academic honesty ensures that the rights of others are protected and that a person is prevented from claiming work that they did not produce as their own.

What if I need specialized research?

Contact the subject specialist for your area.

What is ILL and how do I use it?

Interlibrary Loan allows you to borrow books or photocopies of documents from other libraries.  Contact the ILL Department or go to the ILL page and fill out a request.

What is Connect NY and how do I use it?

Connect NY is a consortium of 18 academic libraries within New York State whose members have created a combined catalog of their collections of over 5 million titles.  Connect NY lets you directly borrow a book from other Connect NY libraries if the book is not owned by your library or if your library’s copy is already checked-out.  Go to the Connect NY page.

How do I find course reserves?

Course reserve are materials set aside for a specific academic course.  Course reserves are library owned material that are in print and electronic format(pdf) that your professor has reserved for use in his or her courses.  Find course reserves here.  You can search by course or by professor.

Can I borrow a laptop or iPad?

Yes.  Adelphi students may borrow Laptops and iPads from the Access Services Desk located on the first floor of the Swirbul Library.

 How many books can I have at once? For how long?

The policies for students borrowing materials from the Adelphi Libraries can be found here at Borrow, Renew, Return.

What hours are the library open?

Refer to the Garden City Campus Library Hours to view hours for Swirbul Library.  You can also find hours for all Adelphi University campus libraries.  Note that the hours of the reference desk may not have the same hours as the library.

How do I book a collaboration studio?

To reserve a collaboration studio, go to the Collaboration Studio Reservation System.  Note that you must have a valid AU email account and that you can book a studio up to two weeks in advance.

Can I access electronic resources when I am off campus?

Yes.  As long as you have an Adelphi University universal ID and password.

Does it cost anything to access electronic resources?

No.  As long as you are a member of the Adelphi University community and have an Adelphi University univeral ID and password, you can access all electronic resources.

How do I get a library card?

Your Adelphi University ID card is your library card.

What are the fines for late or lost books?

The policies for borrowing materials is outlined here at Borrow, Renew, Return.  Please note that the policies may differ if you are an undergraduate student, a graduate student, or faculty member.

How do I access my library account?

On the library homepage click the My Library Record.  You will be asked for your Adelphi University universal ID and password.

What to do if I have technology-related problems?

Please contact Information Technology Help Desk at the second floor of Swirbul Library, by telephone at 516.877.3340, or by email at helpdesk@adelphi.edu.  Also refer to the IT Help Desk webpage.

What accessibility services does the Swirbul Library provide?

The Adelphi University Libraries partners with the Student Access Office to ensure equal access to all of Adelphi University’s programs, services and facilities for students with documented needs. Through assistance, advocacy and reasonable accommodations, the office provides an accessible and supportive campus environment.  For more information, see the Student Access Office webage.  Or call 516.877.3806. Or email sao@adelphi.edu.