Searching Outside the SUNY Empire Library
There is no library in the world that has access to all the books, articles and other information sources that you could need. Even huge research university libraries have gaps in their collections. Fortunately, libraries are in the habit of cooperating with each other as much as possible to get patrons the information sources that they need. Here are some ways that you can find information sources that our library does not have:
Google it!
Before you try anything else, Google the title of the article, in quotation marks. If it is from an Open Access source, you may find it on the web for free. If you are writing your dissertation, or something for publication, you will want to know if it is the published version of the article (good!) or maybe a pre-print or post-print (ok, but eventually you will need to have the final version.) If you're just doing an assignment or a research paper for a course, pre-prints and post-prints are fine.
- SUNY Open Access Policylets you bring your college photo ID to the librarians at any SUNY, CUNY or New York community college library. Ask them about the Open Access polity and how you can borrow books, use the print journals and possibly the online databases while you are in the building. If you need a letter of introduction, use this form to request one.
- Interlibrary Loanlets you borrow articles and book chapters (electronic delivery only.) that are not available through the SUNY Empire Library. Information about the service and how to use it is also available on the page.
- Google Scholarsearches for books and scholarly articles. When you access Google Scholar through the library, and log in with your college username and password, your search results will link to full text in the Empire State College Online Library, whenever available. Your search results will also include full-text articles in document repositories, some full-text e-books and some previews of print books. Google Scholar charges fees for access to some materials.
- WorldCatsearches thousands of libraries' online catalogs from around the world. WorldCat lets you search for books, audiobooks, e-books, print and online journals, articles, microform resources and information sources in many other formats. Click the title of the source to view the item information. Then, enter your zip code. WorldCat will list the libraries that own the information source you want, in order of proximity.
- Local College Librariessometimes have programs for community borrowers. Call ahead to find out whether there are any conditions or fees. If you need a letter of introduction, use this form to request one.
- LibWeb - Public LibrariesPublic Libraries allow you to borrow books if you get a library card, which generally requires that you live in the same county or general region. They may offer interlibrary loan services for articles and books. Call ahead to find out if they offer interlibrary loan services.
Online used book stores can be very affordable, and most allow you to resell your book when you are done with it.
- Ebay - BooksEbay acquired Half.com.
Accessibility Note
Please note: If you need to request accommodations with content linked to on this guide, on the basis of a disability, please contact Accessibility Resources and Services by emailing them. Requests for accommodations should be submitted as early as possible to allow for sufficient planning. If you have questions, please visit the Accessibility Resources and Services website.
