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Support for Students

Undergraduate User Guide

Temple University Libraries is an essential resource that will help you make the most of your studies and time at Temple. The Libraries are your hub for books and articles, research support, study space, cultural programs, and so much more.

At the Libraries, you have access to:

Millions of print and electronic books, songs and musical programs, movies and television shows on DVD and streaming, including many new releases
Librarians and library staff members to assist you with your research and questions
Our rare and varied special collections
Free programs, exhibitions, and film screenings

Services

Librarians and subject specialists are here to help you succeed

Most academic disciplines at Temple have their own dedicated librarian or subject specialist. Whether you want to connect with a knowledgeable specialist about subject-specific research within your major, or you’re hoping to understand research techniques for a course in an unfamiliar subject, our librarians have the answers. Get to know your librarian or subject specialist.

Get tips on starting research, help choosing and using the right resources, or talk in-depth about your research project

Schedule an appointment. Meet one-on-one with a librarian or subject specialist about a research project or other information need.

For answers to questions contact us via chat, email, or text (267-415-8925). See all the options at library.temple.edu/contact-us.

Find materials

Use Library Search to find resources related to your topic. Search by specific titles or browse broad topics and subject areas. Locate all types of materials—books, ebooks, scholarly journal articles, newspapers and popular magazines, media, data sources, and archival materials—through one simple step.

If you need help getting started, our subject librarians and specialists have developed research guides for specific topics and courses that provide an overview of the best, most reliable, and most important sources. Get started on the right track at guides.temple.edu.

Students frequently want to know if the Libraries provide access to a required or recommended textbook. Use our Etextbooks Available Through the Libraries database to see if your textbook is available for free through the Libraries this semester.

Borrow materials

Use your OWLcard to check out library materials at one of our self-check machines (on the 1st floor or at the One Stop Assistance desk. Most of our collection is in the BookBot. Request materials online and pick them up at your preferred library location. The 4th floor of Charles Library offers a browsable collection of 150,000 books.

If we don’t have a book, article, or DVD, there’s a good chance one of our lending partners does. Request unavailable items through E-ZBorrow or ILLiad.

Digital media tools and computing

Borrow a variety of electronic devices and equipment like cameras, audio recorders, and tripods from the Libraries.

Go online and access electronic resources both on- and off-campus, borrow a laptop to get some work done, or charge your own device with one of our portable chargers or device charging stations.

Print in all library locations using your free black and white print quota, which includes 300 pages/semester preloaded on your OWLcard. Wireless printing is available through our “Print on the Go” service. Color printing is available in the TECH Center.

Copy or scan materials. Copiers accept Diamond Dollars, and scanning is always free.

Get help with data and mapping

Subject librarians can help you find, analyze, and visualize data for your research projects and course assignments. The library’s GIS Specialist can assist you with mapping and GIS technology, and help you find spatial data.

Loretta C. Duckworth Scholars Studio services

The Loretta C. Duckworth Scholars Studio at Charles Library is your space to explore the latest technologies and methods in the digital humanities, digital arts, gaming, making, and more. Expert staff members can help you:

Create in 3 dimensions, including virtual reality with the Oculus Rift, Unity, 3D printing, 3D scanning, and laser cutting.
Experiment and build with electronics in our makerspace.
Work with mapping and GIS technology to better explore our world.

Study spaces

Students cite study space as one of their top academic success needs. Temple Libraries deliver by offering multiple types of study spaces geared to the needs of individuals and groups.

Book study rooms at Charles Library and the Ginsburg Health Sciences Library ahead of time.

Collections

The Libraries hold millions of titles in our general collections, electronic materials, and rare and unique special collections. All special collections must be used on site.

Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection

blockson@temple.edu | 215-204-6632

Visit the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection for a first-hand account of African and African American history and culture. The Blockson Collection, located in Sullivan Hall, houses rare African American publications, photographs, manuscripts, visual and performing arts materials, and more, dating from the 16th century to today. The Blockson Collection is open for research, and users are advised to arrange appointments by emailing the Librarian, Aslaku Berhanu, at aberhanu@temple.edu or calling 215-204-4723.

Leisure Reading Collection

Visit the first floor of Charles Library and browse current bestsellers, popular fiction and nonfiction, mysteries, science fiction and fantasy, how-to manuals, self-help books, and more.

Special Collections Research Center

scrc@temple.edu | 215-204-8257

Visit the Special Collections Research Center (SCRC) to access unique and rare archival materials for your class work and personal research projects. The SCRC, located on the first floor of Charles, is home to university archives; rare books and manuscripts; the regional Urban Archives collection; artists’ books; contemporary culture publications; and more. Verify SCRC hours prior to your visit by viewing the library hours page.

Public programs

Beyond the Page public programs, exhibitions, and workshops

Each semester, the Libraries host a series of talks, panels, exhibitions, workshops, and programs. Visit the library events page for more info and tag us at #BeyondThePageTU.

Temple University Libraries

University Libraries