Searching the VPOL catalog for a textbook
While the library doesn't explicitly collect all textbooks, it is not unheard of for an instructor to select a textbook that already exists in the collection. To check to see if this is the case, follow these steps!
Start at the Van Pelt and Opie Library homepage.
1. Click on Advanced Search
2. Type in the title of the book you're looking for.
3. Use the Search Filters to ensure you are only searching titles.
4. Click on Title
5. To narrow just to books and ebooks, click on Material Type
6. Click on Books
7. If you have additional information such as Author, enter that into the search area.
8. Click on SEARCH
Access the ebook
9. Skim the results. If there is an ebook version of the work, it will say "Available Online" under the title. Click this for more information.
10. Follow the link under "View Online" to access the platform where this book is held.
If you are off-campus, you will be asked to sign in with your Michigan Tech ISO at this point.
11. Different ebook platforms will appear differently here. Look for options to download or read the full-text. On some platforms you may need to make an additional account or download special software.
12. Use the permalink from the catalog to direct students to the ebook.
Adding this link ensures you are complying with Copyright guidelines and that students are accessing the work through Michigan Tech's subscription. It also helps the library know how many people are using the book so we can make informed decisions about our collection!
Access the print book
13. To limit your original results list to just print books, click on 'Held by library' under the Filters menu.
14. Click on APPLY FILTERS
15. Skim for your text.
16. Under Locations, there will be a call number indicating where in the library the book can be found.
Place a physical text on Course Reserve
Please note: the library does not actively collect textbooks. To use course reserve, you may check our catalog for a copy, supply a copy of your own, or recommend a purchase.
17. To place a work you've found in the catalog on course reserve (or one that you already have a copy of), return to the library's homepage.
18. Click on Services under the main navigation area.
19. Click on Forms and Requests
20. Click on Course Reserve Request Form (Online).
Please note: the Recommend a Purchase form is in this menu as well.
