Search Website and Guides
Getting Started
Need help finding materials, using the library, or navigating the research process? This guide will help you learn more about the library and research essentials for our students, faculty, and staff.
Finding and Borrowing Books
We have thousands of books in every discipline, ready for you to use.
Our Collections
Circulating collections are available for you to borrow, like books on the ground, second and third floor, and media like CDs or DVDs. The reference collection on the first floor is for use within the library. Items in Special Collections and Archives are rare and unique items that require their use within the Special Collections and Archives Reading Room.
Finding Books
Use SouthernSearch, our Libraries' discovery tool for finding books in our physical collections. Watch this video tutorial on finding books & eBooks for further guidance. Check out books using your HootLoot card at our check out desk.
Using Call Numbers
Call numbers are the codes that tell you where to find books, journals, and other physical materials in the library. They organize items by subject and indicate exactly where each item is located on the shelves. Buley Library uses Library of Congress classification which groups materials by topic to make browsing and locating related resources easier.
To help you find what you're looking for, use the library's call number charts and floor maps, or ask a library staff member for assistance. If you'd rather not search the shelves yourself, you can request eligible items through SouthernSearch and pick them up at the library's checkout desk when they're ready.
Finding Articles, Journals, and Databases
Millions of peer-reviewed and scholarly articles accessible whenever you need them.
Our Online Collections
Our online collections provide access to a wide range of resources, including general and subject-specific databases, electronic journals, newspapers, and other materials designed to support your research.
Databases
If you already know which database you want to search, use the Database A-to-Z List to quickly locate it. You can browse the library's complete collection of databases alphabetically or search by keyword or subject to find resources that best match your research needs.
Finding Scholarly or Peer-Reviewed Articles
Start by searching for keywords in SouthernSearch. SouthernSearch helps you locate relevant articles across most of our journals and databases. If you’re unsure which keywords to use, try the Search Strategy Builder for additional guidance.
Locating Journals by Title
Use Journal Search to search for a specific journal. Enter the exact title you are looking for to learn about what dates the library provides full-text access to. Use the Journal Finder advanced search feature for more in-depth searching.
Finding Media & Other Resources
Access news and media without a paywall.
Finding Textbooks and Textbook Reserves
Use SouthernSearch to find and borrow many of the textbooks assigned by your professors.
Finding Course Reserve Materials
Students and faculty may access course reserve by entering a course number or book title into SouthernSearch or by visiting the Circulation Desk.
Finding Media
The library offers access to both contemporary and archival streaming video and audio resources and an extensive collection of online images to support research and teaching across multiple disciplines. The collection includes historical footage, documentaries, performance recordings, and instructional content spanning multiple fields.
Using the Library
Using our spaces to fit your needs.
Find and Reserve a Study Room
Our individual and group study rooms provide a quiet and comfortable space for you to focus on your work and collaborate with your peers. Study rooms may be booked 24-hours in advance and for up to three hours per day.
Using the Computer Lab
The Computer Lab, located on the first floor of the library, is available to students, faculty, and staff during business hours. All computers are equipped with up-to-date software including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, Mozilla Firefox, and other productivity and technical applications to support coursework and research.
Copy, Print and Scan
Southern CT State University provides high speed, high volume, print services at a cost per page. Printing devices are available in open access areas and provide print, copy, and scan features at every location. The cost per page will be charged against your Hoot Loot balance.
Alumni or Visitors
Alumni and visitors can use the library databases by visiting the library. Ask at the Research & Information Desk to be logged onto a guest computer--please be prepared to show a personal ID. Printing is limited, so please bring a USB drive for downloading articles.
Starting your Research
Taking your first steps in creation
Citing and Using Sources
The Citations and References guide will help you cite sources, avoid plagiarism, learn about citation styles and available citation tools, and more.
Finding Your Subject Librarian
Subject Librarians focus on managing collections and services related to specific academic fields, they work closely with students and faculty to support teaching.
Need General Help? Ask Us!
Our "Ask a Librarian" service connects library users directly with librarians for personalized assistance. Unlike the traditional reference desk, this service offers support through multiple channels including live chat. Our chat service is embedded within the website and guide pages.
Exploring Resources with Research Guides
The library offers you access to specialized online subject guides curated by librarians to help you find the most relevant databases, journals, books, and other information in your subject area. The guides are designed to save you time and support your academic work.
