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2. Will I have access to Library Services?
There are two primary sources for accessing libraries for Ohio distance learning students. These are OhioLINK and Ohio Public Libraries. Use Cleveland State University's Hands on Instruction to learn five lessons on the basics of research and using the library.
OhioLINK
Attending an Ohio higher education institution for distance learning provides you with access to a rich source of on-line library services. OhioLINK is a state-funded consortium of Ohio university and college libraries and the State Library of Ohio. Students, faculty members, and staff members affiliated with OhioLINK institutions can request books online, view journal articles online, search authoritative databases, and make use of other OhioLINK services that enhance research and education.
Getting Started With Research
- Databases or Internet Resources? What each choice gets you
- How to choose a database? for your topic of interest
- How to find magazine or newspaper articles in popular press publications (such as: Newsweek , Jet , or the Chicago Tribune , etc.)
- How to find journal articles in academic and scholarly publication (such as: the American Poetry Review , Journal of Applied Behavioral Science , Medical Care Research and Review , etc.)
- How to locate a particular publication
- How to cite sources
Faculty and Researchers
Check with the reference librarians at your library . They have information about the services of your own library and further recommendations on appropriate sources (electronic or print) to meet your information needs.
Acknowledgement: OhioLINK thanks GALILEO , Georgia Library Learning Online, for permission to model this section from its “Where to Begin?” pages.
OhioLINK FAQ
Q: How do I become a member of OhioLINK?
A: OhioLINK is a state-funded consortium of Ohio 's university and college libraries and the State Library of Ohio. To use online borrowing or the research databases you must be a student, faculty member or staff member at an OhioLINK college or university.
Q: Why can't I use the OhioLINK research databases?
A: Only valid OhioLINK users may use the OhioLINK research databases. A valid OhioLINK user is any student, faculty, or staff member of an OhioLINK college or university. We must impose these restrictions due to the licensing agreements we have with database vendors.
Q: Can I renew an OhioLINK book online?
A: Yes ... if it is not overdue. An item may be renewed once. To renew online, view your circulation record in your local library catalog. It will give you the option to renew the item.
Q: Why isn't "Journal X" available in the Electronic Journal Center ?
A: The Electronic Journal Center currently contains journals from the publishers listed here . OhioLINK has ongoing negotiations with additional publishers.
Q: Why are issues missing in the Electronic Journal Center ?
A: Some journals have missing issues, or issues that seem to be late. To researchers who become used to the convenience of online journals, missing issues cause frustration. OhioLINK has written programs to detect both missing and late issues. We are in frequent communication with publishers to fill these gaps. We apologize for the inconvenience but unfortunately cannot predict when specific issues will arrive. If you have an urgent need for an article but can't find it online, please use the traditional sources (print copy, or interlibrary loan if your library does not subscribe to print).
Contacts:
OhioLINK offers Chat with a Librarian services as well as links to individual Ohio university and college libraries and the State Library of Ohio. If you need assistance getting started, contact one of our Regional Coordinators for assistance.
Ohio Public Libraries
The public libraries in Ohio should not be overlooked as a extremely helpful resource for distance learning students. The Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) also provides a wonderful service of helping you locate the nearest public library. We encourage you to review the OPLN's site to see other services they provide.
Cleveland State University's: Hands-on Library Instruction
Hands-on Library Instruction presents five lessons on the basics of research and using the library. The site also includes information on key concepts and links to helpful resources -on Library Instruction presents five lessons on the basics of research and using the library. The site also includes information on key concepts and links to helpful resources.
Ohio's live online reference service, KnowItNow, unites the information expertise of librarians, the comprehensive resources of Ohio's public libraries and advanced technology to meet your information needs whenever you need it, wherever you are. A librarian is waiting to help you.
