Answered By: Russell Perry
Last Updated: Jun 07, 2023     Views: 145

There are different options for finding textbooks for course assignments. First, some professors put physical copies of textbooks on reserve at the library. These items can be borrowed for a limited amount of time, usually 2 hours, to scan or read. You can also visit the Course Reserves catalog page to search for textbooks.

Other professors have the library staff scan chapters or short sections of their textbooks, which are added to online library course guides. You can find these readings on your class Blackboard page.

Some complete textbooks are also available as eBooks. Like with the short, scanned sections, you will find these on your class Blackboard page. Watch the video below to see how to access just the chapters you want to read. This way you can either read it on your computer/tablet/phone or print the PDF to read a paper copy.

Not all professors take advantage of these services, so we suggest checking your syllabus for information about any reserve items connected with your course. If your professor hasn't put any textbooks on reserve, ask them to consider it!

Beyond course reserves, some textbooks are available in print or eBook versions by searching the regular library catalog. You could also request textbooks through Interlibrary Loan (ILL), but we advise against that. You would only have 28 days with an ILL item, and it's difficult for us to get textbooks when everyone is requesting them.

In addition to library options, you can also buy required textbooks through the UMass Lowell Bookstore.

Media