Health Sciences 2014–2015 University Calendar

4.9	Resources for Study and Research

4.9.1

Libraries

Located across both campuses, the McGill Library system consists of eight library branches, two special reserve collections in education and life sciences, one reading room, and the McGill University Archives. Numbering over six million items, the Library's vast holdings include: 2.5 million books; thousands of journal titles; vast manuscript and pictorial collections; and hundreds of thousands of sound and video recordings. The Library's e-resources are extensive, and include over 100,000 e-journals and four million e-books on subjects ranging from early English literature to nutrition.

A comprehensive website (www.mcgill.ca/library), an online catalogue, and a wide range of library services link the Library's resources to those who need them for learning, research, and scholarship. Hundreds of databases on topics from art history to zoology guide users to relevant journal articles and research materials, while subject guides on topics like chemistry and social work provide comprehensive and clear direction for users undertaking research. Unique scholarly materials from the Rare Books and Special Collections are digitized and also made widely accessible online through the site. The Library's website also provides access to items such as past examination papers, McGill theses, and foreign newspapers. All electronic resources are available for use in laboratories anywhere on the campus or from home using EZproxy.

The staff in each branch library can help you locate information for coursework, assignments, or research topics. Training is provided at all student levels to ensure you know how to find and use information. Information skills programs are undertaken as part of course curricula. Liaison librarians specialize in specific disciplines, and are available to assist students and staff in person, on the phone, online, by email, and via online chat.

Although opening hours vary, most libraries are open up to 90 hours per week, and several branch libraries extend opening hours during examination periods. Hundreds of computers are available for email, word processing, accessing online courses, reading library materials, preparing assignments, and searching the Internet. Designed to enhance the learning experiences of diverse users, the Library's facilities offer a variety of comfortable and attractive spaces, including quiet individual study areas, dynamic e-zones, and group study rooms that can be booked for use. Wireless access is available throughout the library, and all libraries have ID card-operated printing and copying facilities. Special facilities are available for vision and hearing impaired users.

Special library services like the Course Reserve collection located in each branch library allows you to borrow high-demand items on course reading lists. You can also borrow materials from any library and return them anywhere across the system. If you need material not owned by the McGill University Library, our Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery Service will source it for you, and pickup is available at any branch.

Changes are made after the publishing of this Calendar. Always check Class Schedule for the most up-to-date information. This includes class times, locations and instructors.

Note: “you” refers to students newly admitted, readmitted or returning to McGill.

Use the Course Search for descriptions of all courses and the term when they are offered. Search for courses using specific keywords in the free-form field. Note: not all courses listed here are offered every term or year.