Welcome to the Hunter College Library Guide, your premier resource for navigating the vast array of academic materials and research tools available to you. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Hunter College is a part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, offering a comprehensive education to a diverse student body. The Hunter College Library is committed to supporting the academic success of its students, faculty, and staff by providing access to a wide range of resources, both physical and digital.
Introduction to the Library Collections
The Hunter College Library boasts an extensive collection of over 750,000 volumes, including books, journals, databases, and other multimedia materials. The library’s holdings are diverse, covering subjects from the humanities and social sciences to the natural sciences and health professions. Interlibrary Loan services are also available, allowing patrons to request materials from other libraries when they are not available on site. Furthermore, the library participates in various consortia, enhancing access to resources beyond its own collections.
Navigating the Library
To make the most of your research experience, it’s essential to understand the library’s layout and the services it offers. The library is divided into several floors, each dedicated to specific types of materials or services. The Reference Desk on the main floor is a great place to start, where knowledgeable librarians can assist you with research queries, provide guidance on using library resources, and offer tips on effective research strategies. Additionally, the library offers tutorial sessions and workshops on information literacy and the use of specific databases and tools.
| Library Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Online Databases | Access to over 200 databases covering various subjects |
| E-books and Digital Media | A collection of electronic books, journals, and multimedia resources |
| Special Collections | Rare books, manuscripts, and archival materials available for research |
Research Assistance and Tools
Beyond the physical and digital collections, the Hunter College Library offers a variety of tools and services designed to facilitate your research. The library’s website is a one-stop portal for accessing databases, e-journals, and other digital resources. For those needing help with research papers, citation management tools like Zotero and EndNote are available, along with guides on proper citation and academic integrity. Moreover, the library hosts workshops and seminars on topics ranging from information literacy to advanced research techniques, aimed at enhancing your research skills.
Technology and Study Spaces
The library recognizes the importance of a conducive study environment and access to technology for academic success. It offers state-of-the-art computer labs, equipped with the latest software and hardware, as well as wireless printing services for convenient printing from personal devices. For group projects or quiet study, the library provides various study rooms and areas, including silent study floors and collaborative workspaces equipped with whiteboards and multimedia facilities.
- Computer labs with latest software and technology
- Wireless printing services
- Study rooms for group work and quiet study
- Collaborative workspaces with multimedia facilities
Support for Faculty and Staff
The Hunter College Library is committed to supporting the academic and research endeavors of its faculty and staff. Librarian liaisons are assigned to each department, providing specialized support and collection development tailored to the department’s needs. The library also offers instructional services, including customized research sessions for classes and assistance with designing research assignments. For faculty research, the library provides access to interlibrary loan services and assistance with scholarly publishing and open access initiatives.
Library Instruction and Outreach
Recognizing the importance of information literacy in academic success, the Hunter College Library offers library instruction sessions tailored to specific courses or disciplines. These sessions aim to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate academic databases, evaluate sources critically, and conduct research efficiently. The library also engages in outreach activities, partnering with academic departments and student organizations to promote library services and resources.
- Library instruction sessions for courses and disciplines
- Information literacy workshops
- Outreach programs for academic departments and student organizations
How do I access the library's online databases from off-campus?
+To access the library's online databases from off-campus, you will need to log in with your Hunter College credentials. This can be done through the library's website by clicking on the database you wish to access and then entering your username and password when prompted.
Can I request books or articles that are not available in the Hunter College Library?
+Yes, you can request books or articles that are not available in the Hunter College Library through the interlibrary loan service. This service allows you to borrow materials from other libraries. Requests can be made online through the library's website.
In conclusion, the Hunter College Library is a vibrant academic community that offers a wealth of resources, services, and expertise to support the research and academic endeavors of its students, faculty, and staff. By leveraging these resources and engaging with the library’s knowledgeable staff, you can enhance your research skills, deepen your understanding of academic subjects, and achieve your academic goals.
