Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Jump to sections on this FAQ with these links:

• Opening times
• Finding things in the Library
• Using the Library - borrowing, renewing, etc.
• Making enquiries
• Using the electronic services and e-books
• Using other libraries, interlibrary loans
• Photocopying, printing
• Filming in the library

Opening times

• Q: When is the library open?
  • A: The opening times of the libraries are on our web pages.
• Q: When can I use the computers?
  • A: The IT suites in Newton Park Library are open for the same hours as the Library.

Finding things in the Library

• Q: What do the different coloured bands on the books mean?
  • A: You can find a listing of what the coloured bands mean on the Library's web pages under loan periods and fines.
• Q: The catalogue says it's on the shelves but I can't find it.
  • A: There are three ways to find stuff:
    • Always check the details page of the catalogue. This will tell you whether something is on loan and/or exactly where you can find it - it may be a Pamphlet or an Oversize book or a DVD, etc. and these are all shelved separately from the main stock.
    • What you're looking for may only have been returned recently.  Check the re-shelving areas as well.
    • If, after a thorough search, you still can't locate the item you want, fill in a 'Missing from Shelf' form and we will try to find it for you.
• Q: Where do I find the DVDs and videos?
  • A: At Newton Park, they are located in the Music and DVD Rooms on the ground floor of the Old Wing - follow the signs through the Library
  • A: At Sion Hill, they are located in the first room to the left beyond the Desk as you come in.
  • A: At Corsham Court, they are located in the Reading Room.

Using the Library

• Q: Is there a special Library card or ticket?
  • A: No, your Library card is your SU card. You need to produce it whenever you borrow or renew books.
• Q: What is my reader number / user ID?
  • A: It's the same as your student number on your SU card.
• Q: How many books can I borrow?
  • A: Loan entitlements are listed on the Library web pages.
• Q: How long can I borrow a DVD / CD / video?
  • A: CDs and DVDs are usually a 3-day loan though they may be Week loans (red bands) or 3-week loans. Details of individual titles are given on the Library catalogue.
• Q: How do I get a PIN to renew my books and place holds?
  • A: Your Library PIN is normally your date of birth in 6 figures (e.g. 24 May 1988 = 240588).  If this doesn't work, ask at the Reception Desk for it to be checked for you.
• Q: Can I get a book / DVD / etc. from another campus Library?
  • A: Yes, you can place a hold on items at another campus via the Library catalogue (you will need your student number and Library PIN). You can do this whether they are currently on the shelves or on loan:
    • If they are immediately available, they will be sent over as soon as possible (provided they have not gone out on loan by the time we go to the shelves to collect them).
    • If they are on loan, they will be held for you on their return and sent over. Don't forget that loans are not always returned on the date due or that there may be a queue for the one you want!
    • You will get a notification via your Bath Spa e-mail when they are ready to collect.
• Q: Can I get a print journal sent over from another campus?
  • A: As print journals are not loaned, we would normally expect you to go to the Library where it is located and use it there.
• Q: Can I return items by post?
  • A: If you are unable to return a library item in person, it may be returned by post. As you will remain responsible for the loan until it is discharged from your account, we recommend you use recorded delivery or get a certificate of posting and ensure you use the full postal address of the campus library.

Making enquiries

• Q: Who is my School Librarian?
  • A: There is a list of subjects and the School Librarians responsible for them on the Library web pages.
• Q: How do I get hold of them?
  • A: Phone numbers and e-mail addresses are on the page listed above or ask for a card with all your School Librarian's contact details on it.

Using the electronic services and e-books

• Q: I'm having problems getting into one of the electronic services, what do I do?
  • A: Are you trying to access a service at home that is only available from University? Check on the list of electronic services.
• Q: I've searched for journal articles and found some but I can't get the full text.
  • A: Some services such as the Education Service or MLA International Bibliography are only bibliographic - this means that they only give you the references to articles but not the full text. Check the list of e-services for information on the type of service.  Many publishers will not release the most recent 12 months' worth of full text for commercial reasons. Most services tell you when this is the case or show exactly what years of full text they have available.  If you do find a reference but not a full article and there is a Find It! button, click on it to see if the journal is available in one of the other services or in print.  You can also check the electronic journals listing.
• Q: I want to use the e-books but I'm having problems accessing them.
  • A: You need to log in with your Bath Spa network login as you do for the other electronic services.  Mac users should use Safari to access e-books.

Using other libraries, interlibrary loans

• Q: If the BSU Library hasn't got it, can I get a book or a journal article from another library?
  • A: Check out the Interlibrary Loans web page or pick up a card from the Desk. We are also members of a number of schemes that may be useful to you.
• Q: Can I use other university libraries?
  • A: Students on taught courses (including Masters and PGCE) can use some 170 higher education libraries for reference purposes through SCONUL Access. Part-time students may be able to have limited borrowing rights - check the SCONUL Access website.
  • A: If you want to use a library that is not a member of SCONUL Access, the SCONUL Vacation Access Scheme allows reference only access during the vacations of the host institution.
  • A: Academic staff and postgraduate researchers can join the SCONUL Access scheme with over 170 participating libraries on a basis that allows limited borrowing rights.
  • A: The Universities of Bath, Bristol and West of England are members of SCONUL Access.
  • A: You need to apply for these schemes via the Library: see the appropriate web pages for details. None of these schemes allow access to computers or electronic resources at the host institution.

Photocopying

• Q: How much does photocopying cost?
  • A: See photocopying facilities on the Library web pages.

Filming and photography in the libraries

• Q: Can I film or take photographs in the libraries?
• A:
We are often contacted by student groups who wish to film, take photographs or hold a performance in the Libraries and we do try to accommodate this requests if possible.  However, the purpose of Library and Information Services is to provide an environment that is conducive to study and it is our duty to ensure the safety of all Library users.  Therefore, it is vital that noise and disruption is kept to a minimum and that you comply with safety regulations.  In particular:
1. The photographs/film does not include pictures of others using the Library (unless the photographer has their written permission)
2. The photography/filming/performance does not disturb others using the Library
3. Access to books and other Library equipment is not unduly restricted.
4. There is no large-scale moving of furniture or stock.
5. The photography/filming/performance is done in a safe manner (e.g. no trailing cables); emergency exits and circulation routes must not be blocked and appropriate risk assessments for the activity are undertaken and submitted in advance to Director of Library Services.
6. The photography/filming/performance is done during Library opening hours and the group leaves promptly before closing.

Please complete this form to confirm that you and all persons involved will comply with the above conditions. You will then need to forward this and a completed risk assessment by email to Library and Information Services (library@bathspa.ac.uk). You need to detail the dates and activities planned, any risks involved and how these will be mitigated. You will also need to list the names of those undertaking this group work.

Click here for some helpful guidelines from the School of Music and Performing Arts on completing a risk assessment.

A member of Library staff will make a decision on whether to give permission and let you know by email.  You cannot proceed without permission.