Using the Library

How do I get a library card?

CSN students may obtain a library card  at the circulation desk at any campus library by showing proof of current student status and a picture I.D. Library cards are valid for one academic year, so you may need to re-validate your card each fall or spring.

I have a public library card. May I use it at CSN?

Students and faculty must obtain a CSN library card  in order to take full advantage of the College's library resources.

How do I get a library card if I am not a CSN student or faculty member?

UNLV faculty or students may use their valid UNLV library card at CSN libraries. Residents of Clark County must have a valid library card from one of the local public libraries. The card may be brought to any CSN circulation library to be entered into our system as a "community borrower".

How many books may I check out?

There is no limit for students or faculty borrowers. Community borrowers may have 3 CSN items checked out on their card at any time.

May I renew my library materials over the phone?

No. Library materials must be renewed in person or by computer using the CSN Online Catalog.

May I renew library materials online by computer?

Yes. To renew library materials by computer, your library card must be in good standing. The system will block renewal if:

• Your card has expired
• You have overdue books
• You owe library fines
• The book is on "hold" for another patron
• You have already renewed a book the maximum number of times allowed
• It is too soon to renew the item

How do I renew library materials online by computer?

To renew library materials by computer, choose Find Books, Course Reserves... from the library home page. Under "Other Catalog Options", click on "View your circulation record":

• Type in your name and library card barcode number
• Click on "Display record for person named above"
• Click on "Items currently checked out"
• Click on "Renew all items"

All books that are renewed will say "Renewed" and will display the new due date.

Can I find my textbook at the library?

Generally, no. Student textbooks are sold in the campus book store. The library buys other books which supplement the textbooks assigned in class. Some instructors may choose to place their course textbook on reserve for students to use in the library for a limited time.

If the libraries at CSN or UNLV do not have what I need, how do I get it?

Student and faculty borrowers may use CSN's Document Delivery Service, also known as Interlibrary Loan, to request an item that is not listed in the CSN Online Catalog. "Interlibrary Loan Request Forms" are available at the circulation counter at each campus library. As a convenience, ILL requests may also be submitted directly online via the CSN Online Catalog (choose the Request a Document Delivery Item option from the main screen, and follow the onscreen instructions).

Can I return CSN library materials to other libraries?

CSN materials can be returned to any CSN campus library or UNLV's main library. UNLV materials may be returned to any CSN library. CSN and UNLV materials can NOT be returned to public libraries.

My instructor put articles on reserve for my class. Where do I find them?

Articles, books, or other items that an instructor wants the entire class to use are placed "on reserve" in the library so that everyone in the class has a chance to use them. You may search the CSN Online Catalog by "Course Reserves" to determine which campus library has the material, or simply ask your instructor. Go to the circulation desk at your campus library to request reserve materials.

Who do I talk to about a library overdue notice?

You can ask about your account at the circulation desk of any CSN campus library. You can also check your own record through the CSN Online Catalog. Under "Other Catalog Options", click on "View your circulation record". Type in your name, library card number and personal PIN.