Getting the Books and Articles You Need:

Directions for Distance Learning Students

Step One: Know What You Want
Step Two: Check Online Course Reserves and Electronic Resources
Step Three: Consider Your Geographic Location
Step Four: When All Else Fails -- Interlibrary Loan

Step One: Know What You Want

The information on this page cannot help you decide which materials you need. Use the web page about Using the Library or Researching a Term Paper for tips on how to do your research. Once you have a list of books and articles you want, visit this page for access information. 

Step Two: Check Online Course Reserves and Electronic Resources

Many online materials are available for distance learners from the Course Reserves section of Libraries' web site. They are searchable by the instructor's name or by the course number. A password provided by your instructor is required to access online reserves. A separate password is used for each course.

Requesting a Text Version Users with disabilities that preclude the use of PDF image files may request a text version of online reserve materials or articles in the OhioLINK Electronic Journal Center. Text file requests are usually available within 24 hours of request, Monday - Friday, except holidays. Text version request form. 

Step Three: Consider Your Geographic Location

If You Live Near Wright State University

You are entitled to the same privileges afforded to all Wright State students when you visit any of the WSU Libraries: the Paul Laurence Dunbar Library, the Fordham Health Sciences Library, and the Lake Campus Library. More information about visiting the University Libraries is available in the Hours and Location section of Libraries' web site.

If You Live Near Another OhioLINK College or University

Books
As a Wright State University distance learning student, you are entitled to select a conveniently located OhioLINK Library for delivery and checkout of books and audiovisuals. 

Use the  OhioLINK Central Catalog rather than the WSU catalog in the Libraries' web site to request items for delivery to another OhioLINK library.  Once you locate an item in the Central Catalog that you would like to borrow, select REQUEST THIS  ITEM. You will be prompted to indicate your institution, and then your name and ID number. Select the library where you want to pick up your material.  You will be notified by email or a printed notice when the item has arrived at the pickup location. 

Articles
OhioLINK libraries subscribe to many journals that you will be able to use in the library. Photocopy machines are generally available. You should not expect to be able to take journals out of the library. Check with library you are using for information about:

• The availability of photocopy machines
• The cost of copies
• Methods of payment accepted

Materials at Ohio Public Libraries
The Ohio Public Library Information Network OPLIN is a helpful starting point to locate a public library near you or to find their online catalog. Services and materials vary. Your Wright State University ID cannot be used to borrow from a public library.

If You are NOT an Ohio Resident
Your local public library can be a valuable resource. It may charge you a fee to borrow materials from other libraries. Many academic institutions offer community borrower cards. Most will charge a fee for this service. You may also check the holdings at other libraries. 

Step Four: When All Else Fails -- Interlibrary Loan

 If the material you need is not available by any of the methods in steps one through three, you may use Wright State Interlibrary Loan as your provider for book chapters and journal articles. Distance learning students will receive electronic delivery whenever possible. Copies of book chapters and journal articles requested through Interlibrary Loan are generally received at the Wright State University Libraries within 9 days. Expect delivery of those articles or copies of materials owned by the WSU Libraries within 2 working days.

Use the Interlibrary Loan Request form to place your request. Be sure to identify your status as a distance learning student. On the form, choose a home library of WSU-Fordham Health Sciences Library for all medical, nursing, professional psychology, biomedical, and other health-related material. Choose WSU-Dunbar Library for all other material.

Contact Information

 So that we may serve you better, please be sure to identify your self as a Distance Learning student and provide your name, telephone number, course number, and email address when contacting the Wright State University Libraries: