Help: FAQ

General Questions

1. What are your hours?
   • Shafer Library's hours change throughout the academic year.  Click here to view our current hours of operation.
2. Can I use the library if I am not a student?
   • Absolutely!  You are welcome to use our space during regular operating hours.  Please visit our Alumni & Community page for more information.
3. How do I contact the library?
   • You can contact us via phone, text, email, virtual chat, or in person.  Click here to view our contact information.
4. Can I study in the library?
   • Yes!  We have three floors that contain study spaces.  Click here to learn more about our study room policies.

For Students, Faculty, & Staff

1. How do I access Shafer Library off-campus?
   • There are several ways to access the library off-campus, including database and catalog access and virtual appointments with a librarian.  For more information on off-campus access, visit our Off Campus Access page.
2. Does the library have printing stations?
   • Students, faculty, and staff may print using the library's computer lab or our print release stations.  See our Printing on Campus page for more information.
3. Can I order my textbooks through the library?
   • Textbooks must be ordered through the university bookstore.  You may search our catalog for any textbooks you may need, but they are not necessarily guaranteed since they can be requested by other patrons.
4. Is the library hiring?
   • Shafer Library hires student workers to assist with daily library operations.  It is a great opportunity to gain professional experience!  You must be currently enrolled at the University of Findlay as an undergraduate or graduate student in order to be eligible.  Open positions are posted on the University of Findlay's Student Employment page, and hiring is conducted during the academic year.  It is recommended that you check this page often as open positions are added.
5. What is my library barcode number?
   • Your library barcode is a personal barcode number assigned to you that lets you request library materials through the UF Library Catalog and the OhioLINK Catalog.  You can find your barcode number on the front of your university ID card.  It is located at the bottom and has 12 digits.  You will want to keep this in a safe place, and do not share your personal barcode number with anyone!  Click here for more information about requesting materials through OhioLINK.
6. How long can I keep a library book, and are there fines for having overdue books?
   • Please visit our Borrowing Library Materials page for the most updated information on library fines and borrowing materials.
7. Where can I return borrowed library books?
   • Returned books can either be brought to the front desk during our operating hours, or be dropped in the book depository located outside of the library's entrance.
8. Can I request a librarian to visit one of my courses?
   • Yes!  Please fill out our Library Instruction Request Form, and your school's librarian will contact you directly.

For Alumni & Community Members

1. I am not a student or faculty member.  Can I still use the library?
   • You are welcome to use our space during regular operating hours as well as your own laptop to search our collection of databases.  You may also register a card with us for checking out books, but they are not required if materials do not leave the library.  You can learn more about alumni and community benefits here.
2. Can I still access the library off-campus as a UF graduate?
   • As a UF graduate, you will need to visit the library to get access to the library's databases and other electronic resources.

For College Credit Plus (CCP) Students

1. Can I use the library as a CCP student?
   • As a CCP student, you have access to the same resources as other UF students.  Click here to learn more about getting started as a CCP student.