Help - Library FAQ

General Help

What is the mission of the library?

The mission of the Ralph W. Steen Library is to offer an array of informational, educational and research support services intended to further the University’s mission of excellence in teaching, research, scholarship, creative work, and service. The official mission statement can be viewed at the Library Mission's page.

Where is the library?

The Ralph W. Steen Library can be found here on the campus map. (The library is #40 on the map.)

When is the library open?

Hours of operation for the library can be found in the "Library Hours" section of the library's Help page, located on the left side of the page towards the top. This section includes standard, and special/holiday hours.

Where can I find a map of the library?

A map can be found on the home page under the About Steen Library section. Just click on the Library Map link.

What is "My Account?"

Use “My Account” in the library’s Online Catalog to see what items you have checked out, if you owe a fine, or to place a hold on checked-out material. To use the “My Account” feature, contact the Steen Library or the Nacogdoches Public Library for assistance.

What rooms are available for meetings and group study?

Group study rooms on the 3rd and 4th floors are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are eight such rooms on the 3rd floor, and ten on the 4th floor. The Wyatt Room on the first floor can be reserved for university-related receptions, large group meetings, lectures, etc. Capacity seating ranges from 60 to 100 people. Contact the Circulation Desk (468-1497) to reserve the Wyatt Room. Interactive Library Map

Whom do I contact about getting my dissertation or thesis bound?

Contact Technical Services at 468-1671.

Where can I have a snack or beverage?

Einstein Brothers Bagels and a vending area are located just outside the main entrance of the library.

Are there telephones available for the general public?

There are two telephones available for public use in the library. They are near the Circulation Desk.

Are there soundproof rooms in the library?

Two soundproof rooms, equipped with listening equipment and electronic keyboards, are located in the Music/Audiovisual area on the 1st floor. Interactive Library Map

How do I schedule a library instruction class for my students?

Faculty may request a library instruction lecture for students by submitting the Request Library Instruction form or by contacting a research librarian. Sessions are typically held during scheduled class time in one of the library's computer classrooms, although some may be scheduled for other locations.

 

Research

Where can I get help with research?

Research librarians are available to assist you and can be contacted here.

What is the difference between a magazine article and a journal article?

A magazine article is one from a non-referenced publication that is published often with characteristics such as a lot of advertising, articles not signed, and no bibliography at the end of an article. (Example: Time, Newsweek, Business Week, etc.)

A journal article is one from a scholarly referenced publication that is published often with characteristics such as long articles with bibliographies, authors name given, and not a lot of advertising.

Where can I find full-text articles?

The Library Catalog search box will retrieve both books and articles on the desired topic. Many of the databases provide the entire text (full-text) of magazine and journal articles. Searches performed using the General Databases, which are listed at the top of each Subject Guides page, will usually find more full-text articles.

How do I find a journal when it is not full-text in the database?

Requests for titles not available in Steen Library can be submitted through Interlibrary Loan.  For more comprehensive instructions on finding your journal, click here.

Where are the children's books located?

They are on the 4th floor in the Curriculum Collection in the open area behind the elevators.

Where can I find dissertations and theses?

Dissertations & Theses (ProQuest) includes bibliographic citations for dissertations and theses worldwide, from 1861 to the present, with full-text access available for the newer titles, and abstracts available for the older titles.

What databases does the library subscribe to?

A complete listing of databases can be found here.

Where is the Maps Collection?

Maps are found on the 2nd floor adjacent to Academic Advising. Online map of 2nd floor.

How do I properly cite my sources?

For an in-depth explanation on formatting styles refer to Research Citation Information. Another great source is the AARC OWL – Online Writing Lab.

 

Computers and Technology

Where can I find computers in the library?

The Library Information Network Center and the LINC classroom together provide more than 130 networked computers. The LINC is located on the 1st floor of the library adjacent to the AARC. Infolab1 has 32 computers and Infolab2 has 29 computers; both labs come equipped with instructor stations. Infolab1 is on the 1st floor near the Circulation Desk. Infolab2 is in the northeast corner of the 2nd floor. Dedicated research stations are located throughout the library on all floors.

How much does it cost to print?

• B/W pages: 10 cents per page.
• Color pages: $1.00 per page.
• Regular Transparencies: 50 cents per transparency.
• Color Transparencies: $1.50 per transparency.
  
  

Simply print the document as you normally would, then tell an assistant at the LINC or Circulation Desk the station ID of the computer, as well as how many copies you want and if you want b/w or color prints.

What applications are available on the LINC computers?

Our computer lab and classrooms offer a wide variety of applications. All networked computers provide access to the Microsoft Office suite of products as well as Internet access, the Corel WordPerfect suite and applications installed at the request of faculty.

What services are available for disabled patrons?

An adaptive workstation with a screen magnifier, speech synthesizer and Braille printer is available in the LINC.

How do I reserve a technology classroom?

Faculty and staff can reserve the LINC classroom for university-related instructions or presentations by going to the following link: http://library.sfasu.edu/departments/accser/room-reservations/

What equipment is available for classroom instructors?

All technology classrooms have an instructor station with an attached projector. Infolab1 and infolab2 are each equipped with a SmartBoard.

How do I get my OpScan test graded?

OpScan tests must be dropped off at the LINC desk. The service is available Monday – Friday, from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm. Tests are accepted beginning the first day of class and until the day final grades are due each semester. Contact the OpScan desk (468-7066) for more information.

How do I access databases remotely?

Many research databases are available only to computers connected to SFA’s network. For remote users, or those using an Internet Service Provider, a proxy server allows access to these databases. The recommended way of using these services is to log in to your mySFA account and access the library’s web site from there. Students can also access the proxy by going directly to the library’s web site and choosing a database. You will be prompted to input a user id and password. Use your campus ID# and mySFA PIN to sign into the proxy server. For more information, visit our proxy page.

How do I obtain a computer guest account if I am not an SFA student or employee?

Guest accounts may be requested at the Circulation Desk. A library card or valid ID must be presented for an account to be authorized. Please allow 5 minutes from the time the account is approved until it becomes active. Public guest accounts are authorized for use only on the computers in the lobby of the library. For more information on obtaining guest accounts, including those for alumni and sponsored groups, please see http://library.sfasu.edu/help/guest-accounts/.

Is wireless internet access available in the library?

Yes! Students, faculty, and staff can access SFA’s wireless network anywhere in the library. Paper instructions for connecting to the network are provided at the LINC and Circulation desks.

Instructions for connecting your computer to SFA-WIRELESS network:

• Windows XP
• Windows 7 / Vista
• Macintosh OSX (10.5) Leopard

 

 

Tutoring (AARC)

What is SI?

Supplemental Instruction (SI) is an Academic Assistance and Resource Center (AARC) program comprised of study groups for historically difficult courses. These groups are led by students who have already made an A in those courses. For more information, visit http://www.umkc.edu/cad/si/video.shtml

Current listing of all SI's

What is peer tutoring?

Peer tutoring means that students are tutoring other students.

How much does it cost for the tutoring services in the AARC?

Tutoring is FREE.

Is tutoring available to anyone not affiliated with SFA?

Tutoring is limited to SFA students.

I tried signing up for a weekly appointment, and there were no appointments available for my course. I added myself to the waiting list. Are there any more tutoring options available to me?

Yes! Walk-in tables, SI Groups, and On-line tutoring do not require any appointment. Check out all the services available to you on the AARC Homepage.

How do I become a tutor?

Find the particular AARC program for the tutoring that you want to do: https://forms.sfasu.edu/AARC/tutor-application2.html
Feel free to ask a director a question about working at the AARC!

 

 

 

Access Services

How can I get access to my Library Account?

Contact the Circulation Desk for information on accessing and using My Library Account.

Where can I send or receive a fax?

Faxes can be sent or received at the Circulation Desk, located on the first floor to the left of the elevators as you enter the building. Online map

To Send a Fax:

• $1.00 per page out of town
• $0.50 per page in-town

To Receive a Fax:

• $1.00 first page
• $0.50 additional page

Public Fax Number: (936) 468-7296

Where can I find photocopiers or microfilm / microfiche readers?

Self-service copy machines are located in the Audiovisual room on the first floor and in the ETRC on the second floor. Cost per copy is 10 cents. Microfilm and fiche readers are located on all floors. Microfilm and fiche printers are located in the Audiovisual room. Cost per copy is 25 cents. In ETRC on the second floor digital images may be made from microfilm or microfiche these images may be copied to flash drive, e-mailed or printed to the laser printer.

Where can I find course reserves?

Traditional (Print) Reserves (search catalog by instructor or course)

The Traditional Reserve Collection includes print and audiovisual materials which circulate for shortened loan periods. Search for these materials in the Library’s catalog by the faculty or course name. Simply present a valid University ID to check out materials at the Circulation Desk.

Where can I find magazines and newspapers?

Current issues are available in the reserve room on the 1st floor while older issues are shelved by call# on the 3rd and 4th floors. Search the catalog to find the call# and location.

Many articles are available online, search journals@steen for availability.

Where can I find media, such as audio and video recordings?

Audio and/or video CD and DVD recordings are available from the Circulation Desk. Search the catalog for the call #.

Does the library have a TDD?

Yes; the Library has a TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf). It is available at the Circulation Desk (468-4538) and can be checked out for 2 hours and used with the public phones.

Can I return Nacogdoches Public Library books to Steen Library?

Yes; Steen Library accepts and process materials borrowed from NPL, and books borrowed from Steen Library can be returned to NPL as well.

Can I renew materials online?

Renewals can be made using My Account in the Online Catalog as long as the item is not overdue, in person at the Circulation Desk or by calling the Circulation Desk (468-1497).

How long can I borrow books and other library materials?

Most books have a 21 day loan period. Reserve and other materials have shorter periods. Check with the Circulation Desk for specific lengths of time materials can be borrowed.

How many times can I renew a book?

Material may be renewed as long as there are no holds and the borrower’s record has not been blocked.

What are the fines for overdue books and materials?

Fines for items with loan periods of three weeks or longer are 10 cents per day, with 1-day grace period.

Fines for items with loan periods varying from overnight to less than three weeks are 50 cents per day, with no grace period.

Fines for items with hourly loan periods are .60 cent per hour.

Maximum fine per item is $10.00.

Can I borrow materials from other libraries?

To request items not available in Steen Library, use ILLiad -- the InterLibrary Loan Ordering System.

Where do I check out books?

Books can be checked out at the Circulation Desk, located on the first floor. Online map

What is the difference between a “hold” and a “recall”?

Both apply to materials that have been checked out. Items with a 21-day or longer loan period may have a hold placed on them. A recall may be placed on any item that has been checked out more than 21 days. Faculty may place an immediate recall on an item to be placed on Reserve.

How do I place a hold on a book?

A hold may be placed in person at the Circulation Desk, by sending an e-mail message to circdesk@sfasu.edu, or by clicking on “request item” or “request copy” when you’ve identified your book in the Online Catalog. Note you must have signed up for “My Account” to place a hold using the catalog.

What is a “trace”?

If you are unable to locate an item identified in the Online Catalog as being checked-in, contact the Circulation Desk to trace the item for you. You will be notified when the item is located.

How do I donate books?

If you have something you would like to share with the library, please contact the Technical Services area at 468-5187.

What should I do if I lose a book?

All borrowers are expected to pay the replacement cost for lost or damaged items, plus a $10 processing fee per item. Overdue fines are not included in the replacement cost.

Where can I return my books?

Please return items to the Steen Library Circulation Desk on the first floor, the book drop located on the north side of Steen Library, or to the Nacogdoches Public Library.

How and where can I pay a library fine?

Fine payments are accepted at the Circulation Desk, located on the first floor. Online map
The library accepts Jack Bucks, cash or check. Checks can be mailed to Steen Library Circulation Desk, Box 13055 SFA Station, Nacogdoches, Tx. 75962.

What if I pay for a lost book and then find it?

Refunds are available if the lost book is returned within 6 months. Contact the Circulation Desk (468-1497) for more information. The $10.00 handling fee for a lost book is non-refundable.

What should I do if I get an overdue notice for a book which I have already returned?

Contact the Circulation Desk (468-1497) immediately.

 

East Texas Research Center

What collections are available?

For a full list of collections see the ETRC site.

How do I request copies of archived material?

Please contact the ETRC at (936) 468-4100 for pricing and delivery options.

When is the East Texas Research Center open?

The ETRC is open from 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday, as well as from 10am to 5pm on Saturdays.

What materials are housed in the ETRC?

The ETRC contains materials relating to East Texas in general-- both corporate and personal.

How do I donate materials to the ETRC?

If you have something you would like to share with the ETRC, please contact the ETRC's desk at 936-468-4100.

Can I borrow materials from the ETRC?

Currently, only county records on microfilm can be borrowed from library-to-library. All other material must be used in the ETRC.

What is the oldest item in the ETRC?

The ETRC houses documents dating back to 1647.

How can I research my family history?

The ETRC can help you research your family history! This task is more easily performed when you know names of relatives as far back as possible. The ETRC can trace family trees as far as the US Census records will show. You can view them yourself using Heritage Quest.

If I have an in-depth question that may take some time to answer, can the ETRC answer it?

For detailed people searches, the ETRC has a list of researchers who are willing to take on requests. These services are fee based.

If I loan materials to the ETRC, can I reacquire them later?

Although no loan material will be accepted, certain contributions to the archive can be digitized, and the original returned shortly thereafter.

Does the ETRC also keep historical artifacts?

The ETRC only archives historical records-- artifacts can be found at the Stone Fort Museum.

Does the ETRC welcome storytellers?

Absolutely! Please call the ETRC desk at (936) 468-4100 for details on how to share your story with us.

Where can I find answers to questions regarding records retention?

Visit our site for a detailed description, schedule, and forms.

What is Digital Archives and Collections?

Digital Archives and Collections mission is to provide virtual access to archival material that supports the educational and research goals of Stephen F. Austin State University through the collaborative efforts of East Texas community members and other institutions. The East Texas Research Center at SFASU, which maintains Digital Archives & Collections, provide digital copies of photographs, documents, maps, books and other archival materials associated with the East Texas geographical region from the Gulf of Mexico north to the Red River and east of the Trinity River to Western Louisiana, which was once part of Texas. The digitized material is freely available to students, teachers and the general public for their historical and genealogical research.

If I have something to add to Digital Archives and Collections, whom do I contact?

The ETRC department can be reached at (936) 468-4100 or askdigital@sfasu.edu.