Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I find anything useful when I search the Internet?

Information and Internet specialists try to design systems that will be easy to use and ultimately useful to Internet searchers. They have used old models for new media and as a result, there are many problems for searchers. It is important to remember that search engines search lists of words which have been indexed; if you are having trouble getting results, use synonyms, spelling variations, and more general terms. Sometimes the case (capital/lowercase letters) is important; sometimes it's not. Search tips, hints, and guidance are available in abundance on the Internet. Sometimes walking away from the search for a time, getting some fresh air, changing your perspective will help, too, when you get back to your search.

I am in a distance learning class and I need library help. What should I do?

Coastline Library provides several avenues for students needing assistance. Curriculum Links provides access to Internet sites which support Coastline curriculum. If you need assistance with Internet use, several sites listed in the Library Information and Instruction section provide tips, directions, and suggestions for conducting an Internet search. CalWest Libraries gives you access to the library catalogs at libraries within the CalWest Consortium (a help option is available on the CalWest Libraries home page. The Ask The Librarian option lets you pose a specific question or request assistance developing a research strategy. The librarian will respond to your request within 72 hours; don't wait until the last minute to ask for help.

How can I get copies of magazine articles for a report I'm writing?

If you know which articles you want, you will have to go to a library which subscribes to the periodicals in which the articles appear. Information on periodical holdings at CalWest Libraries is available online. If you are unable to locate the required periodicals, traditional libraries usually offer inter-library loan services, which may include obtaining magazine articles. Coastline Library does not yet offer this service. Some articles are available via the Internet. While some of these articles are free of cost, others may be quite costly.

My local public library does not have the books and periodicals I need for my course work. What should I do?

As a student at Coastline, you may obtain a library card at any of the CalWest Libraries (Golden West, Cypress, Orange Coast, and Fullerton community colleges). For a fee, you may obtain a short term library card at the University of California - Irvine library. If you live outside of southern California, check with local academic institutions (community colleges and universities); for a small fee, many will extend library privileges to the public. Remember, too, that most public libraries offer inter-library loan services. There is usually a fee for these services (from $.50 to $20.00) and there is a delay in delivery of the item (a few days to several weeks), but when you really need a resource, this may be the only way to get it.

Is your question not here? Try Asking the Librarian.

You may also ask your question of the Librarian at Library Chat Live Wednesdays from 4:30-5:00 PST.

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