First Year Writing - Multiple Instructors: Intro to the Library
Intro to Academic Libraries
Watch this video to learn about how the library fits into your classes and studies at the university.
Top 10 Things to Know about the Library
1. UW NetID + Password = Library Access
Use your UW NetID and password to access databases, request items in our catalog, and more. (This is the same user name and password that you use for email and Canvas.)
2. The Library is here for you, anytime, anywhere.
The library is open 82.5 hours each week, and our electronic resources never sleep. Our website has information on when we open, Reference Desk hours, and holiday closures.
3. Library Locations
The University of Washington Tacoma Library is located in two buildings on campus, connected by a sky bridge.
The Snoqualmie Building (SNO) has our media collection, laptops for checkout, the Reference Desk, and group study and practice presentation rooms.
The Tioga Library Building (TLB) has our main circulation desk (where you go to check out library books and pick up requested library items), course reserves, our collection of books, and quiet study areas.
4. Library Resources: One Library, 3 Campuses, and More
As a UW Tacoma student you have access to all UW Libraries materials—that’s over 8 million books and 300 databases! We are also part of a 37 academic library consortium which means you can request materials from these libraries, too.
5. If we don’t have it, we’ll get it!
If the item you want is still unavailable, you can use interlibrary loan service and we will search worldwide to find what you need.
6. Need technology? We have it.
The UW Tacoma Library has:
- 70 single-user computers,
- Group Study/Collaboration Spaces,
- 4 large screen collaboration spaces (SNO 136, open when instruction is not scheduled, no reservations required)
- 2 presentation spaces (SNO 139 and SNO 222c, reserve online)
- 2 Media:Scape group study rooms (SNO 152 and 153, reserve online)
- 2 group study rooms with large screen TVs (SNO 222a and SNO 222b, reserve online)
- and 18 laptops for students to use.
Your student technology fee pays for the single-use computers, laptops, and Media:Scape technology.
7. Looking for a place to start searching? Use Start Your Research.
Navigating through UW Library website’s many resources and services can be complex. Use the Start Your Research to begin your research.
8. Get Research Help
For assistance with your research project:
- Visit the SNO Reference Desk
- Call 253.692.4442
- Email tacref@uw.edu
- Chat with a Librarian (24/7)
- Schedule a research consultation with your Subject Librarian
- Get started by finding useful resources arranged by topic (research guides) or by course (class guides)
9. Learn about the LARC
The Learning and Research Commons (LARC) supports teaching, learning, conducting research, and the integrated use of technology. The LARC is located in the SNO building. Visit the LARC website to learn about printing, reserving group study rooms, starting your research, and making writing and tutoring appointments with the TLC.
10. We are here to help you.
Don’t waste time struggling, contact us with any questions you have.