Resources for a Successful Spring Semester
As we start a new semester, be sure to check out just are just some of the library resources that can help you dive into your course work, get a head start on your research projects, and find what you need for a successful spring semester.
If you don’t see what you need below or have a question about any resource, just ask: ask@bu.edu.
Map of BU Libraries: If you are visiting a new library branch, looking for a study area, trying to find a particular book, our floor plans can help you navigate our spaces. Most floor plans show the resources available, the types of study spaces, and the call number ranges in that area. Can’t find what you are looking for? Stop by the Library Services Desk to ask for help.
Reservable Study Rooms: Reservable spaces are available across BU Libraries locations for individual study or group work.
The BU Libraries branches also offer a variety of seating options and noise levels so you can find the study spot that best meets your needs. Open study spaces offer three zones of noise levels—silent, considerate, and collaborative—to accommodate different needs.
Ask a Librarian: BU Librarians are here to help you at every step of the research process. Librarians can help you develop a search strategy and find scholarly sources, show you how to use resources and tools, and answer questions about the research process.
Just ask a Librarian! Visit askalibrarian.bu.edu to call, chat, text, email, or set up an one-on-one appointment with a librarian.
BU Libraries Search: The BU Libraries provide a wide variety of high-quality scholarly materials, including academic databases, eJournals, eBooks, and print resources, scores, video and audio recordings, and other items. BU Libraries Search provides a single place to search these collections. The BU Libraries offers tutorials and FAQ’s you help get the most out of BU Libraries Search. Review basic search tips, familiarize yourself with Advanced Search, and learn how to work with search results.
If you need materials beyond the BU Libraries collections, we may be able to obtain them from another library for you. Learn about making an Interlibrary Loan request.
BU Libraries 2 Go: Once you find what you need from our collection online, you can request the books and other materials be ready for you to pick up at our library locations. Learn more about our BU Libraries 2 Go service.
Library Tools and Guides: Whether you need guidance on choosing a research topic, finding sources, or writing your paper, BU Libraries’ guides can help you get a head start on research papers and projects with topic- and class-specific resources. If you aren’t sure where to begin, use BU Libraries How-To Guides to get started with the research process and research more effectively. If you need help, meet with a subject specialist librarian. Don’t forget to use a citation manager to make citing, storing, and organizing references easy.
Special Collections
The Howard Gotlieb Archival Research Center at the BU Libraries is the University’s central repository for archives, personal papers, and rare books. Its collections include the papers of notable individuals, the records of organizations, and rare books. Learn more about our special collections, make an appointment for archival research, and visit one of our curated exhibitions.