Subject Guides: Library Research 101: Start Your Research: Books--what are they and where are they?

What is a book?

The Collins Dictionary defines a book as, "...a number of pieces of paper, usually with words printed on them, which are fastened together and fixed inside a cover of stronger paper or cardboard. Books contain information."

In an academic context many times books will contain in-text citations and a reference list. Books with edited chapters will often contain in-text citations and a reference list for each chapter.

Books can be in print or in electronic form (more commonly known as ebooks).

Where can I find a book?

Where can I find a book or ebook?

In the library
- in the library in the stacks (for print books)
Use the library catalog to search for books
- Some of the ways you can find books are by searching for their title, author, ISBN number, etc.
- You can access ebook titles that show UM Orono/Machias Access or UM Systemwide Access options
- Ebooks are accessible by clicking on the title of the book and then clicking on the Access link beneath the call number
- To access an ebook you will need to login with your UMaine credentials
- You can find the book's call number using the library catalog (for print books)
- Use the call number to find a book in the library stacks (for print books)
To check out a print book
- Use your student ID
- Books can be checked out at the desks at the entrance doors or at the Reserve desk in the first floor Reading Room

Where are the stacks located?

See the Fogler Library Map

What if I want to borrow a book not found in Fogler Library?

Follow this tutorial to find out how to request a book found in the library catalog, but not here at Fogler
Follow this tutorial to find out how to request a book found in MaineCat, which includes many libraries in Maine