Library Service Frequently Asked Questions for Spring 2025: Library Service FAQ

Thurgood Marshall Library, along with the 17 libraries across the University System of Maryland and Affiliated Institutions (USMAI), have implemented a new integrated library system (ILS), Primo, that is now live!  Visit the Alma/Primo Announcement.

Circulation Services

• When is the library open?
• What do I use to search for books and articles after OneSearch retired?
• How do I access BSU Discovery?
• How do I access Library databases from home?
• Where can I find my 14 digit Library Number?
• How do I access Databases?
• How can I find my access password to use the Library databases?
• How can I check out books at the Library? I'm an online program student.
• How do I request books from other USMAI libraries?
• How do I check out books from other USMAI libraries?
• How do I return checked out books?
• How long can I borrow materials from Thurgood Marshall Library and other libraries within the USMAI?
• How do I renew checked out books?
• How much are overdue fines and lost book replacement charges for Thurgood Marshall Library and other USMAI libraries?

Library Resources 

• How can I access Course Reserve books?
• Does the library have textbooks I can borrow?
• Can I go to the library to photocopy/scan books and documents?
• How do I find an E-Books?
• Are there any Free E-Books (Open Access Books)?
• How do I find an article?
• Are there any streaming videos at the Library?
• What online encyclopedia and dictionary I can use?

ILL - Interlibrary Loan 

• What is Interlibrary Loan service?
• Who can use Interlibrary Loan?
• How can I use the Interlibrary Loan Service?
• What types of materials can be requested through Interlibrary Loan?
• Is there a charge or fee for Interlibrary Loan?
• How long does it take for my Interlibrary Loan requests to be filled?
• Why was my Interlibrary Loan request cancelled?
• What is the Interlibrary loan period for requested items/materials?
• How will I get notified that my ILL requests have arrived?
• Whom Do I contact if I have a problem with Interlibrary Loan or ILLiad?

Reference & Information Services

• What librarian's support can I have for my term/research paper?
• How do I make an appointment for my research?

Library Building 

• Can I go to the library study area with my classmates?
• Are Study Rooms available?
• How can I access Special Collection / Archives?
• How can I use Curriculum Lab and their books?

Information for Faculty

• How do I request library Instruction for my class?
• How do I request the Library to purchase books/e-books? 
• How do I request Library Faculty Research Carrel?
• How to allocate Course Reserve materials?
• Does the Library accept book donations?