Library Services for Online Learners

The primary mission of the White Library is to provide members of Spring Arbor University's academic community access to resources that support instruction and research, and to enhance information literacy among its users.

• Service Guidelines Learn about available services
• Library Catalog Locate materials owned by SAU

Reference Assistance: Get help with research

• Article Databases - Locate journal articles
• Book and Article Requests - Request items online
• Internet Resources - Link to Internet research tools
• Research Guides - Access instructional handouts
• Resources for Communication Research - Databases, web links and other tools specific to communication

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search for materials at Spring Arbor University's White Library?

All the materials (books, videos, etc.) available for check out at the White Library are listed in the library catalog. Access the catalog from here or return to the Library Services page and select the library catalog link.

Do I need a library card to check out materials?

No, online students do not have to have a physical library card. Your SAU student ID number is used for checking out materials. For details on the circulation of materials, see the Service Guidelines section of this website.

Where do I locate journal article citations and full-text articles?

The library subscribes to several journal databases that allow students to search for citations and access some full-text articles. You may access the databases from here or by returning to the Library Services page and selecting the article databases link.

How do I know what research tools are available directly related to communication?

A listing of resources specific to communication is available here.

How do I request items from the library?

There are several options for requesting materials from the library

• Library phone number: 800.968.9103 (library circulation desk)
• Library fax number: 517.750.2108

You may also use the online Request Form. Please remember to provide a complete bibiographic citation with your requests. This helps the library serve you better. Make sure you include your name, ID number, address and any other contact information you think we may need. Requested materials will be sent to students' homes. A return label will be included; students are responsible for return postage. Please return your materials on time to avoid any overdue fines.

How do I obtain materials NOT owned by the library?

When White Library does not own the items needed, students may request materials through interlibrary loan, a cooperative sharing system among libraries nationwide. Requests may be made as noted above (How do I request materials from the library?). Or, students may contact the interlibrary loan technician as follows:

Angie Hiler, Interlibrary Loan Technician
800.968.9103, ext. 1439
ahiler@arbor.edu

Please allow additional time for obtaining interlibrary loan materials. It generally takes from 7-14 days to get these items, which are sent directly to students' homes. Articles do not have to be returned, but books must. A return label will be included; students are responsible for return postage. Please return books on time. Fines are assessed for overdue interlibrary loans.

Who do I contact for help?

For assistance with research:

Call 800-968-9103, ext. 1742, or email.

For questions about the circulation of library materials:

Lois Hunt, circulation supervisor:
800.968.9103, ext. 1442
lhunt@arbor.edu