Library Services & Collections for Study Abroad

Before you visit any library for research, start by checking their collections to see if they have what you need. The best place to begin is the catalog for the library, usually available from their website. It will tell you the location and availability of the item.

Suggested Resources

Identification

• UChicago ID card
• “Government-sponsored” ID
  Passport, Driver’s License, etc.

Proof of Need

• If another library requires a letter or other documentation from the University of Chicago Library, you may request such documentation from the ID & Privileges Office.
• You may need a letter from the program coordinator or your thesis advisor (on University letterhead)
• A prepared statement about your research

Libraries can differ greatly around the world. Here are some things to consider:

• Libraries may only be open to researchers, not for study space.
• You will be unlikely to check out materials (unless your Study Abroad site has made special arrangements)
• Many libraries do not allow wireless or computer access for visitors
• Not every database to which a library subscribes will be available to visitors
• Many academic libraries are very decentralized, with specific libraries for departments or residential colleges.
• Most libraries have "closed stacks", meaning that you will need to request an item to be paged.
• Materials may be organized in different ways (e.g. different classification systems).
• Libraries may not have online catalogs or reference services.
• There may be fees for services or access
• Most materials will not be online (this is also true in the U.S.!)