LibGuides: COVID-19 Library Updates: Getting Started

Covid

WE'RE STILL HERE TO HELP YOU!

We're just doing it a little bit further away than 6 feet....

We'll keep updating this guide as situations change & information comes in, so please keep checking back.

Before You Ask...

Have something checked out? There's a Library Book Drop located outside the Library (Main 170). Cincinnati State items that are currently checked out and will have due dates that fall during this period of remote services will have their due dates extended until June 1, 2021. (see your email for details, or Login to Library Account). Items that were already overdue will be examined on a case-by-case basis once regular services are restored.
Can I still check out Cincinnati State books? You may request Cincinnati State books for "Library Pickup". Once you get an email saying the item is available, just come to our doors (Main 170) during Library PickUp hours & call us so we know you're there.
Can I have books delivered from other Ohio Libraries? Yes, you may request items from OhioLINK & SearchOhio for pickup at CIncinnati State, then follow the same process as regular C-State Library Pickup.
I have books checked out from OhioLINK & they are saying they are overdue. What do I do? We are not able to change the due dates on OhioLINK items, but will work with you to ensure the best outcome once things return to "normal-ish". Librarians are nice people, we swear. Note: all OhioLINK items must also be returned by June 1, 2021 for us to adjust your account.
Can I just go to the public library? Please check the website of your local public library to confirm the services & hours that are available.
What about the course reserves? Unfortunately, we also can not provide remote access to the textbooks that we check out for library use. If you have been relying on our course reserves for your studies, you may want to ask your fellow students for help gaining access to the text. Your instructor can not legally provide you with a copy of the material if it exceeds copyright restrictions, but you should also let him/her know if you are having issues.

So how else do I get books?

Use our eBook platforms to find books you may access online.

Can I come in just to use the computers? No, our physical library is totally closed. We hate how hard this makes it for those of you that come in regularly to use our computing resources (shout out to Mike!), but have to put everyone's health & safety first. Please contact your instructor ASAP if you do not have access to home Internet/computing and will need alternative means of completing your course.
Is there a different computer lab I can use on campus? The open computer lab in ATLC 316 is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8am to 4:30pm, and on Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 6:30pm.
What about the group study rooms? These are also currently closed. If members of your group have Internet access, you may want to try Google Hangouts, Skype, Oovoo, etc. for a free way to connect and collaborate online.
Then, how do I print? You will likely be submitting most of your assignments online (if you have Internet access). If you need to print copies, you may need to visit the college's open computer lab in ATLC 316 or visit your local public library.

Whether you need books, articles, or academic videos, we've got you covered for 24/7 online access, anywhere that you have an Internet connection. You WILL need to know your 7-digit College Id to access most of our resources from off-campus (may be found in Bb on your registration statement), but that's it. Top starting points for online research include:

Library Guides Find the guide most suited to your course and/or subject & you'll also find the best databases to research, as well as video and step-by-step tutorials.
Research Databases If your Instructor is requiring sources from a specific database, visit our A-Z listing for a quick connection.
Online Reference Shelf (statistics, dictionaries, encyclopedias, etc.)
eBooks Find books that you can access online.
Films on Demand Find streaming videos on academic and biographic topics.

Open Computer Lab
The open computer lab in ATLC 316 is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8am to 4:30pm, and on Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 6:30pm.
Home Internet
Spectrum Internet: free Internet for 60 days to households with K-12 or college students.
Call 1-844-488-8395.
Wi-Fi Hotspots
Wi-fi hotspots available for use from Spectrum & Cincinnati Bell for free.
Call 513-369-6900 to check one out today.
Late Fees
Cincinnati Bell is waiving late fees & disconnections for 60days.
Call 1-888-246-2355 to enroll.

Need a break from academics? The Public Library of Cincinnati & Hamilton County has you covered with virtually (get it?) everything you need, including movies, audiobooks, eBooks, & music...all for free.

Already have a Public Library Card? Log-In Here.
If you have a current card for the Public Library of Cincinnati & Hamilton County, use the above link to log-in to your account & start downloading items today.
Don't Have a Public Library Card Yet? Apply Here.
Use the link for "Downloadable Only Card" to get started right away with your 3 week, temporary card.

We are here to help! We've been serving off-campus users remotely since, well, since there was an Internet, but we know this is new to many of you. Below are links to some of our online library guides that may help you find the resources you & your students need.

Faculty Guide
Visit the "Library Video Tutorials" page (under Improving Student Research) to find & embed tutorials on how to use our most popular databases. The "Blackboard Integration"pages demonstrate how to include articles, videos & library guides directly within your Bb course site.
Open Educational Resources (OER) Guide
Visit the OER guide for top links on finding open access resources for your classes. The OERCommons also includes modules, interactive activities, & simulations you can include in your course.
Academic & Educational Guide (Stanford)
Focuses on copyright in regards to academic fair use.
Guidelines for Educators (pdf)
Guidelines from the United States Copyright Office.

Our Online Library: Spring 2021

Looking for a printable overview of our online resources that you can share? Click the image at the left, or use the link below for a pdf.

Spring 2021 Library Resources

Get Help

Let us help you!

Email us! Send an email to library.cincinnatistate.edu from your Cincinnati State email address. We will respond as quickly as possible during our staffed hours, but replies may take up to 24 hours, depending on staffing.
Note: emails sent from other domains (gmail, yahoo, etc.) will be rejected because of group settings.
Text Us! Shoot us a text at 513.ASK.4466. Your text will be routed through our instant messaging platform, so our replies will be limited to 160 characters, and only returned during our staffed hours.
Instant Message! Use the box below to to start getting help from one of our dedicated librarians. We're here for you!

Instant Message

Problems viewing the chat box? Use our Instant Message Popout".

Need More Help?

Have a librarian work one-on-one with you via Zoom! Appointments are available two weeks out & must be made within 24 hours of the desired appointment time. Hope to see you soon!

COVID-19 Library Updates: Getting Started