FAQs
that we are delighted to answer for you here.
General information
How do I get a library card?
- Members of the physics institutes can get a library card from the Librarian. You will also need this card to borrow items.
Who should I contact if I have any questions?
- Either the Librarian (in her office in Room 134) or a student assistant (at the desk next to the cloakroom) will be on hand during general opening hours. In a (genuine) emergency outside these hours, please contact Dr. Andreas Wißkirchen or the Theory Office.
Is there a cloakroom?
- Yes, by the entrance. It also has 10 lockers for you to use.
Exits
- The main exit leading to the Institute of Physics is locked outside of opening hours and after 5 pm. Please use the exit to the Lecture Hall 1 stairwell (in the room with the photocopier) at these times. Never press the alarm button.
Borrowing
What does the Handbibliothek (HB) mean?
- The “HB” shelves contain highly popular books, one copy of which must always be present in the library. This means that they cannot be borrowed. If you would like to borrow one of these items, please search for it using the corresponding standard shelf mark (e.g. 4.0 for textbooks on theoretical physics).
Who is allowed to borrow items?
- Only members of the physics institutes who hold an appropriate library card can borrow items. All other users may only consult books on site.
What kinds of item can I borrow?
- Members of the physics institutes can borrow any book. Please talk to the Librarian if you are interested in volumes of periodicals.
How do I borrow items?
- Place your library card and your books on the loan terminal by the window and follow the instructions.
Can I take books home with me?
- Certainly not. You can only consult books at your workstation.
Where and when can I return items?
- Books can be returned at the loan terminal at any time. Once you have done that, please place them on the table next to the terminal (i.e. do not put them back on the shelf).
How many times can I renew the books I have borrowed?
- You can keep books that you have borrowed at your workstation until they are demanded back or required elsewhere.
How long are the borrowing periods? How can I tell when my book is due back?
- There are no fixed borrowing periods.
How much do I have to pay if my book is overdue?
- Failing to respond to a reminder will incur an overdue fine of €2 per week.
How can I reserve a book that is currently on loan?
- If the book you are looking for is currently on loan, you can look on one of the PCs to see who has borrowed it and potentially get in touch with them. If they can spare the book, they should return it first of all (i.e. please do not simply hand it over to the other person). Do not hesitate to contact the Librarian if you need to.
How can I order items from other departmental libraries?
- Members of the physics institutes are asked to contact the Librarian, while all other users should get in touch with the USL directly.
Computers, printing and photocopying
Are there any PC workstations in the library?
- Yes, two PCs with Linux.
Can I do any photocopying and printing in the library?
- The photocopier is free to use. There is also a printer for the two PCs.
How do I go about printing documents in the library?
- The printer in the library is set as the default printer for the two Linux PCs.
Can I get onto the Internet on my own laptop?
- Yes, there is Wi-Fi.
