What do I need to checkout books?
All you need is your Argosy University picture ID to verify that you are a current full-time, half-time, or part-time student. Alumni are also allowed borrowing privileges. See "library policies" for more information about alumni borrowing privileges.
 

How do I find what I need in the library?
The library’s webpage,  located at www.auchicagolib.org  provides step-by-step directions for finding books, articles, videos, assessment materials, and dissertations. Finding aids are also available in print in the library.

Accessing many of our online resources requires a password, which can be obtained in the library circulation and reference desks. Or e-mail auchilibrary@argosy.edu or call 312-777-7653.
 

I am a distance student, and cannot make it to the library in person. How can I get library materials and assistance?

The library catalog and all subscription databases are accessible online. A great number of articles and other resources can be found full-text in one of the library's online subscription databases. The library also hasmany online books available through our online catalog. Books, videos, and other printed resources can be mailed to your home at no charge. Just call or e-mail us! Any materials not online and not owned by the library can be ordered through interlibrary loan and mailed to your home address.

Reference help is also available for students who cannot come in person to the library, either via e-mail or phone. When inquiring via e-mail, a reference librarian will get back to you within 24 hours in most cases.

How do I get a specific reference question answered?
You are encouraged to consult with the librarians concerning your research needs.  If you have a question or need search assistance, the librarians are available during most open hours. The Circulation Desk is staffed by student employees during all hours that the library is open. Student employees are able to assist with basic directional or technical assistance needs.

You are also encouraged to call or email reference requests to the librarians, especially if you are a remotely located student.

What is kept behind the Circulation Desk?
Reserved books and readings assigned by professors for each course, as well as some frequently requested reference materials and testing forms.

Why can't I checkout reserve/reference materials or journals?
Items are placed on Reserve because they have been assigned for a course and we anticipate a high demand. Use of the item is limited to in-library use only so that all students have a chance to use the material.  Reference materials and journals are items that may be used frequently for short periods of time.  They need to stay in the library so that all may have access.
 

Can I use my personal laptop in the library?
Yes. However, we cannot provide Internet access for personal laptops yet. Only library laptops have networked access and are available for checkout at the circulation desk.

 

Where can I find the most recent issues of the journals?
Most recent issues of journals are on display on the slanted periodical shelves. The back issues of the journals are shelved either below the slanted shelf (current year) or in the stacks organized alphabetically by title. If you have trouble finding a particular issue, please consult library staff.

Also, be sure to check the Library’s Periodicals Holdings List to find out whether or not we carry a particular title.  The A-Z Journal List link on the library’s homepage will assist you in determining whether or not a publication has full-text available through our subscription databases, or whether the item is in print in the library.

What can I do if I can't find a book/video/journal in the Argosy University Library System?

The librarians are available to assist you in successfully locating appropriate materials.  If an item is identified that is located outside the Argosy system, interlibrary loan services are available through the Argosy University, Chicago Campus Library.  Additionally, students are often  able to access other local academic libraries for on-site usage. You also may check your local community library for materials not housed in the Argosy system.
 

How do I request interlibrary loans?

If you cannot locate your book or journal within the Argosy University system, we offer an interlibrary loan service that connects us with thousands of libraries worldwide.  Forms are available at the Circulation Desk, as well as through an online form available through our library website. 
 

Where can I return books when I'm finished with them?
You can drop off items at the library Circulation Desk when the library is open.  If it is after hours, you can drop off your items in the Book Drop located outside of the library.
 

Is there a photocopier available?
Yes. There are three photocopiers in the library that are used with a copy card. Photocopies are $ .10/ page.

How do I get a copy card?
You can purchase your copy card for $.50 at the card machine next to the photocopier. You then charge up your copy card with dollar bills (machine accepts ones, fives, tens, and twenties). When you make copies, your copy card is automatically debited. You can recharge your copy card at any time.

How much are the fines and why do we have to pay them?

Fines for most materials are $0.15 per day, but we have a 2 day grace period during which no fines are charged.  Reserve materials have a $2.00 per hour fine, after a 30 minute grace period.  Fines are used as a reminder that the resources here are shared and meant to be used by many users. 
 

What if I still can't find what I need to know?
Ask the library staff, either by e-mail, phone or in person. Please click here for contact information.

 

Library Hours

Mon.-Thurs     8:30 am - 9:00 pm

Fri.                  8:30 am - 6:30 pm

Sat.                 9:00 am - 6:30 pm

Sun.                9:00 am - 6:30 pm