Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check out books in the reference collection?

No. All books in the Business Library are part of the reference collection and do not circulate outside the Business Library. You may use them as much as you like within the Business Library but they cannot be taken out of the library. Please note that photocopiers are available for public use.

Do you have: [this book, item]?

Any book or other item located in the Business Library's reference collection is listed in the Earl Gregg Swem Library online catalog. There is also an online catalog terminal located in the Business Library.

To find items that are specifically located in the Business Library, select Business (PRC) from the Select Library menu on the Library Catalog search screen.

How do I log onto the Mason School of Business server?

Undergraduate students must be logged onto the Mason School of Business server by one of the staff members in the Business Library.

Faculty, staff and graduate students may log themselves on by using their Mason School of Business user name and password using the Remote Desktop Connection applet in Microsoft Windows.

What does it mean when an item is on reserve?

An item that is on reserve is available to anyone who needs to use it. The item is placed on reserve by a faculty member so that all students in his or her class may have equitable access to it. More than one copy of each item may be available.

A patron may check out an item that is on reserve for a limited time. All reserve items are available at the Business Library Information Desk. Reserve items are usually available for two hours or 24 hours.

Items that are on reserve are available on a first come first served basis. If an item is checked out it will be available to the first person to present themselves at the desk and ask for it after it has been returned. An item on reserve cannot be held for a particular person.

Can I get research assistance?

Research assistance is available in the Business Library. The business librarian is available from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Monday through Friday. Please telephone 757-221-2916 or e-mail [[charlotte.brown, Charlotte Brown]] to set up an appointment.

Walk-ins and questions that arise during your research are accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Can I get help using a database?

If you need help using one of the Business Library's databases please ask the staff for assistance. The Business Library staff members are more than happy to help you get started or answer questions you may have about a database.

If you would like a thorough run-through on a particular database, please telephone 757-221-2916 or e-mail [[Charlotte.Brown, Charlotte Brown]] to set up an appointment.