Research FAQs: Borrow a print book

When you are searching the Library Search Box you find an item you would like to borrow, click on the title of the item to find out where it is located. Please use the Request It Button to reserve the materials for pick up, or choose the mail delivery option if you are a online or doctoral student who lives more than 30 minutes from a LBC Library Branch. 

1. Write down the book's location and call number

• ​​For example write down the location (Lancaster Main) and the call number (BS 500 .B56 1996) 
• If the book is located in the Main collection it can be checked out.  If the book is located in the Reference collection or is at the Lancaster Circulation Desk (on reserve) it must be used in the library​

2. Look at the end-panel labels. The shelves are organized alphabetically. End-panel labels will list a range of call numbers Using these labels, locate the range of numbers that your call number would fall between. 

• For example: The end-panel label lists BS 400 .A25 -- BS 600 .B75.  If the call number you are looking for falls between the end-panel label, it should be found on the shelves in that range.  
• Since the books are cataloged using the Library of Congress Classification system, you can browse the books in that section for more materials on your subject.​

3. Ask for Help: If you are unable to locate a book, but the library catalog gives an Available status, tell a staff member. We are excellent detectives and can usually track down items that might be slightly out of place