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A New Student's Guide to Library and IT Services
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A New Student’s Guide to
Library and IT Services
2013 – 2014
Information Services www.qub.ac.uk/student
Page 1
CONTENTS
1. Locations and Opening Hours ................................................................................... 3
1.1 Group Study Rooms ............................................................................................................. 6
2. Considerate Studying ............................................................................................... 7
3. Getting Help and Advice ........................................................................................... 8
4. Student Computing ................................................................................................ 10
4.1 Finding a Computer ........................................................................................................... 10
4.2 Logging into the Computers ............................................................................................... 12
4.3 Wireless Network Access (WiFi)......................................................................................... 13
4.4 Your Queen’s Drive ............................................................................................................ 15
4.5 Printing Facilities ............................................................................................................... 16
4.6 Shopping for Studying Supplies ......................................................................................... 17
5. Email (Outlook Web Access) ................................................................................... 18
5.1 Logging into OWA .............................................................................................................. 18
5.2 Finding Out More .............................................................................................................. 20
6. Accessing Information Using Queen’s Online .......................................................... 21
6.1 Accessing Queen’s Online .................................................................................................. 21
6.2 Course Materials on Queen’s Online ................................................................................. 23
6.3 Queen’s Drive Web Access ................................................................................................ 27
6.4 Qsis .................................................................................................................................... 29
6.5 Booking a Group Study Room in The McClay Library ......................................................... 31
6.6 Personal Development Planning ........................................................................................ 32
6.7 Changing your Password .................................................................................................... 33
6.8 Logging Out ....................................................................................................................... 33
7. Your Student Smart Card ........................................................................................ 34
7.1 What can I Use my Student Smart Card for? ...................................................................... 34
7.2 Managing your Student Smart Card through QOL .............................................................. 35
8. Library Facilities ..................................................................................................... 40
8.1 How do I Find Books, DVDs, etc? ....................................................................................... 40
8.2 Short Loan Material ........................................................................................................... 44
8.3 How do I Find Journals? ..................................................................................................... 46
9. Logging Off the Computers..................................................................................... 48
Page 2
ABOUT THIS GUIDE
Welcome to Queen’s! This guide provides you with
information about the key Library and IT facilities you’ll
need to use, now that you are a student at Queen’s.
Useful information on the locations and opening hours
of the Libraries and Student Computing Areas, how you
can access the Queen’s network and where you can get
help is included. Also, this guide will show you how to:
Save files to your Queen’s drive
Use your Queen’s email account
Use Queen’s Online (QOL) to access module resources and manage your Student
Smart Card
Search for an item in the Library catalogue (QCat Discover)
It’s a good idea to keep this guide with you for the first few weeks as a handy reference
until you become familiar with the facilities. However, as we are continually updating the
facilities available to students, the information in this guide is subject to change. For the
latest news on computing at Queen’s, keep checking the Student Computing web pages;
up-to-date information on Library services is available at the Library website. Or, you can
follow us on Facebook and Twitter:
● ● ●
This document has been produced for you by Information Services. It is also
available in alternative formats on request, including large print, Braille,
tape, audio CD and Daisy CD. For further information, please contact the
University’s Marketing and Creative Services Unit on 028 9097 2586.
Page 3
1. LOCATIONS AND OPENING HOURS
There are lots of places on campus where you can study or work on assignments. In
addition to the Libraries, there are Student Computing Areas (SCAs) situated throughout
the campus where you can use computers for independent study, or you can book a
group study room, equipped with a PC and whiteboard, for group work. The main study
locations are:
Page 4
The locations of the main SCAs (excluding the Medical Library) are illustrated on the map
below:
Page 5
Opening hours may vary from the above during examination periods and at other times outside of normal teaching weeks.
You can check the current opening hours for the SCAs at http://go.qub.ac.uk/scaopen
Library and SCA opening hours may differ. See www.qub.ac.uk/lib for current Library opening hours.
The typical opening hours of the SCAs are listed below:
Opening Hours: Teaching Weeks
Location Mon – Thu Friday Saturday Sunday
The McClay Library 08.00 – 02.00
08.00 – 02.00
10.00 –
02.00
12.00 – 02.00
Medical Biology Centre
(MBC)
08.00 –
22.00
08.00 –
22.00
08.00 –
18.00
08.00 –
18.00
Elmwood Learning &
Teaching Centre (ELTC)
09.00 –
21.30
09.00 –
16.30
The Medical Library
(RVH)
08.30 –
21.00
08.30 –
18.00
09.00 –
12.00
Peter Froggatt Centre (PFC) 08.30 – 21.00
08.30 – 21.00
Ashby 09.00 – 17.30
09.00 – 17.00
Opening Hours: Non-Teaching Weeks
Location Mon – Thu Friday Saturday Sunday
The McClay Library 08.00 –
20.30
08.00 –
17.30
10.00 –
17.30
Medical Biology Centre
(MBC)
08.00 –
18.00
08.00 –
18.00
08.00 –
18.00
08.00 –
18.00
Elmwood Learning &
Teaching Centre (ELTC)
09.00 –
16.45
09.00 –
16.45
The Medical Library
(RVH)
08.30 –
17.00
08.30 –
17.00
09.00 –
12.00
Peter Froggatt Centre (PFC) 09.00 – 17.00
09.00 – 17.00
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1.1 GROUP STUDY ROOMS
If you wish to study with some of your fellow students, for example to work on a group
assignment or presentation, you can use a group study room. Group study rooms are
available in The McClay Library, Elmwood Learning and Teaching Centre, the Biomedical
Library and the Medical Library.
Note that group study rooms are not completely soundproof!
Make sure that you do not disturb other students by talking loudly
and remember to enter and leave group study rooms in the libraries
quietly.
Don’t forget to turn off all equipment and leave the facilities as you would wish
to find them.
THE MCCLAY LIBRARY
There are 23 group study rooms in The McClay Library which can be booked for up to
three hours. Bookings can only be made for the same day or the following day and must
be made through Queen’s Online (see Section 6.5). Group study rooms have a
whiteboard, PC and a plasma screen/data projector and are suitable for groups of 2-13
people.
Forgotten something? Whiteboard markers, wipes, USB devices,
coursework CD-Rs and other stationery can be purchased from the Computer
Shop on the ground floor of The McClay Library.
ELMWOOD LEARNING AND TEACHING CENTRE
There are two group study rooms on the 3rd floor of Elmwood Learning and Teaching
Centre (Elmwood Avenue) which do not have to be booked in advance.
BIOMEDICAL LIBRARY
There is one group study room in the Biomedical Library (MBC) which can be booked up
to one week in advance at the Borrower Services Desk.
MEDICAL LIBRARY (RVH)
The Medical Library (RVH) has three group study rooms which can be booked at the
Borrower Services Desk up to two weeks in advance. Two of these contain a data
projector but none have a PC in situ. However, laptops can be borrowed from the
Borrower Services Desk if you need PC access in the group study rooms.
Page 7
Please do not reserve computers or study spaces by leaving coats, bags or other personal items on chairs or desks. Items left unattended may be removed to allow other students to use the space and computers will
automatically log out if left inactive for more than 30 minutes.
2. CONSIDERATE STUDYING
The Libraries and Student Computing Areas (SCAs) are there to provide you with
convenient facilities to assist you in your academic studies. We want all students to be
able to work in a pleasant and quiet environment and you can help.
Remember to:
Switch your mobile phone to silent as soon as you enter a Library or SCA.
Keep talking and noise to a minimum – you can book a group study room if you need
to work with others.
Eat only in designated areas (drinks with secure lids are permitted in all areas).
Keep your password secret and log out of the computer before leaving – any misuse
from your account is your responsibility.
Keep your belongings with you at all times. Thieves work fast!
Leave the equipment and facilities as you would like to find them - recycle paper and
plastic using the bins provided.
Show consideration for others by not lingering, especially during peak times when
someone may be waiting for a PC or study space to finish important coursework.
Respect copyright and codes of conduct for computer use.
NEED A BREAK?
All the Libraries and SCAs have refreshment areas with vending machines or
a café where you can go if you need to take a break. Please do not eat in the
study areas as it is distracting to other students and may result in damage to furniture
and equipment. Drinks with secure lids may be consumed in the study areas.
EVACUATION AND FIRST AID
Please make yourself aware of the first aid points and evacuation
procedures in all buildings. In the case of an emergency, a continuous
warning bell will ring and you should leave the building immediately. Any accident or
sudden illness should be reported to the Borrower Services Desk (if you are in one of the
libraries) or to any member of staff and assistance will be provided.
Page 8
3. GETTING HELP AND ADVICE
There are lots of sources of help and advice available to you. Further information about
the Library and IT services, user guides and training resources can be accessed at any time
from the websites and we will keep you up-to-date with any changes to our services
through our Facebook and Twitter pages:
If you have a specific query, you can ask a member of staff:
NEED TO SHARPEN UP YOUR IT SKILLS?
The IT Training and Assessment Unit have developed a range of training
materials aimed at providing you with the key IT skills you will need during
your studies at Queen’s, including File Management, Word Processing,
Spreadsheets and Presentations. These are available to download from the
IT and Library Guides folder on your QOL Home page (see Section 6.1).
GOT THE SKILLS? THEN PROVE IT!
While at Queen’s, you may be interested in obtaining an additional
qualification to prove your IT skills to future employers. Students can take
the ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) or ECDL Advanced
qualifications through the IT Training and Assessment Unit, allowing you to
gain an internationally recognised IT qualification while studying at Queen’s. If you are
working towards the Degree Plus Award, your ECDL accreditation will be formally
recognised as one of your achievements. For more information contact [email protected]
or check out the website (http://go.qub.ac.uk/ecdl).
Library Assistants and Computing Assistants
Enquiry Desks
Your Subject Librarian
Computer Helpdesk (The McClay Library)
Page 9
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
If you have any difficulties accessing any of our services due to a disability, please contact
Disability Services by phoning 028 9097 2727 or by emailing [email protected]
Information Services will liaise with Disability Services, if necessary, to endeavour to
resolve your query.
All the computers in the SCAs have access to some Assistive Technology including screen
reading software and reading and writing tools:
ZoomText allows users with a visual impairment to access a PC through screen
magnification and voice synthesizer feedback. ZoomText reads documents, web
pages and email, which the user is able to listen to using headphones or
the computer's speakers.
Mindview is a visual learning tool widely used for building mind maps. Mind maps
are diagrams used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other items linked to and
arranged around a key word or idea. They can be used as an aid in study,
organisation, problem solving, decision making, and writing.
Read & Write Gold is a literacy support tool designed to assist users when reading
or comparing text. Functions include text-to-speech, phonetic spell checker, word
prediction, speaking dictionary and a scanning facility.
These applications can be accessed by double-clicking the
Accessibility shortcut on the Desktop.
The McClay Library also has the following equipment that may be of use to students:
A Zoom-ex scanner is available to borrow from the Borrower Services Desk. This
lightweight, portable scanner turns the computer it is used with into a scanner,
reader and magnifier for blind or visually impaired students.
A desktop CCTV magnifier is located on Floor 2 of The McClay Library.
Adjustable tables are available on each floor of The McClay Library.
For further information regarding Assistive Technology, visit the Disability Services
website at the following address:
http://go.qub.ac.uk/assistivetechnology
Page 10
Teaching rooms are only available for independent study if they have NOT been booked for teaching. Check that a class is not in progress
before entering a teaching room!
4. STUDENT COMPUTING
During your studies you will be required to use computers regularly to check your emails, access module resources and produce assignments. This section provides you with some useful information about the IT facilities at Queen’s.
4.1 FINDING A COMPUTER
You have plenty of choice in where you use the IT facilities at Queen’s. The table below
lists the Student Computing Areas (SCAs) where you can access a desktop PC.
SCA Room Type Location PCs Elmwood Learning and Teaching
Centre (Floor 1, Floor 2 and Floor 3)
Teaching Room 01 007 73
01 015 27
02 005 78
Open Access 02 014 27
Group Study 03 005 6
03 010 5
Medical Biology Centre Teaching Room Anatomy Wing 64
Open Access Anatomy Wing 27
Group Study Biomedical Library 1
Peter Froggatt Centre (Floor 3)
Teaching Room 03/028 36
03/030 22
03/031 25
The McClay Library (All Floors)
Open Access Extended Hours Area
107
Atrium 170+
Teaching Room Language Lab 1 24
Resource Room 27
Open Access Floor 1 80+
Floor 2 100+
Floor 3 89+
Group Study (1 PC per room -
rooms are bookable via QOL)
Ground Floor 4
Floor 1 5
Floor 2 9
Floor 3 5
Medical Library (RVH) Open Access Mulhouse Building 46
Ashby Building Open Access (no printers)
Level 1 22
Page 11
Limited computer access is also available on the ground floor of the Peter Froggatt Centre
(PFC), in the refreshment area on the ground floor of Elmwood Learning and Teaching
Centre (ELTC) and beside the Security Desk in the Medical Biology Centre (MBC). There
are also some computers in The Space and The Enterprise Centre in the Students’ Union,
and there is a computer suite with photocopier and printer in the Treehouse in Elms
Village. There may be additional computing facilities available within your School.
As a student at Queen’s, you must abide by our Computer Resources – Acceptable Use
Policy. You can download a copy of this, along with the Student Computing at Queen’s –
Acceptable Use Guide at:
http://go.qub.ac.uk/itpolicies
Page 12
4.2 LOGGING INTO THE COMPUTERS
To login to the computers at Queen’s (including Library laptops) you will need your student
number (username) and the password that you received for registration. You must only
login to the computers using your own username and password or a temporary username
and password which have been given to you by a member of staff.
It is a disciplinary offence to allow someone else to use your username or password to
access our facilities!
HELP! I CAN’T GET LOGGED IN!
If you have forgotten your password or it does not work, it will need to be reset. You can
do this at the Information Desk in the Student Guidance Centre or the Computer
Helpdesk in The McClay Library. You will need your Student Smart Card for identification.
SOFTWARE AVAILABLE
Once you have logged in, you can access a range of software including:
Microsoft Office 2010 (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access)
Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome
Screen reading software and reading and writing tools
SPSS (statistical package)
Other software recommended by your tutors
SCANNING/CD WRITING FACILITIES
Scanners are available on all floors of The McClay Library, in Independent Study 1 in
Elmwood Learning and Teaching Centre and in the Medical Library.
Desktop PCs in The McClay Library can read/write to CD and read DVDs.
Page 13
For instructions on accessing the WiFi network go to http://go.qub.ac.uk/wireless
4.3 WIRELESS NETWORK ACCESS (WIFI)
If you have your own wireless-enabled laptop or mobile phone, you can access the
Queen’s WiFi network in various locations across campus including the following:
David Bates Building
Elmwood Learning and Teaching Centre (ELTC)
International and Postgraduate Student Centre
Lanyon Building
Medical Biology Centre (MBC)
Medical Library (RVH)
Peter Froggatt Centre (PFC)
Student Guidance Centre
Students’ Union
The McClay Library
Whitla Hall
Using the WiFi service, you can use your own laptop or tablet PC to access the Internet
and other facilities, including your Queen’s drive (see Section 4.4) and your Queen’s email
account (see Section 5).
Desks with sockets are provided in various areas
across campus – DO NOT
unplug any equipment to
charge your devices!
To print from your laptop,
or a PC off-campus, go to
www.qub.ac.uk/cps/
Instructions for connecting mobile phones (including iPhones and Android devices) to the
network are also available. Windows Phones and Blackberries can be connected to your
email account. Go to http://go.qub.ac.uk/wireless for more information.
Tip: Scan the QR code shown into your smartphone or mobile device to access the
Queen’s Mobile Service.
Page 14
More information on the policies relating to acceptable use of the computing facilities is available at
http://go.qub.ac.uk/itpolicies
WANT TO BORROW A LAPTOP TO STUDY IN THE LIBRARY?
Laptops are available to borrow from The McClay Library, the Biomedical Library (MBC)
and the Medical Library (RVH) for use within those Libraries. They have full WiFi network
access and have the same facilities as the
computers in the SCAs. Ask at the Borrower
Services Desk in the Biomedical or Medical
Libraries, or, in The McClay Library, use the
self-service lockers on the ground floor. See
page 45 for more information about
borrowing a Library laptop.
Note! Use of WiFi network access at Queen’s is subject to the same rules as the other
computing facilities.
CAN I ACCESS THE INTERNET FROM THE HALLS?
If you are staying in Queen’s accommodation, a networking
and Internet package provided by the external commercial
supplier Ask4 is included in your accommodation fee. This
provides you with a dedicated Ethernet connection and
WiFi access. For more information, go to the Queen’s
Accommodation and Hospitality website at:
http://go.qub.ac.uk/stayatqueensnetwork
Page 15
You will see some folders already in your Queen's Drive that are required for the operation of your account.
Do not change or delete these folders or the files within them!
4.4 YOUR QUEEN’S DRIVE
Once you have logged into the network at Queen’s, you can access your
Queen’s (or Q:) Drive. This is 200 Megabytes of network storage space for
you to store your files and folders. If you are saving or opening a file from a
computer in the SCAs, it will automatically default to the Q: Drive. Files saved to your
Queen’s Drive cannot be viewed by other users but can be retrieved by you from any
computer in the SCAs or, when off-campus, through the Queen’s Drive Web Access
facility in Queen’s Online. A brief overview of this facility is provided in Section 6.3.
It is recommended that you use your Queen’s Drive to store any documents
relating to your studies. You may also wish to save a back-up copy of your
work to a USB flash drive; however, you should be aware that USB drives can
stop working unexpectedly and are easily misplaced!
Your Queen’s Drive is a secure area for you to store files relating to your
studies and should not be used to store music files, video clips or digital
photographs. If space on the network becomes limited, these files will be
removed without warning! Make sure that you regularly delete files that you no longer
require to free-up space.
To access your Queen’s Drive from a computer in the SCAs,
double-click the Queen’s Drive shortcut on the Desktop.
A range of self-study training materials aimed at helping you improve your IT skills,
including File Management, Word Processing, Spreadsheets and Presentations, are
available to download from the IT and Library Guides folder on your QOL Home page in
Queen’s Online (see Section 6.1).
Page 16
To print from your laptop or via the web, go to www.qub.ac.uk/cps/
4.5 PRINTING FACILITIES
Black and white printing is available in all of the SCAs (except the Ashby).
Colour printing is available in The McClay Library, Elmwood Learning and
Teaching Centre (ELTC), the Medical Biology Centre (MBC) and the Medical
Library (RVH). You can also print from wireless laptops in the Libraries and SCAs, or from
anywhere you have access to the Internet, including Queen’s accommodation. The print
job will remain in the print queue for up to three hours and can be released from a
printer in any of the SCAs.
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PRINTING AT QUEEN’S
When you print a document it is held in a queue. You can then go to a printer
and insert your Smart Card into the reader attached to the printer. Follow the
prompts on the display. You will be invited to print the first job you submitted
or move onto the next. Any jobs that have been on the queue for more than
three hours will be automatically deleted from the queue.
If there is a queue of students at the nearest printer, you can go to another
printer in the building to print your documents – this is called ‘follow me’
printing.
In order to print in the SCAs you will need to load money onto your Student
Smart Card. Two purses are available:-
o Personal Cash Purse - You can add money to this purse using one of the
cash uploaders located near the printers in The McClay Library,
Biomedical Library (MBC) or Medical Library (RVH). Or you can use the
Smart Card application in Queen’s Online to add money using a debit or
credit card (see Section 7.2).
o Print & Copy Purse - Money can only be added to this purse using the
Smart Card application and a credit or debit card. Money added to this
purse for printing or photocopying will be increased by 20% - £5.00
taken from your credit or debit card will purchase £6.00 worth of
printing or photocopying. This is the recommended option as it gives
you the best value.
Colour printing costs 20p per A4 page (compared to 5p for black and white
printing).
See Section 7 for more information about using your Student Smart Card.
Page 17
CREATING A POSTER PRESENTATION?
Large scale printing services (up to A0) are available for academic posters. Email
[email protected] or telephone the Computer Helpdesk on 028 9097 3760 for more
information. Please allow four working days for posters to be printed.
4.6 SHOPPING FOR STUDYING SUPPLIES
Stationery and computing consumables are available from the Computer
Shop, next to the Computer Helpdesk on the ground floor of The McClay
Library. It is open from 8:30am - 1:00pm and 2:00pm - 5:00pm (4:30pm Friday) Monday
through to Friday. Items stocked include:
pens, pencils and highlighters
CDs/DVDs, coursework CD-Rs
whiteboard pens and dry wipes
USB flash drives
printer cartridges and labels
screen wipes
file pads, file dividers and folders
earphones
You may find many of the prices to be cheaper than High Street prices so it is worth
having a look or you can telephone 028 9097 6193 for more information.
NEED TO UPDATE YOUR SOFTWARE?
As a Queen’s student, you can purchase reduced price software, such as Office
2010. For more information, go to http://go.qub.ac.uk/lowcostsw
THINKING OF BUYING A LAPTOP OR PC?
The University operates a laptop and PC purchase scheme for staff and
students. For more information, go to http://go.qub.ac.uk/MGbbc
Page 18
5. EMAIL (OUTLOOK WEB ACCESS)
You have been allocated a web-based email account using Outlook Web Access (OWA)
which you MUST use when emailing staff at Queen’s. You can access your email using a
web browser, not only within the University, but from anywhere in the world via the
Internet. Your tutors, together with a wide range of Queen’s services, will communicate
with you by email; therefore, you MUST regularly check your Queen’s email account.
In addition to email facilities, OWA includes other useful tools such as Contacts, Calendar
and Tasks. This section will provide you with the information you need to get started with
your email account. There is a more detailed guide available from the IT and Library
Guides folder on your QOL Home page in Queen’s Online.
5.1 LOGGING INTO OWA
To log into your email account you need your student number and the password that you
received for registration.
To access your Queen’s email account from one of the computers in
the SCAs, double-click on the Student Webmail icon on the Desktop.
If you are using a computer outside of the SCAs, you will need to open a web browser
such as Internet Explorer and go to:
The OWA login page will appear. Enter your User name and Password into the
appropriate fields and click Log On.
WHERE CAN I FIND MY EMAIL ADDRESS?
You have already received your email address when invited to register and enrol. It is
also displayed in the Contact Information section of your Student Center in Qsis (see
Section 6.4 ). It will take a format similar to the following: [email protected]
https://owa.qub.ac.uk
Page 19
Do not open any email attachment unless you are sure that it is safe. If you are unsure about the origin of a file, save it to a flash drive and run a virus scan on it before opening. Further information on how to protect your computer from viruses is available at qub.ac.uk/student
If you open an attachment before saving it, it will be put into a temporary folder. Make sure you use Save As to save it to a suitable
location (e.g. your Queen's Drive) or it will be deleted when you log out.
For more information about accessing your email using a smartphone, go to http://go.qub.ac.uk/wireless
CAN I RE-DIRECT MY QUEEN’S EMAIL ACCOUNT TO MY PERSONAL EMAIL?
No. Your Queen’s email account is regularly used by University staff to communicate with
you and it is important to maintain its security. Therefore, you must log into your
Queen’s email account directly in order to access your email. However it is possible to set
up your Queen’s email on a range of smartphones.
Note: You will need to have the appropriate software (such as Microsoft Word or Adobe
Reader) installed on your computer to open a file attachment.
Caution! Viruses are often spread through email attachments!
Page 20
To download the Outlook Web Access User Guide , go to http://go.qub.ac.uk/studentemail
EFFECTIVE EMAIL
During your studies (and in your future career) you will probably make considerable use
of email. Below are a few tips to help you keep your emails professional:
Give your message a meaningful subject, for example, Draft essay.
Greet the person using the appropriate title, for example, Dear Dr Jones.
If appropriate, include the module title and your tutorial group.
Think about the content of your message and use correct spelling and punctuation. Do not write an email the way you would text your friends!
Sign off the message so that the recipient knows your name and, if necessary, provide contact details other than email. For example when emailing a tutor or University administration, include your student number.
Do not say anything to others by email or online that you would not say to them personally in a room full of people. Never reply immediately to something that annoys or upsets you.
Be careful with humour or sarcasm – they are often misinterpreted online!
Remember that emails directed to one person may well be forwarded to others or filed for later reading by someone else!
5.2 FINDING OUT MORE
Further information on your Queen’s email is available online at:
http://go.qub.ac.uk/studentemail. You can also download the Outlook Web Access User
Guide from this site to find out about the other features of OWA.
When you have finished your OWA session, it is important to log out of your account.
Page 21
6. ACCESSING INFORMATION USING QUEEN’S ONLINE
Queen’s Online (QOL) provides you with secure Internet access to a wide range of
personal and course specific information, including module resources and exam
timetables. Note that QOL is being continually developed, therefore screens may appear
different or the facilities may vary slightly from those described here.
6.1 ACCESSING QUEEN’S ONLINE
To access QOL from a computer in one of the SCAs, double-click the
Queen’s Online shortcut on the Desktop.
If you are using a computer off-campus, open a web browser, such as Internet Explorer,
and go to:
Or, you can access some features of QOL from your smartphone or mobile device at:
The Queen’s Online Login page will be displayed (see Figure 6-1). Click the Login
to Queen’s Online link.
FIGURE 6-1 QUEEN’S ONLINE LOGIN PAGE
https://home.qol.qub.ac.uk/
www.qub.ac.uk/mobile
Page 22
If you are using a computer in one of the SCAs, you will be taken directly to your QOL
Home page (see Figure 6-3). If you are using a computer off-campus, you will need to
enter your user name and password first. Note that you must type ads\ before your
student number in the User name box to log into Queen’s Online (see Figure 6-2).
FIGURE 6-2 LOGGING IN TO QUEEN’S ONLINE
Your QOL Home page (see Figure 6-3) contains links to your course materials and various
other services, including your email account, Queen’s Drive Web Access and Qsis.
To return to your QOL Home page at any stage, click the QOL Home tab, near the
top of the screen.
FIGURE 6-3 QOL HOME
Page 23
6.2 COURSE MATERIALS ON QUEEN’S ONLINE
Most tutors use Queen’s Online to make resources available for each module and to
communicate with students taking that module. It is important that you access QOL on a
regular basis to find the latest course resources, read messages from your tutor and
participate in module activities. Note that it is possible for your tutor to see if you are
using the resources and the discussion forums.
LEARNING HOME
Your School may provide resources which are not associated with a particular module, for
example, guidelines for submitting assignments or announcements to all students in the
School.
To view these resources, under Modules, click the Learning Home link (see Figure
6-4).
FIGURE 6-4 MODULES ON QOL HOME
MODULE RESOURCES
Click on the current academic year (2013/14) to view the module codes for the
modules that you have enrolled on (similar to Figure 6-4). To view resources
associated with a module, click the module code.
Note: It may take up to 24 hours for newly registered students to see their modules.
Once you have selected a module from the Modules list, the Home page for that module
will be displayed, showing any recent announcements, plus links to library resources for
this module (see Figure 6-5).
To return to this page at any time, click the Module Home tab near the top of the
page (see Figure 6-5).
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FIGURE 6-5 MODULE HOME PAGE
To view contact details for the staff involved with the module, click Staff Involved
under Information on the left (see Figure 6-5).
The Resources section is where you can find resources (for example, Word files,
PowerPoint slides and web links) that your tutor has provided for this particular module.
Resources may be grouped into folders by your tutor, for example, Week 1,
Week 2, or Lectures, Practical Exercises, and so on.
To view the resources available for the module, click Resources under Information
on the left of the Module Home page (see Figure 6-5).
TUTORIAL GROUPS
Within the module site there may be separate resources and facilities for each tutorial
group. Tutorial groups (if available) will be listed under Tutorial Navigation to the right of
the Module Home page (see Figure 6-5).
To access materials and facilities for a particular tutorial, click the appropriate link
for the tutorial under Tutorial Navigation.
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DISCUSSION FORUM
Some modules may have discussion forums where staff and students can participate in
subject-related discussions, exchange ideas or ask questions. The discussions are
recorded as a series of messages listed under topic headings.
To view the discussion forums for the current module (if available), click the
Discussion Forum link under Communication on the Module Home page (see
Figure 6-5). The Discussion Forum page for the current module will open (see
Figure 6-6). To join in an existing discussion, on the Discussion Forum page, click once on
the name of the forum under Subject (see Figure 6-6).
FIGURE 6-6 DISCUSSION FORUM
To create a new discussion, click Add new discussion (see Figure 6-6). The
Discussion Forum – New Item window will open (see Figure 6-7). Enter a title for
your discussion in the Subject field and enter your message in the Body field (see
Figure 6-7). When you click Save, your discussion will be added to the forum for that
module.
FIGURE 6-7 CREATING A NEW DISCUSSION
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If you have a question regarding specific module information, assignments or resources, you should contact the staff involved with that module.
For further information on using Queen's Online check out our FAQs at: http://go.qub.ac.uk/VLEFAQ
OTHER RESOURCES
Some tutors may use QOL to manage assessments or to provide details of assignments.
To view assessments or assignments for your module, click the Assessment or
Assignment link under Other Resources on the left of the Module Home page.
Follow the instructions provided by your tutor for completing the
assignment/assessment.
Note: There is a 50Mb limit to Assignment files. If your file fails to upload, check that
the file size is not too large.
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6.3 QUEEN’S DRIVE WEB ACCESS
You can access files stored on your Queen’s Drive when off-campus using the Files
(QDrive) link on your QOL Home page.
To access your files through Queen’s Online, click the Files (QDrive) link on your
QOL Home page (see Figure 6-3) to go to the Queen’s Drive Web Access page.
Enter your Username and Password. Note that your Username is your student
number (there is no need to add ads\) and your Password is your Queen’s Online
password.
When you have logged in successfully, the files and folders in your Queen’s Drive will be
displayed (see Figure 6-8).
FIGURE 6-8 QUEEN’S DRIVE WEB ACCESS
The following table explains the icons you will see in Queen’s Drive Web Access:
Return to your Home folder
Reload the current folder to show any changes that have taken place
Create a new folder in the currently viewed folder
Save a file to your Queen’s Drive
Download the file from your Queen’s Drive and save it to the local computer so that you can view or edit it
Rename the file or folder within your Queen’s Drive
Permanently delete the file or folder from your Queen’s Drive
Move the file or folder to another location within your Queen’s Drive
Delete Move
Download file Rename
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You should save the file before (and after) editing it. If you open a file before saving it, it will be put into a temporary folder. Make sure you
use Save As to save it to a location on the computer (e.g. My Documents) or you will lose any changes you make.
Be careful when uploading files to your Queen's Drive as existing files with the same name will be overwritten without warning and cannot
be recovered!
DOWNLOADING FILES
To download a file from your Queen’s Drive so that you can view or edit it off-
campus, click the name of the file. A File Download box will appear, asking if you
want to open or save the file. Click Save and save the file to a suitable location
on your local computer, such as My Documents. When the file has been saved, a
Download Complete box will appear. Click Open in the Download Complete box to open
the file.
UPLOADING FILES
Any changes made to a file on your computer will NOT be automatically saved to your
Queen’s Drive – you need to upload the file again to your Queen’s Drive. When off-
campus, you must save the file to a suitable location on your local computer, such as My
Documents, before uploading it to your Queen’s Drive in order to avoid losing any
changes you have made.
To upload a file from your local computer to your Queen’s Drive, click the Upload
Files button in Queen’s Drive Web Access. An Upload Multiple Files to Queen’s
Drive Web Access box will appear. Click the Browse button and select the file
that you wish to upload and click Open. When you have finished selecting files, click the
Upload button. The selected file(s) will be saved to the current folder on your Queen’s
Drive.
GETTING HELP AND LOGGING OUT
For Help on using Queen’s Drive Web Access, click the Help link at the top of the
screen.
To protect your files, make sure that you logout when you have finished.
To logout of Queen’s Drive Web Access, click the Logout link at the top of the
screen.
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Keep your contact details up-to-date! If there are any changes to your contact details, such as your term-
time address, you MUST update your details on Qsis.
6.4 QSIS
By now you should already have used the Qsis Enrolment and Registration Wizard to
complete the enrolment and registration process. Throughout the year, you can use the
Qsis Self Service facility to:
Change your module enrolments
Check your timetable
View information relating to your Advisor/Supervisor/Personal Tutor
Maintain your address/phone/email/emergency contact details
View your fee/finance details
Access exam timetable and results (when available)
View any holds or issues with your Library Account (for example blocked access to
the Library services due to non-payment of fines)
Track any tasks in your To Do list
Register for graduation (when applicable)
To access Qsis to change or view your student details, click the Qsis Home link on
your QOL Home page to go to the Qsis Sign In page (see Figure 6-9).
FIGURE 6-9 QSIS SIGN IN PAGE
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Once you have signed in, click Self Service under Menu to go to the Self Service
menu page (see Figure 6-10).
FIGURE 6-10 SELF SERVICE MENU
Click Student Center to view a summary of your academic information including
your personal details, email address, finances and the name of your advisor.
Click Enrollment to go to the Enrollment menu where you can add or drop classes
(modules), view your weekly schedule (timetable), view your grades and view
your anonymous ID for examinations.
Click Campus Personal Information to go to the Campus Personal Information
menu where you can check your personal details, add emergency contacts, or
make amendments as required.
It is important that your personal information is accurate as the University will use these
details when communicating with you. Note that some details cannot be removed or
edited using Qsis. For changes to course-related information you should contact your
advisor of studies; for any other changes contact the Student Administrative Services and
Systems (Student Records) Office at [email protected] or call in to the Student
Guidance Centre.
SIGNING OUT OF QSIS
Make sure you sign out of Qsis when you have finished to protect your personal details.
To sign out, click the Sign out link near the top of the screen and close the
browser window.
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6.5 BOOKING A GROUP STUDY ROOM IN THE MCCLAY LIBRARY
To book a group study room in The McClay Library, click Administration under
Services on your QOL Home page and click the Group Study Room Booking link.
The availability for each of the study rooms will be displayed (see Figure 6-11) -
available slots will be displayed in green.
FIGURE 6-11 GROUP STUDY ROOM AVAILABILITY
Select the Room you wish to book and the Day from the dropdown lists and click
Go (see Figure 6-11).
FIGURE 6-12 GROUP STUDY ROOM BOOKING
Select the Duration you wish to book the room for and the Start Time from the
dropdown lists (see Figure 6-12). Enter the number of people who will be using
the room in the Number Expected box. Click Book it to book the room. If you
have successfully booked a room, you will receive a confirmation email for your booking.
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6.6 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING
To help you with the preparation of CVs and application forms in the future, you have
access to a Personal Development Planning facility (your PDP e-folio) in the Services
section of your QOL Home page. Your PDP e-folio has a wide range of specialised
functions which include:
CV builder/achievements logger
School specific support for course, professional development and career
management activities
Supported action planning functions
Web links that will be useful at particular stages of your programme and may
inform your medium and long-term plans
To access your PDP e-folio, click Administration under Services on your QOL
Home page and click the PDP E-folio link. Use the links provided to engage in
various PDP activities including recording achievements, setting goals or creating
a CV.
Your School will provide you with further information and training in PDP.
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6.7 CHANGING YOUR PASSWORD
It is possible to change your password using the Change Password facility link.
Caution!
Do not change your password until you have finished using the computer facilities for the
day as there may be a time delay in activating your new password and you may not be
able to access the facilities that require your password for some time. Never disclose
your password to anyone but keep a note of it somewhere safe in case you forget it.
To change your password, click the Change Password link under Quick Links in
your QOL Home page and follow the onscreen instructions.
Your new password should:
Be between 6 and 14 characters long
Use a mixture of letters and non-letters (but NOT the £ symbol)
Include at least 1 number and 1 capital letter
Be easy to remember, but not too easy to guess
Your new password should not:
Be a word that can be found in the dictionary
Be a word that is known personal information
Points to Note:
When you change your login password, you are also changing your Queen’s
Online, Qsis, email and Library password.
It may take some time before you can log into the system using your new
password.
Keep your password safe and remember to always log off before leaving the
computer.
6.8 LOGGING OUT
To maintain security always log out of Queen’s Online; do not simply close the browser
window.
To log out of Queen’s Online, click the down arrow to the right of your name at
the top right of the screen and click Sign Out to exit Queen’s Online. A dialog box
may appear, asking if you want to close this tab/window. Click the Yes button.
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7. YOUR STUDENT SMART CARD
Your Student Smart Card is your student ID and should be
carried at all times when on campus. You will have
received your Smart Card at your initial Registration and
it is expected to last for the full duration of your stay at
Queen’s. You will need to bring it with you each year to
Registration so that it can be revalidated.
7.1 WHAT CAN I USE MY STUDENT SMART CARD FOR?
You can use your Student Smart Card to perform a number of functions on site, including
electronic payment for various services (using your Personal Cash purse, Print & Copy
purse or Student Experience Bursary), access to buildings and Library services.
Up-to-date information about the Student Smart Card can be accessed online:
ELECTRONIC PAYMENT
Some of the services you can pay for using your Student Smart Card include
printing, photocopying and Library fines. You can also use your card in the
Students’ Union Shop, the Welcome Centre, the Computer Shop in The McClay Library
and for food in all catering outlets.
If you receive a Student Experience Bursary, you can use your Smart Card for:
Purchase of books – this system is currently under review and further details will
be made available via the smartcard web page in due course.
Payment in the PEC, QFT, Festival at Queen’s Box Office, the Language Centre (The
McClay Library), Careers (Student Guidance Centre), ECDL, Computer Shop (The
McClay Library) and certain ‘educational’ items in the Students’ Union Shop.
Other functions may be added during the year.
Money from the bursary purse can be transferred to the Print & Copy purse to
enable it to be used for printing and photocopying. You can do this using the
Smart Card application on Queen’s Online. Note that the card will be blocked for
an hour while this transfer takes place.
For more information visit http://smartcard.qub.ac.uk
Email queries to [email protected]
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ACCESS TO BUILDINGS
Your Smart Card has a printed bar code and built in proximity technology.
Both of these can be used for access to certain areas within the University.
You will need your Smart Card to gain access at the turnstiles in The McClay Library and
the PEC.
In addition, you may need to use your Smart Card to enter School
buildings after hours or to gain access to high security areas such as
laboratories. This will require the card to be swiped at a reader, close to
the door. If you believe you require access to a restricted area, please
contact your School office.
It is a disciplinary offence to allow someone else to use your Smart Card to gain access
to buildings or facilities!
LIBRARY SERVICES
The Smart Card can be used to enable several services within the Library,
including:
Self-issue of books
Issue of books and other resources at the Borrower Services Desks
Payment of Library fines
Self-issue of laptops in The McClay Library
7.2 MANAGING YOUR STUDENT SMART CARD THROUGH QOL
You can use the Smart Card facility in Queen’s Online to do the following:
Add funds to the card
Deactivate (hotlist) a card that has been misplaced
Reactivate (unhotlist) a misplaced card that has been found
Check the recent transaction history for all purses
Check the status of a student bursary
To go to Smart Card Options, click the Smart Card link in the Smart Card section
on your QOL Home page (see Figure 7-1).
FIGURE 7-1 SMART CARD
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The Smart Card Options page will appear (see Figure 7-2).
FIGURE 7-2 SMART CARD OPTIONS
ADDING FUNDS TO YOUR STUDENT SMART CARD
Your Smart Card has a number of purses:
Personal Cash purse - This is for general use and can be used at any location that
takes electronic payment using the Smart Card. You can add money to this purse
either using the cash upload machines in The McClay Library, the Biomedical
Library (MBC) or Medical Library (RVH), or through Queen’s Online with a debit or
credit card. The limit on this purse is £150
Print & Copy purse - This is a dedicated purse which gives you preferential rates
for printing or photocopying. There will be a 20% increase to the value loaded, for
example, £5.00 taken from your credit/debit card will add £6.00 into this purse.
You can only add money to this purse through Queen’s Online using a debit or
credit card. The limit on this purse is £80.
Student Experience Bursary - This purse is updated automatically if the University
receives confirmation from the Student Loan Company that you are entitled to a
bursary. The limit on this purse is £500.
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The Smart Card operates by having the money stored directly on purses on the card. If
you add money to the card using a credit or debit card it will be added to the Smart Card
the next time you insert the card into a card reader.
To add money to your Personal Cash purse or your Print & Copy purse using a
credit or debit card, click Add Funds in the Smart Card section of your QOL Home
page (see Figure 7-1) or on the Smart Card Options page (see Figure 7-2) and select the
Purse that you wish to add money to and the Amount you wish to add. Click Pay Now to
be transferred to a secure payment page where you can enter your card details.
Don’t lose money!!
• When the Smart Card is inserted into a photocopying reader the system automatically
deducts a 5p deposit which is refunded if photocopying is completed successfully. If
you remove your card before the photocopying is complete, the system will bleep and
display a message telling you to reinsert your card. If the card is not reinserted in the
time allowed, the deposit will not be returned to the card. If no photocopying is
required, press the OK key and wait for the message telling you to remove your card,
which takes about 3 seconds, before removing the card so that 5p can be returned to
your card.
• When inserting coins into the cash upload machine, the system takes a few seconds to
add the money to your card. Wait until the machine has completed processing one
coin before inserting the next or removing your card.
• Money remaining on your Smart Card will remain on the card for use in the following
year. There will be NO REFUNDS for money remaining on the Smart Card at the end
of your year/course. It is expected that final year students will manage the use of their
Smart Card to ensure that all stored money has been used. If graduating students have
money in their Print & Copy purse, they can transfer this to the Personal Cash Purse
and use it for purchases at any of appropriate locations.
If you have a query about a ‘failed’ transfer, you should contact [email protected]
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PRINTING
When you send a document to the print queue it does not print
immediately but waits in the queue until you release it. When you wish to
print the job you should go to the printer of your choice and insert your Smart Card into
the card reader attached to the printer. You should then follow the instructions on the
display. It will invite you to print a job or move onto the next queued job. You can also
press Stop to cancel a job and move to the next. Any job that is in the queue for more
than three hours will automatically be removed from the queue.
The reader will initially try to deduct the money from
the Print & Copy purse on your card. If there are
insufficient funds in the Print & Copy purse, but
enough in a combination of the Print & Copy purse
and Personal Cash purse, the system will take what is
in the Print & Copy purse and the remainder from the
Personal Cash purse. If there is nothing in the Print &
Copy purse and enough in the Personal Cash purse,
the system will take the money from the Personal Cash purse.
Black and white printing is charged at 5p per sheet and colour at 20p per sheet.
FOLLOW ME PRINTING
If there is a queue of students waiting to print at the printer nearest to you, you can go to
any printer in the building and insert your card in the reader attached to that printer and
print your jobs – this is known as ‘follow me’ printing.
CHECKING YOUR STUDENT EXPERIENCE BURSARY
If you have received a Student Experience Bursary, you can check the status
of it in Queen’s Online. It will be paid to eligible students as soon as possible
following enrolment via the Student Smart Card.
To view the status of your bursary (if eligible), click the Student Experience
Bursary tab on the Smart Card Options page.
Any unspent money on your bursary will remain on your card for use in the next academic
year. For students who will not be returning, any unspent money on the bursary will be
transferred to the Student Hardship Fund.
Note: In the year that a student graduates any unspent bursary on the card will be
removed at the end of July in the year they graduate.
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HOTLISTING YOUR STUDENT SMART CARD
If your Smart Card is stolen or lost you must deactivate it as soon as
possible to prevent it from being used fraudulently by someone else.
To deactivate your Smart Card, click the hotlist card icon on the Smart Card
Options page (see Figure 7-2). The Hotlist Card screen will appear. Click the
Hotlist Card button.
Points to Note:
Once you click the Hotlist Card button, your Smart Card will cease to be
operational for electronic payments or access to buildings using the proximity
functionality. Note that the barcode will still be functional and will still enable
access to The McClay Library and the issue of books.
Make sure you deactivate and report a lost Smart Card as soon as possible.
The system records all transactions for your card. If a new card has to be
issued, it will contain the balance that was on the previous card at the point
that it was hotlisted.
If anyone tries to use a Smart Card that has been hotlisted the system will
block the card. It can then only be reactivated by a systems administrator.
If you lose your Smart Card there will be a £10 charge to provide a
replacement. Lost or stolen cards should be reported as soon as possible to
the Student Administrative Services and Systems (Student Records) Office
([email protected], telephone 028 9097 2727).
If you find your Smart Card again, you can reactivate it through Queen’s Online
by clicking the un-hotlist card icon on the Smart Card Options page.
Once a Smart Card has been replaced the old card cannot be reactivated for
financial payments or proximity access – the barcode will continue to work.
For more information visit http://smartcard.qub.ac.uk
Email queries to [email protected]
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8. LIBRARY FACILITIES
This section will provide you with some key information about the Library facilities at
Queen’s. You can find out more about Library services and resources online at:
www.qub.ac.uk/lib. In particular, see the ‘Using the Library’ pages. These can help you
get started by providing basic information on accessing Library services, getting help and
finding books.
8.1 HOW DO I FIND BOOKS, DVDS, ETC?
To find a book or other item in the Library, you need to look up its
shelfmark in the Library catalogue, QCat Discover (QCat). You can connect
to QCat Discover from wherever you have Internet access. QCat Discover also provides
secure access to most of our electronic resources.
To search for an item, enter your search term, e.g. ashley medieval conduct to
search for Medieval Conduct edited by Kathleen Ashley, into the Search box (see
Figure 8-1) .
FIGURE 8-1 QCAT DISCOVER SEARCH
Access QCat Discover under Library in your QOL Home page or online at www.qub.ac.uk/qcat
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Click to be taken to the list of results (see Figure 8-2). Note the location,
shelfmark and loan type of the book, or click on the title to see further details.
Alternatively, you can click on the link to access the E-Book.
FIGURE 8-2 QCAT DISCOVER RESULTS
The shelfmark, which indicates the subject of an item, is the combination of letters and
numbers printed on the spine (and/or front cover) of each item. Everything in the Library
is shelved alphabetically and numerically according to the shelfmark.
Consult the floor plan or signs in each Library to guide you to the correct place on the
shelves, or ask a member of Library staff.
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BORROWING BOOKS
Your Queen’s Student Smart Card is your Library Card and is required to gain
physical access to The McClay Library at College Park. You will need your
Student Smart Card when you are borrowing books from a Borrower Services
Desk or when using a self-service machine.
The number of standard/1 week loan items you can borrow depends on your user
category:
Undergraduate 4 weeks 10 books
Taught Postgraduate 4 weeks 20 books
Research Postgraduate 12 weeks 30 books
Short Loan material may also be borrowed for 1, 2 or 7 nights (see page 44).
With a current Student Smart Card you can start borrowing books immediately. Just bring
the books you wish to borrow to any self-service station in the Library, or to the Borrower
Services Desk.
You will not be able to borrow books if:
You don’t have your Student Smart Card
You have unpaid fines
You have overdue books
To avoid fines accumulating, return books by the due date, or, if possible, renew them.
MY ACCOUNT
To view the status of your current loans and requests, or to renew a loan, click
the My Account link on the QCat Discover page and login with your student
number and QOL password. Alternatively, you can access My Account by clicking
the link in the Library section on your QOL Home page (see Figure 8-3).
FIGURE 8-3 LIBRARY IN QOL
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RETURNING BOOKS
Books can be returned at Borrower Services Desks in all Queen's Libraries.
You can also return books at the ground floor self-service station at the
Borrower Services Desk in The McClay Library, College Park.
A self-service issue and return station is available in the Biomedical Library (MBC).
RENEWING BOOKS
There are three ways to renew standard and 1 week loan items:
Online using My Account via QCat Discover or Queen’s Online
In person at the self-service stations or at the Borrower Services Desk
By phone - see Library contacts on the inside front cover
The following items may not be renewed:
Reserved items
Short Loan items
PLACING A REQUEST
You can request standard and 1 week loan books that are on loan using QCat Discover.
To do this, search for the item in the catalogue (see page 40). If all the copies are
on loan, click the Request it link. If you haven't already logged in to QCat
Discover, you will need to enter your student number and password. From the
dropdown list, select the location you would like to collect the book from and click the
Submit button (see Figure 8-4).
FIGURE 8-4 PLACING A REQUEST
When a copy is available for you to collect, you will be notified through your Queen’s
email account. You can also check your Library account on Queen’s Online or QCat
Discover to see if your requests are available. You can have up to five requests at a time.
Please cancel your request if you no longer need a book - other people may be waiting for
it!
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8.2 SHORT LOAN MATERIAL
THE MCCLAY LIBRARY
The Short Loan Collection provides students with access to reading list material. It
contains multiple copies of recommended texts as well as other material, such as DVDs,
to support taught courses.
There are three short loan categories: 1 night, 2 night and 7 night. You can borrow up to
7 short loan items.
1 night loan The loan period is 24 hours and the fine rate for late return is 50 pence per
hour (or part hour).
2 night loan The loan period is 48 hours and the fine rate for late return is 50 pence per
hour (or part hour).
7 night loan The loan period is 7 days and the fine rate for late return is 50 pence per day
(or part day).
There are self-service machines within the Short Loan area so you can borrow material
whenever the Library is open. The exit gate is alarmed so make sure that any books,
DVDs, videos and CDs you want to use have been issued to you before you leave the area.
My Account will help you to keep track of the items you have borrowed so use it to find
out when they are due back.
Short Loan items should be returned at the ground floor self-service station at the
Borrower Services Desk. It is not possible to renew or request this material.
THE MEDICAL LIBRARY AND BIOMEDICAL LIBRARY
1 night loan material is available in the Medical Library and the Biomedical Library. The
loan period is 24 hours and the fine rate for late return is 50p per hour (or part hour). It is
not possible to renew or request this material.
DVDS
The McClay Library has an extensive collection of DVDs, videos and CDs
available for loan. You can browse the collection in the Short Loan area or
check availability in the Library catalogue.
These items are all 1 night loans so they can be borrowed for 24 hours at a time as part of
your Short Loan entitlement (7 items). However, Short Loan items cannot be requested or
renewed.
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LAPTOPS
A number of laptops are available for loan to Queen’s students in The McClay
Library (College Park), the Biomedical Library (MBC) and the Medical Library
(RVH). The laptops are for use within the Library only and connect to a
wireless network within the building.
The laptops allow access to most of the resources available from the SCAs, including the
Internet, Queen's Online, email, Microsoft applications, SPSS, etc. Printing facilities are
also available.
Laptops can be borrowed from the Borrower Services Desk or, in The McClay Library,
from the self-service lockers on the ground floor.
To operate the self-service lockers in The
McClay Library, swipe your Student Smart
Card in front of the reader and one of the
locker doors will open (if a laptop is
available). Remove the laptop and close
the locker door.
To return the laptop when you have
finished with it, swipe your card again and
the locker door will open. Replace the
laptop and close the locker door.
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8.3 HOW DO I FIND JOURNALS?
Journals are sometimes referred to as periodicals, serials or magazines.
They are published at regular intervals, such as weekly or monthly. Each
issue has a volume number or part number and they usually contain a number of articles
written by different authors. Many journals, particularly in the Arts and Humanities,
come in print format but an increasing number, especially in Science and Medicine, are
available online. New Scientist and the Harvard Business Review are examples of well-
known journals.
WHY USE JOURNALS?
Journals provide more up-to-date information than is possible with a book. They also
cover specific topics in more detail and they will often be included on your reading lists.
Ask your tutors or Subject Librarian for more information on journals relevant to your
subject area.
FINDING JOURNAL ARTICLES
To find a specific article, you need to know the title of the journal and either the year the
article was published or the volume number, for example, British Journal of Nursing,
Volume 19, Issue 5. You will usually find these details in your reading list.
To find a journal article, search QCat Discover for the title of the journal (not the
article title). From the results page, click on the title so you can see the link to
the online version if available. Click on the link and select the appropriate year,
volume and issue. For a print copy, the catalogue will tell you where the journal can be
found.
Subject to copyright restrictions, articles from print journals may be photocopied
(photocopiers are available in all of the Libraries) and articles from online journals may be
printed out. You will need to transfer money to the Print & Copy Purse on your Smart
Card in order to pay for photocopying and printing (see Section 7).
QCat Discover also provides a straightforward way to search for articles about a particular
topic or phrase. Enter your chosen words and you will see a list of articles from a range of
full text sources.
If your search terms are general, you may get a large number of results. Try to be as
specific as you can with your search term. Subject Librarians are happy to give advice on
using specific databases.
Tip: Use the My Cart facility to gather items of interest to a personal list during your
search session. As you are browsing the list of results, hover over any item you wish to
save and click Add to cart to add it to My Cart.
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READINGS ONLINE
Readings Online gives you access to journal articles and book extracts sourced
for your module. To view the materials for a particular module, go to the
Module Home page for the module on Queen’s Online and click the Readings
Online link under Library Links (see Section 6.2).
REFERENCING
When writing a piece of work, it is essential to give accurate references to all the sources
you have used. The Queen's RefWorks subscription enables you to create a personal
database of references to books and journals. Instant bibliographies can be compiled in a
variety of styles, such as Harvard or Vancouver (your School will advise you on which style
you should use).
KEEP IN TOUCH!
All communication relating to your Library account is by Queen’s email. If
you have books past their return date, you will be informed by email. You
may also receive an email giving you 2 days’ notice that a book is due to be
returned, or asking that you return a book within a week if someone else has requested
it. Please check your Queen’s email account regularly for Library messages in order to
avoid paying unnecessary fines when books are returned!
Additional information on Library services is available from the Library website, including
information on Library locations, opening times and loan entitlements. The website also
has links to online resources for each subject area and is the starting point for access to
online journals and Library databases. You can also follow the Library on Facebook and
Twitter.
For more information on referencing and online resources visit http://libguides.qub.ac.uk
www.qub.ac.uk/lib
www.facebook.com/QueensUniversityBelfastLibrary
https://twitter.com/LibraryatQUB
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9. LOGGING OFF THE COMPUTERS
It is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT to log off before leaving the computer to protect
your account and personal details. Computers left unattended for more than 30
minutes will be automatically logged out so that other students can use them
and any unsaved documents will be lost!
If you do not log off you are potentially allowing other students to access the files in your
Queen’s Drive, read or send emails from your account, or view your personal details.
Always ensure that you have saved any files that you have been working on and have
closed any open applications before leaving the computer.
To log off, double-click the Logoff icon on the desktop.
After a few seconds, the computer will re-display the CTRL+ALT+DELETE screen,
which is the first stage of the logging in process for the next student. Wait until the
CTRL+ALT+DELETE screen is displayed before leaving the computer to ensure that you
have logged off successfully.
Remember – you are responsible for your own account so ALWAYS LOG OFF
before leaving the computer.
We hope that you have found the information in this guide useful.
Enjoy your time at Queen’s!
