Using the Library
VIU Library provides access to millions of resources in its collection, including scholarly articles, books, eBooks, news sources, videos, and other resources that can help you complete your assignments.
Your instructors may ask you to use different kinds of information, such as scholarly or peer-reviewed articles, books, primary sources, current news or other sources. A general web search is useful for finding publicly available information, but many academic articles and books may not be freely available online. They may be behind paywalls. Your student fees make sure that the Library can pay for access so that you can use them at no additional cost.
LibrarySearch is the Library's main search tool. It allows you to search across much of the Library's collections in one place and connect to resources available online and in print.
Click here to search the Library!
The link will open in a new window or tab and take you out of this site.
Tips for learning
Start with a few important words that describe your topic. You can then use the options on the results page to:
- narrow results by date, subject, or resource type
- limit results to scholarly or peer-reviewed articles
- identify resources available online or physically in the Library
- save, email, or cite useful results
Try changing your keywords when your first search gives you too many, too few, or unrelated results. Book an appointment with a librarian to support your research.
LibrarySearch is a useful starting point, but it may not search every specialized database. Your subject's Library guide can help you find additional databases and resources.
Watch and learn
Watch the Introduction to LibrarySearch video for a brief overview of searching, narrowing your results, and accessing resources.
Build your resources
- Use the new student Library checklist to get started with Library services and resources
- Learn how to use your Library account to view loans and renew materials
- Set up your VIU card to borrow library books, equipment, book study rooms, access buildings, printing, and more
- Explore how to use LibrarySearch in more detail
- Find out whether the Library has a specific journal, magazine, or newspaper
- Explore Library study spaces and computer labs, including information about booking study rooms
Student support areas
- Contact Library Research Help for support with choosing keywords, using LibrarySearch, finding full text, or selecting appropriate sources