6. Libraries 6.1 Higher education libraries
To use the library, you must register in person or electronically with your ID card.
Libraries have joined international databases and common database search platforms, which enable to search for scientific journal articles, e-books, research papers, etc. in many databases.
Every university has a library, and in addition, larger universities have specialised libraries for different departments and institutes. Libraries administer electronic databases, which make it easy to find the necessary materials for teaching and research. You can find quiet study areas in libraries, but many of the services they offer (e.g. finding information in databases, extending return dates, etc.) can also be done via the internet.
universities have an expert for each field, who can help find materials.
Information about the location and hours of libraries can be found on the university’s website. To use the library, you must register in person or electronically with your ID card. A student of the university can register as a reader, but in several instances other interested parties can do so as well, though they have less options, more information can be found at the website of the library of each university itself. Each library has different opportunities for, which publications can be loaned, what can be used on site and what can be accessed at home. Libraries use the interlibrary loan system, and documents can also be ordered from abroad (for an extra fee). All additional information is available on the library websites.
Libraries have joined international databases (e.g. Academic Search Complete, ERIC, MEDLINE) and common database search platforms (e.g. EBSCO Discovery, EBSCOhost Integrated Search, Web of Knowledge), which enable the searching of scientific journal articles, e-books, research papers, etc., in many databases. You do not need to be physically present to use databases as you can easily do it online. Each library has precise instructions on how to access scientific articles and which searches to use.
In the autumn, libraries offer short orientation courses for new users (regarding - how to look for books in the catalogue or on the shelf, how to borrow books and extend the return date, and other services offered by the library). The websites of some libraries also have instructions on how to search the library catalogue. Larger
Larger libraries and departments/institutes also offer more in depth courses on specialised searches and referencing (as well as online courses) for students writing Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral theses. Library websites also have instructions for self learners on how to search the library catalogue and on how to use databases.
Libraries also offer other services:
• printing, copying, scanning • using computers (all academic
buildings, including the library, offer free Wifi connection and Eduroam (Education Roaming – roaming in academic networks), which you can access with your smart devices)
• booking private or group study rooms
• renting computer accessories (e.g. an ID card reader, headphones) and devices for the visually impaired
6.2 Other libraries In addition to university libraries there are also public libraries open to everyone. The largest of these are the National Library (www.nlib.ee/en) in Tallinn, and the city libraries in Tartu (www.luts.ee/index.php/eng) and Tallinn (www.keskraamatukogu.ee/ en). At these libraries, anyone can register as a reader. These libraries also 26
have large collections of foreign language and professional literature and access to online databases. In addition, these libraries have facilities for:
• printing and making photocopies, scanning
