Library Services FAQs

Yes, you can access all the electronic resources and full text sources from your home or work computer. When you select the licensed resource or database you want you will be asked to enter your Bronco NetID and password.

Yes, the WMU online catalog WestCat is available on the web at: https://www.library.wmich.edu. WestCat includes records for all the books owned by the WMU Libraries. Help for searching the catalog is available at: https://www.library.wmich.edu/help/contents.htm

The Journal Finder system, available at:  http://www.wmich.edu/library/articles/sfx.php?Submit=Connect+to+Journal+Finder provides information on all electronic full text journals available to you, along with links to search or browse those journals, and which years are available.

The University Libraries provides access to hundreds of electronic databases in support of University programs. The databases are listed by subject, and alphabetically by name at: http://www.wmich.edu/library/articles/

Librarians are available to assist students and faculty in any aspect of the research process or accessing and using library resources. Librarians may meet with you in person, or when requested by an instructor can make in-class presentations. In addition, Librarians hold a series of open computer lab sessions each term. Check with your campus for dates and registration information.

Other online tutorials and assistance are provided as well at:
http://www.wmich.edu/library/guides/tutorials.php

Yes. The WMU Libraries Document Delivery service is available for off campus students who do not live in the Kalamazoo or Portage area. Articles are normally scanned and delivered electronically via the web in about 24 hours. More information on setting up the account and using the service are available here: http://www.wmich.edu/library/ill/tutorial.pdf

The WMU libraries provide access to licensed electronic resources only to current WMU students, faculty, and staff. At this time it is not possible for us to provide access for alumni or people not affiliated with WMU. However you may come to the WMU libraries in Kalamazoo and access all our electronic resources from Waldo Library.  Maps and directions are available at: http://www.pp.wmich.edu/buildings/061.html

An alternative access method to some excellent databases and resources is available through the Michigan Electronic Library, available at: www.mel.org. This site is available to all Michigan residents, and can be logged into with a valid Michigan Drivers License. MEL provides a number of databases with full text articles, as well as e-books and electronic reference sources.

You should also check with your local public library. Many public libraries provide remote access to a variety of electronic sources.

Students can normally use the services of the public libraries located in their home areas. Materials in all public libraries may be used within the library by any visitor, and generally may be checked out if you are a patron of that library. NOTE: Access to academic and special libraries may be limited due to space and staff limitations in these libraries. Preference is normally given to students of that institution.