University library services
Learning Commons

1.1 Users

The library information service is for use by all undergraduate and graduate students (including research students) that possess a TU ID. User registration, etc. is not necessary to use the system.

1.2 Location and method of use

• The library information service can be accessed on the TU Library website using a web browser from an information device, such as a personal computer or smartphone with an Internet connection.
• The Learning Commons is on the first floor of the main library. You can use the flexible work area and box seats for personal computers for users and group study.

Library online services possess various functions, including an archive search, MyLibrary (personal dedicated page), academic information search tool, and electronic material viewing.

2.1 Connection method

Bring up a web browser on a computer with an Internet connection, and access the library website (http://www.library.tohoku.ac.jp/).

Once you connect to the library website, the TU library home page will appear, as shown in the figure below. This page In addition to the link to online services, including an information search provided by the library, there is a user guide and summaries. The library provides various information related to the library, including notifications. Select and use the desired service from this page.

Figure 1.　Home Page for the Library Website

2.2 Search archives

The library search system OPAC can be used to search for books, magazines and electronic books that are part of the university’s collection. However search cannot be conducted for classics, special collections (private collections), and books that are a part of a laboratory collection. There are two types of archive searches, a simplified search that uses the search window and a detailed search.

2.2.1 Search from the search window

The search window, (1) in Figure 1, facilitates searches for books and magazines that are a part of the TU collection.

2.2.2 Detailed search

Click on “Detailed search,” (1) in Figure 1, and the detailed search page will appear, as shown in Figure 2. It is possible to conduct a detailed search on this page by setting search criteria.

Figure 2.　Detailed Search

2.3 MyLibrary (Dedicated personal page)

MyLibrary is a dedicated personal page where procedures can be performed online, including confirming the name of materials borrowed and the deadline for returning the materials or extending the borrowing period, and reservations to borrow materials and request purchases. When using MyLibrary, first click on the “Login” button, (2) in Figure 1. Next, log on into the MyLibrary page (Figure 3). Input your TU ID and TU password, and click the “Login” button. After you log in, the home page of MyLibrary (Figure 4) will appear.

Figure 3.　MyLibrary login page

Figure 4.　MyLibrary home page

The following online services are available in MyLibrary.

2.3.1 Confirm the name of the materials borrowed and the deadline for returning the materials, extend the borrowing period

Confirmation of the name of materials borrowed or the deadline for returning materials borrowed can be done from (7) “Inquiry about borrowing and reservations” in Figure 4. The period for borrowing materials can be extended within the deadline for returning materials, without a reservation by others and as long it is within the limited number of times for extending the borrowing period.

2.3.2 Reserve materials/request from another campus library

• You can reserve materials that are currently lent out or request books that are part of a collection at other campus libraries. Search for materials that have to be reserved or that you want to order. (Click on the “Detailed search” button and the detailed search screen will appear.) Click on the title you wish to check out from the search results, open the detailed screen for the materials, and click on the “Reserve” button.
• You can cancel a reservation or order from the “Inquiry on the status of borrowing or reservations,” (7) in Figure 4.

2.3.3 Copying documents/request from another university library

• In the event you cannot obtain the materials you request from the library you regularly use, you can obtain a copy of the document, mainly by making a request to another university library going through the library you regularly use or borrow the actual materials. The cost of making copies and postal fees will be incurred when using this service.
• Search for materials you want to copy or order from a “Domestic university library,” (6) in Figure 4. (Click the “Detailed search” button and the detailed search screen will appear.) Click on the title you wish to check out from the search results, open the detailed screen for the materials, and click on the “Application to copy or borrow documents” button.
• When you cannot find the materials you desire when performing a book collection search, submit an application from “Application to copy or borrow documents,” (7) in Figure 4.
• You can cancel an order from “Application to copy or borrow documents,” (7) in Figure 4.

2.3.4 Request purchase of a book

In the event you want to request purchase of a book that is not in a campus library, make a “Student request for a book,” (7) in Figure 4. (However, some requests cannot be accommodated.)

2.4 Use various search tools

”Database and tool index,” (4) in Figure 1, is a collection of links to more than 170 types of useful databases. There are links to databases to search for Japanese-language books, foreign-language books, newspaper articles and encyclopedias. For contractual reasons, in principle, use is restricted to access from a campus network.

2.5 Use electronic journal

An electronic journal is a magazine that can be searched and viewed via web browser. There are more than 10,000 titles that can be used at TU. In principle, they can be used from the campus network. You can search electronic journals provided by TU from the “Electronic journal list,” (3) in Figure 1. For electronic journals, comply with the precautions for use that are shown on the screen and use properly.

2.6 Off-campus use of a database or electronic journal (GakuNin)

There are databases and electronic journals that can be used from off-campus. Confirm the method of usage from the URL below (Library webpage).

Library webpage

2.7 View academic research results and educational results at TU

The TU repository TOUR, (5) in Figure 1, is a system that collects, stores and discloses for free the academic research results and educational results of TU. More than 40,000 digitalized magazine articles, bulletin papers, doctoral thesis abstracts, and full doctoral and master theses are disclosed.

2.8 Consultations on collecting information

The library will support the obtaining and reviewing documents and information necessary for learning and research. “Reference service,” (7) in Figure 4, is an online application service, including preliminary reviews, review of archive materials, etc. The library will send the content of the review by email. We accept the following questions.

• How to search for literature necessary for learning and research
• How to search for matters that are unknown for learning and research
• Search through the archives at TU and other universities
• How to use the main library, annex and library room

The Learning Commons accounts for the major portion of the University Library. This is a shared or common area for independent study. Students can not only read and study in quiet, but can also create reports or search for information in the computer area, or implement collaborative learning, including holding debate discussions and training in the flexible work area or in a global study room.

Flexible work area and box seats (booths)

Computer area

• The flexible work area is an open area where students can study in groups while holding conversations. There are around 80 seats. Students can freely use any combination of chairs, desks and whiteboards. When speaking, make sure to use a small voice. Inquire in advance at the main counter if you desire to use this area for an event or other functions.
• There are five (5) box seats in the student area that are simply partitioned into boxes and are feasible for use for two (2) or more people.
• In the computer area, students can use computers made available to users. See Section 4 for personal computers for users (students).

There are computers installed at libraries on each campus that are available for use for students. Students can use the Internet and Microsoft Office. In addition, printers are also installed. They are available for use at a fee.

4.1 Accessing the Internet

A student can access the Internet via their personal computer by opening a browser. User authentication will be required should you access an off-campus website. Input the TU ID and TU ID-Password into the username and password bar.

4.2 Using campus Wi-Fi services

At the libraries on each campus, campus Wi-Fi services are available for use with devices, including on laptops and smartphones that students have brought with them. See the explanation on Campus Wi-Fi (eduroam) services on the access method, etc.

• Check with the library reference desk for details on how to use the library information system
• Check with the main counter at the library on how to use the Learnings Commons.