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Resources for New Students: Library Basics

Where are the libraries?

Miami University has multiple libraries across its campuses, so it depends on what you need! 

Rentschler Library is the library that is located on the Hamilton campus. The library can be found on the second floor of Schwarm Hall and is open Monday - Friday 8:000 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Gardner Harvey Library is the library that is located on the Middletown campus. The library can be found on first floor of the Gardner-Harvey building. 

Lastly, Miami University Oxford has three more libraries that all students are welcome to use. You can learn more about those libraries here: Miami University Oxford Libraries.

Where should I study?

You should study wherever you can work best! A coffee shop, your home, or come join us and many other students here in the library. Rentschler Library offers students a range of options for students to take advantage of when it comes time to study:

  • We offer 7 individual study rooms that students can use on a first-come-first-serve basis during the library's open hours
  • We offer 5 group study rooms that can be reserved for two hours at a time. These are great for group projects and collaborating with your peers. You can learn more about them by visiting our Study Rooms webpage. 
  • Comfortable seating and tables scattered throughout the library with a dedicated quiet zone and study carrels in the back half of the library. 
  • Roughly 40+ desktop computers throughout the library that students may use at any time by logging in with their uniqueID and password.

How do I checkout books and find other resources?

You can check out books and other equipment for free at the circulation desks at our Libraries

  • Through the Libraries, you have access to millions of books and other media. Even if Miami doesn’t have it, we will borrow it from another library for you. Students can check out items for 3 weeks and you can renew items online.
  • We have many course textbooks and other class reserves. You can borrow these for 2 hours for use inside our library locations. We also have a variety of electronics and equipment for free checkout: laptops, tablets, cameras, cords and chargers.
  • You also have access to a plethora of online resources through our website. Find articles, databases, ebooks and course specific resources without leaving your the comfort of your home!

How do I print?

You can print to Rentschler Library’s print stations from any of our public computers or from your personal devices.

  • Black-and-white printing costs $.10 per page, while color printing costs $.25 per page. Black-and-white or color photocopies can also be made using the printer/photocopier.
  • In order to print, student will need to add money to their MUlaa accounts! We are a cashless campus, so your student ID and your MUlaa account is the only way to pay! Please note that funds may not be available immediately for print usage.
  • You can also scan documents and send them directly to your email or Google Drive at no charge!

Need help? There is someone available at front desk who is happy to assist you with the printing process. 

How do I get help?

Librarians are a great resource!

  • Librarians are skilled in finding and evaluating resources. All of our librarians can help with finding, evaluating and integrating sources for your papers and projects.

  • Our librarians are available for help online, at library information desks, by email, phone or for in-office consultations. Librarians often come to classrooms to help teach instruction sessions for finding sources for a particular class.

  • Just ASK US!