E-Learning | Helpful Links for Faculty and Students - College of Charleston Libraries
The Libraries are dedicated to Cougars’ academic success and to the health and safety of the College’s communities. This commitment remains steadfast, especially during times of uncertainty.
During this year’s Spring Break and e-learning period, the Libraries team is available to aid students and faculty online. Out of an abundance of caution for users, the Libraries’ physical facilities will be inaccessible beginning March 17, 2020.
But this doesn’t mean the Libraries are closed; the Libraries are online to serve all Cougars.
“Our virtual Addlestone Library Access & Instruction Desk is staffed and operating during regularly scheduled hours,” said Christa Poparad, Associate Dean for Access, Instruction, & Assessment. “Our branch libraries are also providing virtual services via their websites. In addition, our Librarians are prepared to provide online instruction in OAKS and research consultations via Zoom.”
To assist faculty and students, the Libraries have collected helpful links and guides for remotely accessing materials and services.
To aid the campus community during this transition, answers to several frequently asked questions are included below. And remember: the Libraries are here for you! Chat, text, or schedule a Zoom appointment at answers.library.cofc.edu.
Q: When will the Libraries’ physical facilities reopen?
A: In partnership with the College’s administration, the Libraries will return to normal operating hours once students are cleared to return to campus. Click here for up-to-date library hours for all College Libraries.
Q: How do I get help from a librarian or library staff if I’m off campus?
A: The Libraries provide virtual Access & Instruction services. Chat, text, or schedule a Zoom appointment at answers.library.cofc.edu. The Libraries also provide research guides for a variety of subjects and topics, including a guide on how to begin research. Click here for more information.
Q: How do I access articles, databases, and other resources from home or away from the Library
A: Accessing library resources from off-campus requires authentication using MyCharleston credentials. To access library resources from off-campus, you need to authenticate yourself through the CofC Libraries’ home page, library.cofc.edu, or directly through login.nuncio.cofc.edu/login. Click here for more information.
Q: What if I do not have Internet access at home?
A: Some Internet providers are offering Internet access at no cost during the pandemic. Please be aware this information is subject to change quickly–confirm details with each provider.
Q: What if my book is due while I am away from campus during Spring Break?
A:During the e-learning period, late fees for library materials will not be accrued. However, late fees will accrue after face-to-face classes resume (unless notified otherwise). Eligible library items can be renewed through your MyLibrary Account. Click here for more information.
Q: Can I still use PASCAL and Interlibrary Loan during Spring Break.
A: PASCAL Delivers service and Interlibrary Loan for physical books have been suspended, effective March 16, 2020. However, you may continue to place requests for journal articles and book chapters. Click here for more information.
Q: How do I schedule Zoom library instruction for my students?
A: Contact your department’s Library Liaison or submit your instruction request online. Click here for more information.
Q: How do I share library resources with my class in OAKS?
A: The best way to share articles, ebooks, and other library resources with your students is to provide links in OAKS. Be sure to use the permalink (sometimes called persistent link or stable URL) provided by the database. Click here for more information.
“Over the last five years, the Libraries have made significant investments in e-books and online learning platforms,” said John W. White, Dean of the College Libraries. “We have also ensured that our librarians, archivists, and staff are well-prepared to support online learning. We are well-positioned to offer resources and instruction in support of the College’s curriculum through E-Learning and virtual research support. We will provide high-quality services in a virtual environment for the duration of the COVID-19 related emergency.”