Accessibility Library Tutorial Proxy Policies Staff Directory
Where is the library?
The Ralph W. Steen Library can be found here on the campus map.
When is the library open?
Hours of operation for the library can be found in the "hours" section of the library's homepage, located in the purple bar towards the top of the page. This section includes standard, and special/holiday hours.
What is "My Library Account?"
Use “My Library Account” in the library’s Online Catalog to see what items you have checked out, if you owe a fine, or to place a hold on checked-out material. To use the “My Library Account” feature, contact the Steen Library or the Nacogdoches Public Library for assistance.
What rooms are available for meetings and group study?
Group study rooms on the 3rd and 4th floors are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are eight such rooms on the 3rd floor, and ten on the 4th floor. The Wyatt Room on the first floor can be reserved for university-related receptions, large group meetings, lectures, etc. Capacity seating ranges from 60 to 100 people. Contact the Circulation Desk (468-1497) to reserve the Wyatt Room. Online map
Whom do I contact about getting my dissertation or thesis bound?
Contact Technical Services at 468-1671.
Where can I have a snack or beverage?
Einstein Brothers Bagels and a vending area are located just outside the main entrance of the library.
Are there telephones available for the general public?
There are two telephones available for public use in the library. They are near the Circulation Desk.
Are there soundproof rooms in the library?
Two soundproof rooms, equipped with listening equipment and electronic keyboards, are located in the Music/Audiovisual area on the 1st floor. Online map
How do I schedule a library instruction class for my students?
Faculty may request a library instruction lecture for students by submitting the Request Library Instruction form or by contacting a research librarian. Sessions are typically held during scheduled class time in one of the library's computer classrooms, although some may be scheduled for other locations.
Where can I get help with research?
Research librarians are available to assist you and can be contacted here.
What is 360Search?
360Search is a federated search engine, meaning a user can search multiple online databases simultaneously.
What is the difference between a magazine article and a journal article?
A magazine article is one from a non-refereed publication that is published often with characteristics such as a lot of advertising, articles not signed, and no bibliography at the end of an article. (Example: Time, Newsweek, Business Week, etc.)
A journal article is one from a scholarly refereed publication that is published often with characteristics such as long articles with bibliographies, authors name given, and not a lot of advertising.
Where can I find full-text articles?
Several research databases provide the entire text of magazine and journal articles. Look for general databases when selecting a subject from the subject guides. Not all citations will contain full-text articles but many will.
Where are the children's books located?
They are on the 4th floor in the Curriculum Collection in the open area behind the elevators. In our catalog the Curriculum Collection will be indicated by SFA Cur.
How do I find music scores?
To find music scores, do a keyword search in the Library Catalog (for example, type the name of the composer) and use the Limit by Materials pulldown menu to limit to Scores.
What are LC subjects?
The Library of Congress Subject Headings are the “official” subjects cataloging librarians use when adding materials to the Online Catalog. Searching the catalog by subject can be a frustrating experience unless you know exactly what subject heading to use. Try doing a general keyword search and then choosing from the list of subjects displayed on the “Item Information” screen.
Where can I find dissertations and theses?
Dissertations & Theses (ProQuest) includes bibliographic citations for dissertations and theses world wide from 1861 to the present with full text access available for the newer titles and abstracts available for the older titles.
What databases does the library subscribe to?
A complete listing of databases can be found here.
Where is the Maps Collection?
Maps are found on the 2nd floor adjacent to Academic Advising. Online map
How do I properly cite my sources?
The library subscribes to the RefWorks citation software for SFASU student and faculty use. It covers citation styles for many different disciplines. For a more in-depth explanation on formatting styles, and to find other sources of information, refer to the cite your source tutorial. Also, 2 very useful (and free!) sites for information regarding citing your sources are Citation Machine and KnightCite
Where can I find computers in the library?
The Library Information Network Center and the LINC classroom together provide more than 130 networked computers. The LINC is located on the 1st floor of the library adjacent to the AARC. Infolab1 and Infolab2 both have 30 computers. Infolab1 is on the 1st floor near the Circulation Desk. Infolab2 is in the northeast corner of the 2nd floor. Dedicated research stations are located throughout the library on all floors.
How much does it cost to print?
Simply print the document as you normally would, then tell an assistant at the LINC or Circulation Desk the station ID of the computer, as well as how many copies you want and if you want b/w or color prints.
What applications are available on the LINC computers?
Our computer lab and classrooms offer a wide variety of applications. All networked computers provide access to the Microsoft Office suite of products as well as Internet access, the Corel WordPerfect suite and applications installed at the request of faculty.
What services are available for disabled patrons?
An adaptive workstation with a screen magnifier, speech synthesizer and Braille printer is available in the LINC.
How do I reserve a technology classroom?
Faculty and staff can reserve the LINC classroom for university-related instructions or presentations by contacting the LINC service desk (468-1498). Infolab1 and Infolab2 can be reserved by contacting the Circulation Desk (468-1497).
What equipment is available for classroom instructors?
All technology classrooms have an instructor station with an attached projector. Infolab1 and infolab2 are each equipped with a SmartBoard.
How do I get my OpScan test graded?
OpScan tests must be dropped off at the LINC desk. The service is available Monday – Friday, from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm. Tests are accepted beginning the first day of class and until the day final grades are due each semester. Contact the OpScan desk (468-1693) for more information.
How do I access databases remotely?
Many research databases are available only to computers connected to SFA’s network. For remote users, or those using an Internet Service Provider, a proxy server allows access to these databases. The recommended way of using these services is to log in to your mySFA account and access the library’s web site from there. Students can also access the proxy by going directly to the library’s web site and choosing a database. You will be prompted to input a userid and password. Use your campus ID# and mySFA PIN to sign into the proxy server. For more information, visit our proxy page.
How do I obtain a computer guest account if I am not a student or SFA employee?
Guest accounts may be requested at the Information Desk, the LINC Desk, or the Circulation Desk. Accounts are valid for 1 day, and a library card or valid ID must be presented for an account to be authorized. Please allow 5 minutes from the time the account is approved until it becomes active.
Is wireless internet access available in the library?
Yes! Students, faculty, and staff can access the SFA LAWN anywhere in the library. Instructions for connecting to the network are provided at the LINC and Circulation desks.
What is SI?
Supplemental Instruction (SI) is an Academic Assistance and Resource Center (AARC) program comprised of study groups for historically difficult courses. These groups are led by students who have already made an A in those courses.
What is Content Studies?
The Content Studies Program provides free one-on-one and small group tutoring for the following curriculum courses. Tutoring for additional courses is provided when there is a demand, and when staffing limitations permit.
What is peer tutoring?
Peer tutoring is one-on-one tutoring by SFA students.
How much does it cost for the tutoring service in the AARC?
Tutoring is free.
How do I get help writing a paper?
You can reserve a peer writing tutor by going to the AARC homepage and making an appointment. Also, writing tutors are available for consultation at the writing walk-in table. The walk-in table is staffed Monday – Thursday from 1:00pm – 8:00pm and no appointment is necessary.
Is tutoring available to anyone not affiliated with SFA?
Tutoring is limited to SFA students.
I tried signing up for a peer tutor, and there were no appointments available for my course. I added myself to the waiting list. Are there any more tutoring options available to me?
Check the walk-in table schedule to see if tutoring for your course is offered there. The walk-in tables do not require an appointment.
How do I become a tutor?
Contact the AARC Desk (468-4108) for information on becoming a tutor.
Where can I send or receive a fax?
Faxes can be sent or received at the Circulation Desk, located on the first floor to the left of the elevators as you enter the building. Online map
To Send a Fax:
To Receive a Fax:
Public Fax Number: (936) 468-7296
Where can I find photocopiers or microfilm / microfiche readers?
Self-service copy machines are located in the Audiovisual and Reserve rooms on the first floor and in the ETRC on the second floor. Cost per copy is 10 cents. Microfilm and fiche readers are located on all floors. Microfilm and fiche printers are located in the audiovisual room. Cost per copy is 25 cents. Digital images may be made from microfilm or microfiche on a machine in the Audiovisual Area. These images may be copied to flash drive, e-mailed or printed to the laser printer.
Where can I find course reserves?
Traditional (Print) Reserves (search catalog by instructor or course)
The Traditional Reserve Collection includes print and audiovisual materials which circulate for shortened loan periods. Search for these materials in the Library’s catalog by the faculty or course name. Simply present a valid University ID to check out materials at the Circulation Desk.
Electronic Reserves (search by course number, course name, instructor name, or department)
Electronic Reserve Collection (ERes) includes digitized copies of documents such as sample exams, syllabi, problem sets, readings, lecture notes, and articles. ERes material is available 24/7 from any internet enabled computer on or off campus. When connecting from off-campus, be sure to login to the Library’s website through mySFA to access electronic reserves.
Where can I find magazines and newspapers?
Current issues are available in the reserve room on the 1st floor while older issues are shelved by call# on the 3rd and 4th floors. Search the catalog to find the call# and location.
Many articles are available online, search journals@steen for availability.
Where can I find media, such as audio and video recordings?
Audio and/or video CD and DVD recordings are available from the Circulation Desk. Search the catalog for the call #.
Does the library have a TDD?
Yes; the Library has a TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf). It is available at the Circulation Desk (468-4538) and can be checked out for 2 hours and used with the public phones.
Can I return Nacogdoches Public Library books to Steen Library?
Yes; Steen Library accepts and process materials borrowed from NPL, and books borrowed from Steen Library can be returned to NPL as well.
Can I renew materials online?
Renewals can be made using My Library Account in the Online Catalog as long as the item is not overdue, in person at the Circulation Desk or by calling the Circulation Desk (468-1497).
How long can I borrow books and other library materials?
Most books have a 21 day loan period. Reserve and other materials have shorter periods. Check with the Circulation Desk for specific lengths of time materials can be borrowed.
How many times can I renew a book?
Material may be renewed as long as there are no holds and the borrower’s record has not been blocked.
What are the fines for overdue books and materials?
Fines for items with loan periods of three weeks or longer are 10 cents per day, with 1-day grace period.
Fines for items with loan periods varying from overnight to less than three weeks are 50 cents per day, with no grace period.
Fines for items with hourly loan periods are 1 cent per minute, with no grace period.
Maximum fine per item is $10.00.
Can I borrow materials from other libraries?
To request items not available in Steen Library, use ILLiad -- the Interlibrary Loan Ordering System.
Where do I check out books?
Books can be checked out at the Circulation Desk, located on the first floor. Online map
What is the difference between a “hold” and a “recall”?
Both apply to materials that have been checked out. Items with a 21-day or longer loan period may have a hold placed on them. A recall may be placed on any item that has been checked out more than 21 days. Faculty may place an immediate recall on an item to be placed on Reserve.
How do I place a hold on a book?
A hold may be placed in person at the Circulation Desk, by sending an e-mail message to circdesk@sfasu.edu, or by clicking on “request item” or “request copy” when you’ve identified your book in the Online Catalog. Note you must have signed up for “My Library Account” to place a hold using the catalog.
When I try to place a hold on a book in the Online Catalog, I get the message “This title is not available for requests.” Why does this happen?
Only items that are already checked out can have holds placed. Checked in items are available in the library and a hold is not required.
What is a “trace”?
If you are unable to locate an item identified in the Online Catalog as being checked-in, contact the Circulation Desk to trace the item for you. You will be notified when the item is located.
How do I donate books?
If you have something you would like to share with the library, please contact the Technical Services area at 468-5187.
What should I do if I lose a book?
All borrowers are expected to pay the replacement cost for lost or damaged items, plus a $10 processing fee per item. Overdue fines are not included in the replacement cost.
Where can I return my books?
Please return items to the Steen Library Circulation Desk on the first floor, the book drop located on the north side of Steen Library, or to the Nacogdoches Public Library.
How and where can I pay a library fine?
Fine payments are accepted at the Circulation Desk, located on the first floor. Online map
The library accepts Jack Bucks, cash or check. Checks can be mailed to Steen Library Circulation Desk, Box 13055 SFA Station, Nacogdoches, Tx. 75962.
What if I pay for a lost book and then find it?
Refunds are available if the lost book is returned within 6 months. Contact the Circulation Desk (468-1497) for more information. The $10.00 handling fee for a lost book is non-refundable.
What should I do if I get an overdue notice for a book which I have already returned?
Contact the Circulation Desk (468-1497) immediately.
What is Digital Projects?
The Digital Projects department develops and coordinates projects for the SFA community, within the Steen Library, and beyond. Currently, Digital Projects is developing the Teaching Images and Digital Experiences (TIDES) web site.
What is TIDES?
Teaching Images and Digital Experiences (TIDES) is a consortium gateway to rich historical, cultural and scientific resources held in Texas and Mexican libraries, museums, archives, historical societies, private collections, etc. These resources (photographs, scanned documents and artifacts, video and more) are accompanied by custom-made, standards-based curriculum material and are freely available to teachers, students, and researchers worldwide. Visit our portal at http://tides.sfasu.edu to see some of the many resources available for teachers, students, and community users-- or visit the online database community at http://tides.sfasu.edu:2006/index.php. For more information about the TIDES story visit http://tides.sfasu.edu/Teachers/Tides/docs/tidesStory.html.
What types of materials can I find in the TIDES database?
As a portal to the contributing institution’s collections, the materials in TIDES represent only a small percentage of items in contributing institutions and have been chosen in some cases to focus on a particular collection or period. Any of the contributing institutions can be contacted for further information about their materials online or in-house. Visit this free online searchable resource at http://tides.sfasu.edu:2006/index.php and browse maps, historical documents, artifacts and correspondence, current life photographs, art works, scientific photographs and more.
May I use TIDES content and images?
Yes, the copyright policy can be found here.
How do I contact Digital Projects?
The Digital Projects department can be reached at 468-5515.
Who are the TIDES partners?
Visit our partners’ page for current participants. We are always seeking new partnerships at the university, community, state, national and international levels.
Is Digital Projects equipment available for use by faculty?
No, at this time equipment can only be used by Digital Projects personnel.
If I have something to add to TIDES, whom do I contact?
The Digital Projects department can be reached at 468-5515.
Can I obtain TIDES material on CD / DVD?
DVD’s, CD’s, raw video and document print out of the TIDES materials is available to ensure you spend more time on the resources and less time on formatting challenges. Visit our site at http://tides.sfasu.edu/Teachers/Tides/docs/LearningCom/media.html to order materials; make sure you have the following information: Your name, your school, the videos or documents you need, and the format required. This service is free for teachers and other educational uses.
How can I find out more about Digital Projects and TIDES initiatives?
Contact the Digital Projects department by email at AskDigitalProjects@sfasu.edu.
What collections are available?
For a full list of collections see the ETRC site.
How do I request copies of archived material?
Please contact the ETRC at 468-4100 for pricing and delivery options.
When is the East Texas Research Center open?
The ETRC is open from 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday, as well as from 10am to 5pm on Saturdays.
What materials are housed in the ETRC?
The ETRC contains materials relating to East Texas in general-- both corporate and personal.
How do I donate materials to the ETRC?
If you have something you would like to share with the ETRC, please contact the ETRC's desk at 468-4100.
Can I borrow materials from the ETRC?
Currently, only county records on microfilm can be borrowed from library-to-library. All other material must be used in the ETRC.
What is the oldest item in the ETRC?
The ETRC houses documents dating back to 1647.
How can I research my family history?
The ETRC can help you research your family history! This task is more easily performed when you know names of relatives as far back as possible. The ETRC can trace family trees as far as the US Census records will show. You can view them yourself using Heritage Quest.
If I have an in-depth question that may take some time to answer, can the ETRC answer it?
For detailed people searches, the ETRC has a list of researchers who are willing to take on requests. These services are fee based.
If I loan materials to the ETRC, can I reacquire them later?
Although no loan material will be accepted, certain contributions to the archive can be digitized by Digital Projects, and the original returned shortly thereafter.
Does the ETRC also keep historical artifacts?
The ETRC only archives historical records-- artifacts can be found at the Stone Fort Museum.
Does the ETRC welcome storytellers?
Absolutely! Please call the ETRC desk at 468-4100 for details on how to share your story with us.
Where can I find answers to questions regarding records retention?
Visit our site for a detailed description, schedule, and forms.
