Please remember that public libraries are very busy places, and, while the librarians are generally very willing to help you find the resources that you need, they will not be able to spend a great deal of time helping you use the resources. Librarians at public libraries expect college students to do the majority of their research, and to receive instruction in how to use the resources, at their college library. Return to top Academic libraries Community colleges, colleges, and universities all have libraries supporting their instructional programs. If you need to use an academic library beyond St. Thomas, make sure that the library you choose supports your research needs. Just because the University of Minnesota has a large collection doesn't necessarily mean that it is the best academic library in the Twin Cities to research a theology paper.
Adademic libraries have diverse loan policies.
Unless you are a University of Minnesota student, staff member, or alumni, you cannot check out materials from the libraries at the University of Minnesota. Academic libraries will have varying hours for reference service, and policies concerning the use of their computerized databases. Again, calling a library before you visit is always a good idea. While most academic reference librarians are very willing to assist students from other institutions, please remember that the students and faculty of that institution are their primary responsibility. You should not monopolize the librarian's time, especially if the library is full of students.