【留学準備必読】海外大学図書館を120%活用する英語表現完全ガイド

Emily: Hey, Jason! Are you going to the library this afternoon?

Jason: Yeah, I need to work on my research paper. I want to use the academic database to find some journal articles.

Emily: Good idea. I also have to find a few more references for my paper. By the way, did you already reserve a study room?

Jason: Not yet. I’ll try to reserve one online before I go. If I can’t get a room, I’ll just use a study cubicle.

Emily: Sounds good. I might ask the librarian for help with the catalog. I’m not sure how to find books on my topic.

Jason: The librarians are really helpful. Just tell them your research topic and they’ll show you how to search the catalog or use the interlibrary loan service.

Emily: Thanks, you too! See you at the library.

Student: Hi, I’m new here. Could you help me use the library?

Librarian: Of course! Do you have your library card? You’ll need it to borrow books.

Student: Yes, I have it. I want to find some books for my research paper. Where should I start?

Librarian: You can use the catalog on those computers to search for books by title, author, or subject. If you need help, just ask at the information desk.

Student: Thank you. Once I find a book in the catalog, how do I get it?

Librarian: Check the call number and go to the stacks to find the book on the shelf. If the book is checked out or not in our library, you can request it through interlibrary loan.

Student: That’s helpful. Is there a place where I can study quietly?

Librarian: Yes, we have a reading room and a silent study area for quiet study. If you’re working with a group, you can reserve a group study room online.

Student: Great! Also, how do I print or copy pages?

Librarian: You can use the printing/photocopying area next to the information desk. If you want to take notes, you can use the study cubicles on the third floor.

Student: Thank you so much! One last thing—how do I return books?

Librarian: Just drop them in the book return bin near the entrance. And if you need more time, you can renew your books online.

Student: That’s very clear. I appreciate your help!

Librarian: You’re welcome! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask any librarian.

Guide for New Students: How to Use the Library

1. Entering and Navigating the Library

• Bring your student ID or library card to enter the library and borrow books.
• At the entrance, you’ll find an information desk or help desk. If you’re unsure where to start, ask the librarian for help.
• Use the library map or floor signs to locate different sections, such as the stacks(bookshelves), reading room, silent study area, and group study rooms.

2. Finding and Borrowing Books

• Use the library catalog (online or at a kiosk) to search for books by title, author, or subject.
  • Enter search terms related to your topic.
  • Write down the call number to find the book’s location on the shelf.
• If you need a book that is checked out or at another library, use the reserve or interlibrary loanservice.
• To borrow a book, take it to the self-service kiosk or circulation desk. Remember to check the due date and keep your receipt.

3. Study Spaces and Facilities

• For quiet study, use the reading room, silent study area, or study cubicle.
• For group work or presentations, reserve a group study room online in advance.
• There are computer labs and printing/photocopying areas for research and assignments.
• Use lockers to store your belongings if needed.

4. Research for Papers and Projects

• Start by choosing a research topic and formulating a research question.
• Search the database for academic articles, journals, and e-books.
• Collect bibliographic information (author, title, year, etc.) for your references and bibliography.
• Take notes and organize your sources.
• If you need help finding materials or using databases, ask the librarian for help.

5. Preparing for Presentations

• Use library resources to find reliable information and visual aids (charts, images, statistics).
• Borrow books or print articles for background research.
• Prepare your slides and handouts using information from trusted sources.
• Practice your presentation in a group study room if possible.

6. Citing Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism

• Always cite your sources using the required citation style (APA, MLA, etc.).
• Use citation tools provided by the library website to help format your references.
• Avoid plagiarism by paraphrasing and giving credit to all sources.

7. Returning and Renewing Books

• Return books by the due date using the book return bin or at the circulation desk.
• If you need more time, renew the book online or at the desk before the due date.

8. Additional Tips

• Check library hours and special rules (e.g., food/drink policies, quiet zones).
• Attend library orientation sessions or workshops for extra support.
• If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask the librarian—they are there to help you succeed!