Frequently Asked Questions

• Does the library have books?
  • Yes! The library has an extensive collection of fiction and non-fiction books to read for class or for fun. 
• Where are the books?
  • It depends on the book. Children's books, young adult books, and best sellers/new releases are on the first floor.
  • Most other books are on the third and fourth floors.
• How do I find a book? 
  • To find a book, search the library catalog (Novacat) by keyword, title, author, subject, or ISN number. 
  • Once you find the book you want, make a note of the Call Number so you can locate it on the library shelves. 
• How do I read a Library of Congress call number?
  • The Library of Congress classification system uses a combination of letters and numbers to arrange materials on library shelves by subject.
  • Please see our Library Call Numbers guide for more detailed instructions. 
• I still can't find my book!
  • Ask a librarian! Library staff at the first floor Public Library Services desk and second floor Reference Desk are happy to help you find the book on the shelf.
• How do I borrow a book?
  • Take the book to the first floor Circulation Desk and check it out with your SharkCard.
• What else can I borrow at the library?
  • You can borrow videogames, DVDs, Blu-Rays, calculators, and molecular models with your SharkCard.
• Does the library have videogames?
  • Yes! They are shelved by gaming system on the first floor. Happy playing!
• How many items can I check out?
  • It depends on the library resource.
  • Circulation policies are available here.

• How do I find an eBook?
  • There are multiple ways to search for eBooks.
  • You can search the library catalog and use the advanced search filter for "E-Book."
  • You can also download the free CloudLibrary app and download books within the app. 
  • Learn more about downloading eBooks here. 
• Can I borrow an audiobook?
  • Yes! Audiobooks are available as a streaming download and CD format.
  • Learn more about downloading audiobooks here.
• Are eBooks free?
  • There is no cost to borrow library books.
  • Login to eBook and audiobook databases using your NSU SharkID and password.
• How do I download eBooks and audiobooks to my phone?
  • Learn more about downloading 
• Can I read books over the summer?
  • Yes! As long as you are enrolled for the upcoming semester, you can use all library resources over the winter and summer breaks.

• Can I check out a laptop?
  • Currently enrolled NSU students can check out a laptop from the OIIT desk on the first floor of the Alvin Sherman Library.
• How long is the checkout period for a laptop?
  • ​​​​​​​Short term checkouts are up to 24 hours.
  • Long term checkouts are up to 7 days.
• Can the laptop leave the building?
  • ​​​​​​​Laptops can leave the building once checked out.

For more information about laptop borrowing, please contact the Office of Innovation and Information Technology (OIIT) at 954-262-4646.