First Steps for your First Year at Ohio State

Get started with University Libraries

First Year Success Series

arial photo of campus

The First Year Success Series (FYSS) includes hundreds of sessions to help students successfully transition to college life in a variety of ways.

University Libraries offers several different sessions, both in Carmen and in person. To learn about sessions offered by University Libraries, visit go.osu.edu/libraryfyss.

Course Reserves

We have textbooks and other course materials

Access hundreds of course materials on reserve for short-term use. Learn how to avoid fines, what you'll need to check out items, and how to get materials on reserve that aren't available right now.

More on Course Reserves


Search for your class to find out if there are materials on reserve

Click to search for textbooks and other materials

Reserve a Room

University Libraries locations have a variety of study spaces available for individuals and groups. For group study spaces, reserve your spot in advance by clicking the link below.

Reserve a Group Study Room 

Thompson Library Grand Reading room

University Libraries is here for you from the start. With so much to learn in your first year at Ohio State, you’re going to need some help. University Libraries is a great place to start for:


Accessing Library Resources

The library website can be found at library.osu.edu

Play this video to learn how to search for books in the library catalog.

 

You can also access the library directly within Carmen. Play the video below to learn how. 


Personalized Guidance

Get virtual or in-person peer-to-peer help at Ask Us. We can help you find articles, access library materials, navigate the physical library space and more. 

Check out A+ Research Coaching for one-on-one coaching to help you navigate your research assignments from start to finish. 

Round red circle reading A+ research coaching


Need Help Getting Started with Your Research?

 

flow chart diagram with map of research processHere is a Map of the Research Process. This diagram helps when getting started and can guide you when you are stuck to figure out what to do next.

(click image to see larger version)

Accessible Version

 

 

 

cover page of choosing & using sources textbook

Choosing & Using Sources: A Guide to Academic Research is a free eBook on completing research-based writing assignments and projects.

Library Locations

Find your favorite library!

We have many locations across campus. 

Enter the location address into the Ohio State App to get directions via the campus map.

 

North Campus Library Locations

Closest to these residence halls: Archer, Barrett, Blackburn, Bowen, Busch, Drackett, Gateway, Haverfield, Houck, Houston, Jones, Mendoza, Norton, Nosker, Raney, Scott, Taylor, Torres

South Campus Library Locations

Closest to these residence halls: Baker, Bradley, Canfield, Mack, Morrison, Neil, Park-Stradley, Paterson, Residences on 10th, Siebert, Smith-Steeb, William Hall

West Campus Library Locations

 

Closest libraries to Lincoln and Morrill Towers:

 

Check here for Locations and Hours of Operation for all University Libraries.

 

Research Help

Ask Us logo with buckeye leaf in the right corner

Ask Us

Get help with research assignments or ask questions about library resources at Ask Us.  We can help you find articles, organize your research, cite sources and more.

Ask Us in person, by email, phone, chat or use our FAQ.

 

Undergraduate Engagement Librarian

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Beth Black
she/her
Contact:
221B Thompson Library, 1858 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43210
614-688-5428

First Year Experience Specialist