Frequently Asked Questions

On this page, you will find answers to frequently asked questions about the Libraries and Information Division and the services offered by its libraries.

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Campus Library Access

Where can I find the books, journals, and other resources I need?

To find out whether a specific item is available, which library holds it, or whether it is available in full text, search for it in the Library Catalog.

Where are the libraries located, and how can I contact them?

The Libraries and Information Division includes approximately 20 faculty and departmental libraries located throughout the campus. Information about library locations, opening hours, and contact details is available on the Library Websites.

For your convenience, you can also use the Campus Library Map.

What are the libraries' opening hours?

Opening hours vary by library and may change throughout the academic year. Up-to-date information can be found on each library's website.

Library Services

Who can help me find resources for assignments and research?

The Division's librarians and information specialists assist members of the Bar-Ilan University community in locating books, articles, and electronic resources for study and research. Individual and group instruction sessions are also available.

For assistance, contact the Reference Services Department or your faculty or departmental library.

Can I study in the library?

Yes. All libraries, except the Engineering Library, provide study spaces and computers for public use. Wireless internet access and electrical outlets are also available for users bringing their own laptops.

Do you have group study rooms?

Most libraries provide both collaborative and quiet study areas. Some libraries also offer dedicated group study rooms. 

View the complete list of Learning Spaces.

User Account and Access to Resources

Do I need a library card to borrow books?

No. Members of the Bar-Ilan University community can borrow books by presenting a valid identification card or ID number.

How do I access databases and full-text resources?

Access to the Division's electronic resources is available by your institutional email address and the same password used for other university systems.

For more information, see Accessing Library Resources.

Additional Services

Are computers available for public use?

Yes. All libraries provide computers with access to the university's subscribed databases and basic Microsoft Office applications.

Is Wi-Fi available in the libraries?

Yes. Wireless internet access is available throughout the campus, including all library locations.

Do the libraries provide photocopying, scanning, and printing services?

Some libraries, or facilities located nearby, offer photocopying, scanning, and printing services. These services are provided through a dedicated mobile application and are operated by Tzilomatik.

For more information, see Printing and Copying Services.

Can I print in the library?

Yes. In libraries where printing facilities are available, users can print from library computers or through the designated mobile application.

Can I scan or copy material from microfilm or microfiche?

Yes. The Reading Hall of the Jewish Studies Library provides a microfilm and microfiche scanning workstation. Please bring a USB flash drive, as files cannot be sent by email.

The service is subject to a fee for users who are not members of the Bar-Ilan University community. For details, contact the circulation desk of the Reading Hall or call 03-5317065.

Copyright and Fair Use

May I photocopy or scan material from a book or journal?

In accordance with copyright law and fair use provisions, up to approximately 20% of a publication may be copied or scanned for study and research purposes.

For more information, see Copyright and Fair Use.

May I photocopy or print theses and dissertations held in the libraries?

Theses and dissertations authored by Bar-Ilan University graduates are protected by copyright law. In some cases, viewing, copying, or scanning restrictions may apply. Where no restrictions exist, up to 20% of the work may be copied or scanned.

For more information, see Copyright and Fair Use.

Am I allowed to download or copy an article assigned as required reading for a course?

Yes. Under copyright law, students may download one copy of a required course reading article or a chapter from a book for personal study purposes only and not for commercial use.

For more information, see Copyright and Fair Use.

Research Support

What is Open Access and what are its benefits?

Open Access is a publishing model that provides free and immediate access to scholarly research outputs without charge to readers. Publishing in Open Access increases the visibility of research, broadens its potential audience, and may enhance its academic impact.

For more information, see Open Access.

How can the CRIS system support my research activities?

The CRIS (Current Research Information System) is designed to manage and showcase research outputs, academic activities, research grants, and other scholarly achievements. The system helps researchers maintain an up-to-date academic profile, increase the visibility of their research, and generate reports for evaluation and reporting purposes.

For more information, see CRIS.

Why is it important to evaluate journal quality and impact?

Journal evaluation metrics help researchers compare journals when selecting a publication venue, assess journal performance, identify research trends, and measure scholarly impact. Scholarly impact refers to the contribution and influence of research on academia, society, policy, culture, and the economy.

For more information, see Scientific Research Evaluation Metrics.

for more information see Research Support