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.
Didn't find what you were looking for?
Contact us and we'll be happy to assist you
Campus Libraries
- Where is the library located?
The Libraries and Information Division includes approximately 20 faculty and departmental libraries across campus. Information about library locations, opening hours, and contact details is available on the libraries websites.
For your convenience, you may also use the campus libraries map.
- How can I contact the library?
The Libraries and Information Division includes approximately 20 faculty and departmental libraries across campus. Information about library locations, opening hours, and contact details is available on the libraries websites.
- What are the library's opening hours?
Opening hours vary by library and according to the academic calendar. Up-to-date information is available on the website of each library.
- Where can I find books, journals, and other resources?
To check whether a specific item is available in the libraries, determine which library holds it, or find out whether it is available in full text, search the library catalog.
Library Services
- Who can help me locate materials for assignments and research?
Our librarians and information specialists assist with locating books, articles, and electronic resources for study and research purposes. In addition, you may schedule individual or group reference sessions.
For more information, contact the Reference Services or your faculty or departmental library.
- How do I access databases and full-text resources?
Access to electronic resources is provided באמצעות your institutional email address and university password.
For more information, see How to Access Electronic Resources.
- How do I know which database to search?
For an initial search, you can use one of our two discovery tools, Primo and EDS, which search multiple databases simultaneously. For more in-depth research, you can select a specialized database from our subject-specific database list.
- Are reference sessions offered, and when?
Some libraries offer regularly scheduled group reference sessions, and group instruction can also be arranged upon request. Individual reference sessions are available as well.
Please contact our Reference Services team or your departmental or faculty library.
- What types of instruction and guidance services are available?
Our stuff is here to support your research. If you are having difficulty finding materials in your field, have located an article but cannot access it, or need assistance with your bibliographic references, you are welcome to contact us through any convenient channel or consult your departmental or faculty library.
- What topics are covered in reference sessions?
Reference sessions cover information searching, effective use of databases, bibliography management software, and the use of artificial intelligence tools.
- In which areas can researchers receive consultation?
The Libraries and Information Division provides research support in the following areas:
- Journal quality assessment
- Open access publishing agreements
- Identifying predatory journals
- Book acquisitions
- CRIS consultation
- and more
For more information, see Research Support.
- Can I study in the libraries?
Yes. All libraries, except the Engineering Library, provide study seating. Public computers are available with access to the University's licensed databases and basic Microsoft Office applications. Wireless internet access and electrical outlets for laptops are also available.
- Are group study rooms available?
Most libraries offer collaborative learning areas alongside quiet study spaces. Some libraries also provide dedicated group study rooms.
For the full list see Learning Spaces for Groups in the Campus Libraries.
- The library is closed. Where can I return borrowed items?
A book return box is located at the entrance of each library, where borrowed items may be returned when the library is closed.
- Do I need a library card to borrow books?
No. Members of the Bar-Ilan University community may borrow books by presenting an identification card or ID number.
- What happens if an item is overdue, or if I would like to extend my loan period?
All information about borrowing policies and procedures is available on the our website.
- Are services available to visitors who are not affiliated with the University?
Visitors from outside the University are welcome to enter the libraries without restriction. However, borrowing privileges, database access, and research consultation services are available only to Bar-Ilan University students and staff members.
- Is wireless internet available?
Yes. Wireless internet access is available throughout the campus, including all libraries.
- Are there printers and photocopying machines in the library?
Some libraries, or areas adjacent to them, provide printing, scanning, and photocopying facilities. These services operate through a mobile application and are managed by the company Tzilumatik.
For more information see Photocopying and Printing Services.
- Can I borrow an electronic dictionary?
Yes. Electronic dictionaries are available for one-day loans.
- Does the library provide mobile phone chargers?
Yes. Libraries offer chargers for both Type-C devices and iPhones.
- I forgot my headphones at home. Can I get a pair?
Headphones can be purchased in the libraries for 15₪. Payment is made by credit card through our online payment system.
- What services are available in the libraries besides study and research?
The Life Sciences Library includes a virtual reality room for study and research purposes. The Law, Education, and Jewish Studies libraries offer exercise bikes with study desks. Most libraries also provide relaxation areas with beanbags for users' convenience. And during the winter, you can borrow umbrellas from one library and return them to another.
In addition, the Libraries and Information Division hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including book launches by University researchers, exhibitions, and other activities.
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.
