Where do I look for articles on my topic?

Start by searching for your topic in a research database. You can use a general database like Expanded Academic Index, or choose a database that is geared toward a particular subject. For help in selecting the best database, use Databases by Subject. If you know the name of the database you need, select it from the Databases by Title page.

Some databases give you citations to articles while others include an abtract (summary) or the entire article online. If the article is not online, check the title of the journal in LIBROS (Online Catalog) to see if it is available in print or electronically from the Skeen Library. If the article is not available from the Skeen Library, find out how to get articles that NMT does not own.

Is there off-campus access to the research databases and electronic journals?

To access electronic resources off-campus, you must be a current NMT student, professor or staff member with a TCC (Tech Computer Center) account. Click here to read about the two methods of remote access to electronic resources

How can I learn about citing sources in my paper?

This Citing Sources guide provides links with information on citing print sources, full-text articles from online databases, and Web pages. Books available in the Skeen Library reference collection are also included. Talk to your professor about which kind of citation style you should use.

How do I find books in the Skeen Library?

Use LIBROS (Online Catalog), which includes information on books, DVDs, CDs and other materials that are owned by the Skeen Library. Do NOT use the catalog to search for articles in journals or newspapers. Instead, use Research Databases to search for specific articles.

Once you find the item you need in LIBROS, check the location information and copy down the call number of the item. If the Status says " DUE 12-15-05", this means that the item is already checked out. You can place a HOLD on the item by going to the Circulation Desk.

To find further information about books that the Skeen Library does not own, check WorldCat or Books in Print.

How can I find out if the Skeen Library has a certain journal?

Use LIBROS (Online Catalog) to search for a journal. Choose a Journal Title search and then type in the name of the journal. Once you find the item you need in LIBROS, check to see which volumes are available under LIB. HAS. If the journal is available electronically, there will be a box labelled: Online Resource(s) - Click Here.

Most print journals are on the Garden Level (lower level of the library). Current issues of these journals are located on the upright shelves near the photocopiers. Be sure to lift the shelves to see more issues. The older journal volumes are shelved alphabetically on the regular shelves and many of them are bound like a book. Current issues of popular journals and magazines are also on the Garden Level in the popular reading area.

Can I renew library materials online?

Library users can renew their books online in LIBROS. Type in the library barcode number on your NMT ID in the "Patron ID" box.

How do I see a list of books I have checked out?

You can view a list of checked-out items in LIBROS. Type in the library barcode number on your NMT ID in the "Patron ID" box.

I got an overdue notice, what does it mean?

The Fines Policy web page explains the charges for different types of items. You can also call the library, at 575-835-6600, and speak with Johnathan Ammons who works in Circulation and can help you with any questions or problems.

How do I find a book or journal article that the library does not own?

You can use our ILL (Interlibrary Loan) service to request books, articles, chapters, theses and dissertations that the Skeen Library does not own. Click on ILLiad to begin your request. This service is available for NMT students, faculty, and staff only.
Distance Education students click here to learn about book and article delivery services.

Can I use other New Mexico libraries?

NMT students, faculty or staff who wish to have borrowing privileges at another New Mexico academic library, need to bring their NMT ID to the NMT library and ask for a Passport at the circulation desk before they go. This certificate will provide you with borrowing privileges at that library for the current semester. To make arrangements for the return of Passport books, contact Interlibrary Loan at 835-5173. This service is available for NMT students, faculty, and staff only.
Distance Education Students can also obtain a Passport to a nearby New Mexico academic library.

Can I reserve a Skeen Library room for a meeting?

The Tripp Room (holds 50 people) and two study rooms (holding 8-12 people) are available for reservation and use by groups. Call 835-5614 for more information or stop by the Circulation Desk.
Library 208 is a computer lab that can be reserved by NMT faculty and staff for special classes.