This guide supplements the School of Arts Library Guide and the Fashion Library Guide. It is designed to help you learn more about research and referencing.
This guide is for students and staff on the following courses:
This section covers the essentials - it is all you need to get started.
Library Search lists all books and DVDs available across all four sites as well as all ebooks and online journal and magazine articles. You can also review your loans, and request items not available online from any site to be held for you using Library Search. There is a search box embedded below.
1. Sign-in for the best experience
2. Select 'Books, journals & more' if you are looking for books, otherwise what you want may be lost among the journal articles
3. Remember the easy url: www.westminster.ac.uk/librarysearch
See: Search our collections for more information.
Most modules have online reading lists which link to essential reading for the module, and provide suggestions for further reading. These are a useful starting point for researching assignments. There is a search box embedded below.
The library subscribes to a wide range of electronic sources, which are highlighted throughout this guide. You might want to start using LinkedIn Learning and Box of Broadcasts straight away.
Most content of most databases is listed on Library Search, but sometimes it is preferable to search the 'native' interface. This gives you access to additional content, plus advanced search options. Note that the contents of Box of Broadcasts is not listed on Library Search.
You don't need to sign-in to most online resources on campus, but if if accessing off campus, you should look for a sign-in option such as ‘Where are you from’ or ‘Shibboleth’. Some (e.g. Box of Broadcasts) require registration, or offer additional functionality if you register. More advice about logging in to online resources is available.
Our library spaces are currently closed due to COVID-19. However, we have a 'click and collect' service for books and DVDs that are not available electronically and a postal service for students registered with Disability Learning Support.
You can borrow up to forty items, and can request up to five items at a time to be collected at either Harrow or Marylebone Road. Note that it is not currently possible to return books and requests are limited to items not available online. Requests for books that are available online are being cancelled.
Registration with the library happens automatically within 24 hours of enrolment. Your university ID card will work on the self-service machines in the library. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully. Sign in to Library Search to request items for collection.
We are planning to offer study space to students in particular need in October. Details will be confirmed on the Online delivery of library guide.
Your ID card works with the printers/photocopiers. Use the Print Portal to add credit, and to use WebPrint (equivalent to wireless printing). Note: within the first four weeks of each academic year, you will be credited with £15 print credit (£7.50 for part-time students).
Free access to Office 365, plus other deals on software/hardware can be found on the Managing your money section of the student hub.
The School of Arts Library Guide and the Fashion Library Guide are both packed with information about accessing resources. They are supplemented by the School of Arts Research and Referencing Guide which gives help with basic searching, advanced searching, referencing, using other libraries, and study skills.
You can also book an appointment with the School of Arts librarian for additional help with research and there is a chat service called Ask Us for basic help with accessing resources.
There are also a range of workshops, one-to-one support, and resources on study skills more generally - details on the Academic Skills Library Guide
There is a postal service for book loans for students registered with Disability Learning Support.
