UB NORTH LIBRARIES HOW TO GUIDES

To find a book in the University of the Bahamas Library, use their Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) to search by title, author, or subject, then locate the book using the provided call number and classification system within their physical collections. Library Website: UB Libraries - University of The Bahamas 

Step 1: Access the Library Catalog (OPAC)

Visit the University of the Bahamas Library website and go to the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC). This electronic system lets you search the library’s collection by book title, author, or subject. You can also filter results to narrow down your search.

Step 2: Search by Title, Author, or Subject

• If you know the exact title, enter it in the search bar (omit articles like “A” or “The” for better results).
• If you don’t have the title, search by the author’s last name or use relevant keywords related to the book’s subject.

Step 3: Note Essential Book Details

Once you find the desired book in the catalog, take note of:

• Location: Which library branch holds the book (Harry C. Moore Library or UB-North Library).
• Call Number: A unique identifier assigned to the book that tells you where it’s shelved.
• Status: Whether the book is available, checked out, or reserved.

Step 4: Understand the Classification System

The University uses classification systems such as the Library of Congress system or possibly the Dewey Decimal System . These systems organize books by subject areas:

• Library of Congress uses combinations of letters and numbers. The call number will help you find the specific shelf location. Guides and maps are typically available in the library to assist navigation.
• Dewey Decimal uses numerical ranges (e.g., 000–999) to classify topics.

Step 5: Locate the Book on the Shelf

Go to the indicated library location and find the section matching the first part of the call number. Shelves are arranged numerically/alphabetically by call numbers. Match your call number to those on the spine labels of the books until you find the specific book.

Additional Help and Services

• If you cannot locate a book or it is checked out, you can request it via interlibrary loan or document delivery service, available free to students and staff by contacting the Reference Desk or emailing cobill@cob.edu.bs.
• Reference librarians offer consultation and library orientation sessions to assist with searching and research strategies. You can contact them at referencedesk@ub.edu.bs.

The University has two main libraries:

• Harry C. Moore Library and Information Centre (Oakes Field Campus) – houses general and specialized collections, including Bahamian and Caribbean materials.
• UB-North Library (Grand Bahama) – supports education and business program collections.

Following these steps and making use of the available resources will allow you to efficiently find and access books within the University of the Bahamas Library system. Don’t hesitate to ask library staff for assistance during your visit—they are there to help!

Source(s):

1. https://www.ub.edu.bs/academics/ub-libraries/library-services/ 
2. https://www.hookedtobooks.com/how-to-find-books-in-a-library/ 
3. https://www.coursesidekick.com/health-science/20676793 
4. https://www.ub.edu.bs/academics/ub-libraries/library-help/ 
5. https://www.ub.edu.bs/academics/ub-libraries/library-collections/ 
6. https://www.ub.edu.bs/academics/ub-libraries/