What is the Library Catalogue (OPAC)?
Is it accessible only from the Library?
What information does it give?
How do I use the OPAC Catalogue?
I have found a book on the catalogue but it’s on loan.  How do I get hold of it?
How many books can I borrow and for how long?
My books are overdue.  How much will it cost me?
I have a particularly difficult assignment and am at a low in identifying source material.  Where should I start?

What is the Library Catalogue (OPAC)?

It is a directory of most of the materials that the University of Malta Library stocks ranging from books and journals to newspapers and CDs.

Is it accessible only from the Library?

No, it can be freely searched from any Internet connection worldwide via this link: http://www.um.edu.mt/library/

What information does it give?

•    The shelf location of the item (books, journals, newspapers, CDs)
•    The length of time you can borrow it for or whether it is non-circulating
•    Whether it is currently available or if not the due date should you place a request for it
•    The barcode which is the unique identity of the book and which is important if you want to reserve the book
•    Details of when and where the book was published

How do I use the OPAC Catalogue?

The University Library has set up instructions next to each workstation inside the library.  You can also click here for more detailed instructions.

I have found a book on the catalogue but it’s on loan.  How do I get hold of it?

It is possible to reserve the book by taking note of the barcode and asking staff at the Circulation Desk to sign up the book in your name.  Once the book is reserved, the system generates a message informing the current borrower that he/she has to return the book, one week from notification.

How many books can I borrow and for how long?

1.    A member of the University’s academic staff: 30 books
2.    A research student of the University reading for a higher degree: 10 books
3.    Support staff:  6 books
4.    All other Library members: 6 books

The loan period for each book is:

•    3 months for Category  (1), (2) and (3)
•    3 weeks for Category (4):

The Short Loan applies to all categories.

See Regulations for further details.

My books are overdue.  How much will it cost me?

•    Twenty Euro cents (€0.20) per day on overdues for 3-week book loans and 3-month book loans
•    Fifty Euro cents (€0.50) per day on recalled books
•    Fifteen Euro cents (€0.15) per hour for short-loan books

See Regulations for further details.

I have a particularly difficult assignment and am at a low in identifying source material. Where should I start?

Ask for help at the Reference Reading Room.