How Do I...? Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search for books?
How do I locate a book by the call number?
Does the library have any digital or eBooks?
Does the library have any audiobooks?
Where do I check out books?
How can I get a book that the library does not own?
Can I check out books in person from other libraries with my EagleCard?

How do I find books?

Go to EWU Library Catalog to search for books held by EWU and by other libraries that you can request. You may search by title, author, subject headings, or you may perform a keyword search.

How do I locate a book by the call number?

The library uses two main call number systems: Library of Congress (LC) for the books, journals, and videos, and Superintendent of Documents (SuDoc) for the federal government documents, which are on the Lower Level.

In the JFK Library book stacks, call numbers that begin with A-Q can be found on the Upper Level. R-Z are on the Lower Level. See How to Read a Call Number for more information.

Does the library have any eBooks?

Yes. Use the EWU Library Catalog, and limit to Format: ebooks. See eBooks at EWU Libraries for more information.

Does the library have any audio books?

Yes. EWU Libraries offers hundreds of titles in downloadable audio format in EBSCOhost. See Find Audiobooks for more information. The JFK Library has hundreds of titles on CD and cassette format. They are located on the Lower Level and may be checked out for 3 weeks with 2 renewals.

Where do I check out materials?

In the JFK Library, check out books at the Circulation Desk, located on the Main Level of the library, next to the entrance. You will need to present your EagleCard. In the Spokane Academic Library, go to the Circulation Desk on the 2nd floor.

How long can I have check something out?

• EWU books circulate for 6 weeks, with 1 renewal. (For faculty, books circulate for 90 days, with 2 renewals.)
• Videos circulate for 1 week, with no renewals. (For faculty, videos circulate for 1 week, with 1 renewal.)
• Books requested from Summit libraries circulate for 6 weeks, with 1 renewal.

For more information, view loan periods on our website here. 

How can I get a book that the library does not own?

1. Summit Request - When you find a record for a book you want in the library catalog and the status is "Check request options - held by Summit libraries" then place a Summit Request (4-8 day delivery). Sign in and follow instructions. An email is sent when your book is ready for pickup. Summit is a partnership of academic libraries in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho.
2. Interlibrary Loan - If you cannot find a book within the library catalog, then make an Interlibrary Loan Request (7-10 day delivery).

Can I check out books in person from other libraries with my EagleCard?

Yes, you can at any Summit library. Summit is a partnership of academic libraries in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Present your EWU ID card at the library you are visiting.