Share
Not sure whether to visit the library or bookstore for a textbook, access code, or research resource? Here's what University of the Cumberlands students need to know.
Submitted by Anne Marie McLean, Research, Learning, and Engagement Librarian at University of the Cumberlands.
One of the FAQs we programmed into our library chat service explains the difference between the University of the Cumberlands library and bookstore.
Students, particularly at the beginning of the school year or semester, often come to the library looking for their textbooks or asking how to get access codes for online course materials.
Here's the short answer: If you're looking for a required textbook or course access code, you'll typically need the University of the Cumberlands Bookstore. If you're looking for books, articles, databases, and other resources to help with research and learning, start with the library.
Of course, there's a little more to the story.
What's the Difference Between Library Books and Textbooks?
A required textbook or reading is a specific book or material an instructor assigns for a particular course, which students are expected to purchase or access for class use.
Academic libraries work a little differently. Typically, library collections support broader research and learning across many courses and subjects that correspond to university programs. Library resources are freely available to university students, faculty, and staff.
Where Do Cumberlands Students Find Their Textbooks?
Finding your digital textbooks is easier than you think!
Check your university inbox for an email from coursematerials [at] email.bncollege.com (coursematerials[at]email[dot]bncollege[dot]com). Follow the instructions in the email, and you'll be able to submit your order.
If you cannot locate the original email, you can also use the Cumberlands textbook ordering link.
If you're interested in textbook rentals on campus, check out the Cumberlands Bookstore rental FAQs.
Still have questions about textbooks or access codes? Contact the University of the Cumberlands Bookstore.
Email: bookstore [at] ucumberlands.edu (bookstore[at]ucumberlands[dot]edu)
Phone: 606-539-4354
Does the Cumberlands Library Have Textbooks?
Yes — a few physical books on reserve in the Cumberlands library do exist!
For example, you can find the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM-5, at the UC Main Library Reserves, RC455.2.C4 D536 2013. View the book in UC Search.
You'll notice in UC Search that two copies of this item are listed as in place but not loanable.
What does that mean?
You can come to the Main Library Desk on Level 1, request the book, and use it in the library. However, you cannot check it out to your account and take it back to your dorm room.
Policies like these help ensure that all students have access to the resource.
What Other Resources Are Available Through the Cumberlands Library?
The library offers much more than books.
Start with UC Search, where you'll find a variety of resources to support your research.
These include subject databases with access to resources such as:
- Academic journals and peer-reviewed articles
- Conference proceedings
- Dissertations
- Newspapers
- Datasets
- Reference works
- Reports
- Books and other research materials
The library even has a popular reading section!
Cumberlands students can also benefit from a Whitley County Public Library card with their UC student ID, providing access to additional free resources like Hoopla and Libby.
Can I Use Interlibrary Loan for Textbooks?
No. Required textbooks cannot be requested through Interlibrary Loan (ILL).
Textbooks are usually in high demand and tied to specific courses, and lending them would often violate copyright and licensing rules. In short, libraries aren't permitted to borrow or share required textbooks through ILL.
Interlibrary Loan is instead intended to expand access to eligible books, articles, and other research materials that aren't already available through the university's library collections.
What If I Need a Textbook From a Previous Course?
If you rented your textbook through the Cumberlands Bookstore, you can usually extend your rental or buy the book to keep it.
Log in to your Cumberlands Bookstore account and look for the options to "Extend" or "Buy" your rental.
For digital textbooks, some publishers also allow you to purchase permanent access directly through your account.
Library or Bookstore? Here's the Easy Way to Remember
Need a required textbook or course access code? Start with the University of the Cumberlands Bookstore.
Need books, articles, databases, or other resources for research and learning? Start with the Cumberlands library.
And if you aren't sure which one you need, just ask! Library and bookstore staff can help point you in the right direction.
Visit the University of the Cumberlands Bookstore
Bookstore Email: ucbarnesandnoble [at] ucumberlands.edu (ucbarnesandnoble[at]ucumberlands[dot]edu)
Share