If the book you are looking for is not on the shelf where it belongs, there are a number of other things you can do to find it:
Check Availability of the item in HOLLIS
First, check the HOLLIS record. The HOLLIS record will indicate:
| • | What other Harvard Libraries have the book. |
| • | How many copies each library owns and if they are checked out. (You may wish to recall a copy if it is checked out. Items at the Harvard Depository can be ordered and are delivered here usually within 24 hours) |
| • | The exact title and dimensions of the book. Most Loeb Library books have the title printed on the spine. The dimensions (height and number of pages) will give you an idea of the book's approximate size. Knowing these can be very useful in spotting one book amongst dozens). |
| • | You may want to write down the BARCODE number of a copy of the book that is not checked out. (The Circulation staff can use this number to find additional information including when the item was last checked in, which can indicate if the item is in the process of being reshelved.) |
Check the Reshelving Area
If an item is listed as "Not checked out", and is not on the correct shelf, the most likely place to find it is in the Reshelving Area (aisle 45 in the stacks, and the adjacent library trucks). This is where books are sorted prior to being reshelved. The books on the shelves are sorted in rough call number order, the truck contain books that have been returned or gathered up from the tables in the library usually within the last 24 hours.
Request that the Book be Traced
If the book is "Not checked out" and cannot be found on the shelves or in the reshelving area, you can go to the circulation desk and put a Trace Request on the item. If you have the barcode number of the book (this number appears on the right side of the Availability screen in HOLLIS and begins "32044..."), this will help the Circulation staff quickly find the record for the item you want. Circulation staff will search for the book over the course of ten days. When the book is found, it will be set aside for you at the Circulation desk and an e-mail is sent to you. If the book cannot be located, you will receive an e-mail usually after about ten days.
Check Availability at MIT
Using the Barton Catalog. We have a reciprocal borrowing agreement with MIT which allows you to borrow books from the MIT Libraries (ask for an application form at the Loeb Library circulation desk).
Request an Interlibrary Loan
If we cannot find or recall a copy available at Harvard, we may be able to get the book or a photocopy of an article through Interlibrary Loan.