What if the book you need for your paper is already signed out?

There are 2 alternatives:

1. Talk to a Reference librarian. Since the librarian knows the collection well, and has helped many other students with similar assignments, she may be able to suggest alternative ways to search for information, or other information sources.
2. Put the book on hold. This means that when the book is returned, you are guaranteed to be the next person to get it. When a hold is placed on a book, the person who has it out is notified by email, and must return it in 7 days.

A study hint: Start your research early! Not only will this give you a better selection when looking for books, it will also give you the flexibility to adjust your search strategy, talk to your instructor or consult with a librarian. Leaving your research to the last minute means that you have fewer options.

Note: Placing a hold applies to books and other materials owned by the UM Libraries. It's different from the Document Delivery service, which locates and delivers books and journals not owned by UM Libraries. The two services aren't interchangeable.

You can practice placing a hold with the following tutorial:

Key Resources
How Place a Hold
Reference Desks
Chat with a Librarian