First-Year Information Literacy Program: Unit 1

To access the Sol Plaatje University Library as a registered student, you will need:

• Your Student Card: This is your primary access credential. Ensure you have it with you whenever you visit the library.

Tip: Always keep your student card updated to avoid access issues!

The library provides a 24-Hour Study Space/Ground floor for students, ensuring you can find a quiet place to study 24/7.

Available Spaces:

• 24-Hour Study Area/ Ground floor: Open access for all students.
• Study Rooms: Available for Postgraduate students/staff during library operating hours; book in advance through the library portal.
• Computer Lab: Designated hours for computer access.

Tip: Check the library website for updated information on room availability.

• The Sol Plaatje University Library organizes its print collection using the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) system and a wide range of electronic resources accessible through library databases.

  Understanding DDC:

• The DDC divides knowledge into ten main classes, which are further divided into divisions and sections.
• Familiarize yourself with the basic classes to help locate books effectively:

• Learn how to navigate the library catalogue.

Library Guides:

The SPU Library Guides, a valuable resource designed to support your academic journey. These guides are tailored to help you develop essential skills and providing you with a solid foundation for academic success.

The SPU Library Guides serve as your go-to source for tips, tutorials, and reliable academic resources, supporting your growth and confidence as a First-Year Student.

• Explore additional Library Guides for subject-specific resources and research assistance.

• Familiarize yourself with the library’s borrowing privileges. You'll learn how to check out books and other materials at the circulation desk or via the self-check-out system.

• Discover the library’s operating hours and where to find help if you need assistance.

The library offers a Self-Check System that allows you to borrow and return books without needing assistance from library staff.

How It Works:

• You can find the self-check machines near the library reception on the ground floor, close to the main entrance.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your student card and the book you wish to borrow.
• Check your email for receipt.

Additional Services:

• For specialised assistance, you can consult an Information Librarian at designated consultation times:

Faculty of Education: Sinah Molokisi

Faculty of EMS:  Mashia Shokane

Faculty of Humanities: Gadibolae Moshotloa

Faculty of NAS: Mashia Shokane

Understand the basic rules and guidelines to ensure a productive and respectful environment for all library users.

NO Food and drinks
For hygiene and the safety of library material’s purpose, food consumption is prohibited in the Library. Furthermore, patrons may carry non-alcoholic drinks in spill-proof containers. Should patron spill drinks on library floors and/or furniture for any reason, the patron needs to report this to the nearest service desk for the attention of cleaning services.
Patrons shall refrain from the following behaviours:
• Excessive noise,
• Use of cell phones,
• Listening to music (when on earphones, the next person should not hear what you are listening to),
• Aggression,
• Insolence,
• Not adhering to the Libraries’ Food and Drink Policy
• Inappropriate use of IT resources (whether own or library) to view websites and/or images that are pornographic and/or are infringement to the University’s IT Policy,
• Using the study space as a hostel. (SPU Library and Information Services Rules and Procedures: DOCUMENT REFERENCE: SEN/014a)