Need sources for your literature review? Struggling to find sources for your postgraduate assignment?
The Library can assist with a literature search, which is a systematic and comprehensive search for published, academic material on your specific subject/topic. How do you request one? Simply go to Request a literature search .The earlier you send your request the sooner we can assist!
If you are experiencing issues in completing the form, please use this link.
All registered Unisa students and staff may borrow and request library material, subject to the Library’s lending regulations.
Use the Library Catalogue to:
You do not have to go to the Library to take out books. Material may also be requested online. More information on how to request material from the Library
Some library items may not be borrowed. However, such items may be consulted in the Library.
Examples of these items include:
Photocopies of publications that may not be borrowed may be obtained on request and in keeping with the limits laid down by South African copyright law.
To find out if the Library has a particular book in its collection, start with an author or title search in the Library Catalogue.
If the Catalogue shows that we have the book, you can request the book by clicking on the request button and the book will be posted to you.
If you look up the book in the Catalogue while you are in the Library, you will need to take note of the STATUS of the book - is it out on loan or is it available for loan? If the book is available, then you will need to note the SHELF NO and seek the book on the shelf according to its shelf number.
If you cannot find the book in the Library Catalogue, and you are eligible for interlibrary loan service (ILL) then you could request the book on ILL or suggest that the Library purchase a copy. More on interlibrary loans.
It is always helpful to attend Library training to enhance your Library skills.
There are a number of reasons why you would not find a book on the shelf. It is important to ask for assistance from Library staff.
Some of the reasons why you might not find a book on the shelf include the following:
If the requested item is available in the Library, it may take up to 3 weeks to arrive depending on the method of dispatch that is used. More information about the request process.
There are a number of ways to borrow library material. As an open distance learning library, the Unisa Library accommodates both the student who can visit the Library in person and the student who cannot come to the Library to borrow books.
It is always helpful to attend a hands-on library training session to acquire basic library skills.
Students are expected to read prescribed material in order to master the subject matter of their courses.
Only limited stocks of prescribed books are available in Unisa.libraries, therefore students are required to purchase their own copies of prescribed books from the official booksellers. No reservations are made for prescribed books that are already out on loan.
Students who have problems obtaining specific prescribed books from the booksellers should contact vospresc@unisa.ac.za
Inform the Unisa administration as soon as possible. You can change your personal information on myUnisa.
Yes, interlibrary loan requests can be mailed to the following dedicated mailbox: libr-ill@unisa.ac.za.
This service is limited to Unisa staff and registered Master's and Doctoral students.