MWSU Library Frequently Asked Questions
I have a book checked out and won’t be able to return it before it’s due. What do I do?
During COVID-19 procedures MWSU Library will renew your checked out materials on your behalf. Please ignore any overdue notices. There will be no fines or late fees. If you happen to receive a bill, contact MWSU Library’s Circulation department at libcirc@missouriwestern.edu or 816-271-4360.
Where can I return my books?
Any item you’ve borrowed through the MWSU Library can be returned anytime on campus at our book drop on Downs Drive or our book drop on the north side of the Hearnes building. You can also return items inside the library during open hours.
What are the MWSU Library’s hours?
Please check our library calendar for library hours.
Is the MWSU Library open?
The building is currently closed but the library is open virtually. Please check our library calendar for library hours.
What is my MWSU Library Account login?
To log into your MWSU Library account, enter Your Name and your Unique Campus ID.
Your Unique Campus ID is your G number plus "MW" Example: G12345678MW. Help Document
What is Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?
When the MWSU Library does not have the materials you need (article, book, video, etc.), you can request the material through the MWSU Library’s Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service. The MWSU Library will request the material from another library for you to borrow. You can submit an interlibrary loan request here.
How do I find an article?
To find an article you can search one of our many databases. Our most popular database is Academic Search Complete (ASC). ASC covers multiple disciplines, so is great for any class assignment. View a tutorial
How do I cite my source in MLA, APA, or Chicago (Turabian) citation style?
Consult our Citation Styles library guide for help on various citation styles.
Can I access MWSU library databases and eBooks off campus?
Yes! When accessing electronic resources off campus you will be redirected to a login screen. Enter your Goldlink username and password and you will then have access.
What if I can’t log into the library’s electronic resources?
If you are unable to log into library databases but can still access Goldlink, try changing your password. Instructions for changing your password can be found here. If you’re still having issues, librarians are available to assist you with your troubleshooting needs. You can virtually reach a librarian by chat, email (refdesk@missouriwestern.edu), text (816-398-8542) or in person during open MWSU Library hours. For more information consult our Ask-A-Librarian page.
How can I reach a librarian for assistance?
Librarians are available to assist you with your research needs. You can virtually reach a librarian by chat, email (refdesk@missouriwestern.edu), text (816-398-8542) or in person during open MWSU Library hours. For more information consult our Ask-A-Librarian page.
How can I access eBooks available from MWSU Library?
MWSU Library has over 250,000 eBooks available to our patrons. Visit our eBooks library guide for access to reference, academic, non-fiction, and fiction titles. If off campus you may need your MWSU login credentials to access. If you have any problems, please contact us.
How can I access streaming video from the MWSU Library?
MWSU Library’s Films on Demand product offers educational films from a wide array of reputable producers. If off campus you will need your MWSU login credentials to access. If you have any problems, please contact us.
I’m searching the open web (Google, Bing). How can I tell if MWSU Library has a resource I come across?
Our Library Access browser extension will alert you when a resource you find on the open web is available through the MWSU Library. Click here for more information on Library Access.
How can I connect my Google Scholar search to the MWSU Library?
Google Scholar settings allow you to link your search results to the MWSU Library. Instructions on linking Google Scholar to MWSU Library.
What is Interlibrary Loan (ILL)
When the MWSU Library does not have a book, film, article you need for your research, it will borrow/obtain it for you from another library. Fill out an interlibrary loan form, by logging in with your MWSU Library Account.
What library privileges do alumni have?
MWSU alumni are welcome at the library. Alumni can gain guest access to our computers by registering at the Circulation desk. They can also check out MWSU Library materials by purchasing a discounted community card. Sorry, interlibrary loan privileges are not available to alumni.
The Library is closed, but library help is still available. Library Materials that are currently checked-out have a new due date of April 30th. There will be no fines or late fees. Out of town students can return materials when they return to campus even if that does not occur until August. Students can use My Library Account to see what they have checked out and to renew materials.
The Library has a new tool to get you to the content you need. Library Access is a browser extension that alerts and points users to full-text resources, available through the Library's subscriptions, while browsing the web. MWSU users can download the free browser extension from https://www.leanlibrary.com/download/. Add it to Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or any browser you use. After downloading, you'll be on your way to easier access to online scholarly information. Watch an introductory video and reach out to us if you have questions by emailing refdesk@missouriwestern.edu.