The University of St. Thomas

FAQ E-Reserves

Frequently Asked Questions about Reserves

 

Course Reserves login screen   

How do I login?

When you click the link for a particular reading in your search results, a login box will appear: use your regular UST username and password (same as for email or Blackboard).   If unable to get in, first verify that your username/password are correct, then try entering UST\  before your username:

 

If for any reason you cannot login, please call the IRT Help Desk 651-962-6230.

 

 

 

   

How can I view and print materials?

E-reserves primarily uses Adobe Acrobat PDF files. Most computers have Acrobat pre-installed. If not, you can get a free copy from Adobe. To print the item, use the print icon button on the Acrobat toolbar, not your web browser's print button.

A few documents may be in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint or other formats.  In these cases, you will need to save the file to your computer and run the file in the appropriate program. Microsoft provides free viewers if you don't happen to have one of these programs.

   

Why do files take so long to download?

The download time of an article depends on the file size, your Internet connection speed, and your computer. If you are using a modem and phone line, it will take more time than if you are using a cable modem or DSL connection.  You may want to consider printing these and other course materials on campus. 

 

   

My Internet connection uses a firewall. Can I use e-reserves?

In rare cases, library patrons accessing the Internet behind their company's firewall may not be able to access e-reserve items, due to that company's network security policy. DSL and cable modem users may experience the same problem in rare cases.  Contact your network administrator for help.

 

   My Safari browser won't let me view a reading. Now what?

For Mac users in the Safari browser, once you have located a reserve reading and click on a file to access it, occasionally the browser will prevent the file from loading.  Try turning off the browser's popup blocker by selecting the Safari link, then unchecking the "Block Popup Windows" entry.

 

   

I am teaching a course, how do I add a reading to e-reserves?

See our "How Can I Link to My Readings?" page for a decision tree designed to illustrate your options. Your library Reserves Coordinator can assist you in setting up access to existing e-versions (from an online database or other source) and in making a digital scanned version of print versions you provide. The Reserve Procedures for Faculty page has the forms faculty need to fill out to place items (print or electronic) on reserve.

 

   

How long can materials stay on Reserve?

Reserve materials are ordinarily removed at the end of the semester, so students may not be able to access them beyond that date. Please make arrangements with your Reserves Coordinator if you plan to use the materials again.