Library

UCR Library Student Guide

The UCR Library provides a full range of services, resources, and assistance for UCR students. We are dedicated to your success!

Ucr students in Orbach

Whether you are new to UCR or a returning student who just needs a refresher, use this page as a quick start guide on how to use the library. 

  • Library 101

    Two Libraries on Campus
    Study, grab books, or get help in the Tomás Rivera Library & the Raymond L. Orbach Science Library.

    Library Website
    Our website is library.ucr.edu. Access online resources here!

    Your R’Card is Your Library Card
    Want to check out a book? All you need is your R’Card! 

    Circulation/Reserves Desk
    Check out books from our Circulation/Reserves Desks! This is also the place where you can check out calculators, markers, headphones, laptop and phone chargers, headphones/headsets, and mini whiteboards. Just remember to bring your R'Card!

    Library Support/IT Support Desk

    • Visit the Library Support-side of the desk to get help with finding books and articles, finding specialized resources, help choosing a research topic, citation help, and more. 
    • Visit the IT Support-side for password and login help, campus Wi-Fi access, VPN issues, Wepa cloud printing assistance, Laptop Kiosk support, and more.

    Large Whiteboards
    We have large rolling whiteboards located throughout both libraries. Feel free to use them for your needs! You can check out dry erase markers from the Circulation/Reserves Desk. 

    Access Resources Off Campus
    You can access library resources like databases, e-journals, and more using the campus VPN. Get started at library.ucr.edu/vpn.

    When in doubt, ASK US!
    Need help using the library, locating, sources, or finding data & statistics? Ask us! We can assist online, in-person, or by text! Visit library.ucr.edu/ask to get help.

  • Spaces and Technology

    Study Spaces
    Each library has open study spaces, a quiet floor, and group study rooms you can reserve. library.ucr.edu/using-the-library/study-spaces 

    Graduate Student Carrels
    The second floor of the Rivera Library has study carrels specifically for graduate students.

    Printing and Scanning
    There are cloud connected Wepa printers and scanners in both libraries. We also have free book scanners available for use. library.ucr.edu/using-the-library/technology-equipment/print-copy-scan

    Laptop Checkout Kisoks
    Checkout a laptop from the Laptop Checkout Kiosk in either library. Check out is up to 24 hours!

    Public Computers
    We have public computers you’re free to use in both libraries.

    Creat’R Lab Makerspace
    The Creat’R Lab is the UCR community’s makerspace. Located in Orbach Library (Room 140), use the Creat’R Lab to 3D print, sew/embroider, use our cricut machine, and more. library.ucr.edu/creatr-lab

    Robotics Lab
    This lab is located in Orbach Library (Room 146) is a workspace that is dedicated to robotics projects. Use equipment like arduino redboards, Raspberry Pi, and more. library.ucr.edu/robotics-lab

    3D XP Lab
    This is a dedicated workspace, in Orbach Library (Room 145), is specifically designed for the development of media and virtual reality (VR) and includes cameras, a green wall for photos and video and advanced tech like an ArcTec Spyder, Leo industrial scanners, and Meta Quest 2 VR headsets. library.ucr.edu/3dxp-lab

    Scholarly Technology and Research (STAR) Lab
    Located in Orbach Library (Room 147), the STAR Lab has four high-performance Windows PC workstations and one Epson Photo Scanner. Software includes Adobe Creative Cloud, ABBYY FineReader, and more. guides.lib.ucr.edu/starlab. 

  • Resources for Research and Study

    Find Books, Journals, and More
    Use the search bar on our website to find books, journals, databases, and more. You can also go directly to UC Library Search: search.library.ucr.edu.

    Get Books We Don’t Have
    See a book on UC Library Search you need, but UCR doesn’t have? Request it through InterLibrary Loan and it will be delivered to the UCR Library just for you. library.ucr.edu/interlibrary-loan.

    Course Reserves (save money on textbooks)
    Your instructor may have items like textbooks or book chapters at the library that you can check out for short periods of time. These items are course reserves. Learn how to search for course reserves at library.ucr.edu/course-reserves.

    Databases and Subject Guides
    You have access to hundreds of databases and journals to help you with your research. You can also check our subject guides to see which databases are recommended for your area of study. library.ucr.edu/databases.

  • Library Departments That Can Help You

    Visit library.ucr.edu/ask to set up a consultation with a librarian!

    Research Services provides services focused on:

    • Evaluating information resources.
    • Geospatial mapping.
    • Tools and techniques for creating .
    • Using innovative media.
    • Advanced research software.
    • Academic poster printing.

    Special Collections & University Archives (SCUA) houses our collection of rare and unique materials available for research and study. SCUA has:

    • Information on local history.
    • Photograph collections.
    • Archival materials.
    • Rare books and manuscripts.
    • The Eaton Collection of Science Fiction & Fantasy.
    • ...and more!

    Visit SCUA Mon. - Fri., from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on the 4th Floor of the Rivera Library.

    Teaching and Learning offers:

    • Digital how-to tutorials for developing library skills (also available for Canvas).
    • Meetings with students for one-on-one research support.
  • Relax With Us

    Finals Week Stress Relief
    During the regular school year, join us in both libraries during Week 10 and Finals Week for stress-relieving activities like crafting, playing with therapy dogs, food giveaways, and more! library.ucr.edu/fwsr.

    Fun Books and Magazines
    Check out popular books from our Leisure Reading Collection in Rivera Library or access popular ebooks and digital magazines for FREE from our digital collection at ucr.overdrive.com.

    Exhibitions
    We hold exhibitions, similar to ones you might find in a museum, regularly. Check out what's currently on display at library.ucr.edu/exhibits-displays.