1. How do I find books I want to use in the library?

To find books and other print materials, use the library catalogue- Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC). OPAC is a web based database of library materials housed in the UZ Libraries.

2. How do I use the OPAC?

  • Open the Library Catalogue
  • Select the search option you require from the options available: either Author; Title; Subject; Keyword, or Call number.
  • Type your search term(s) in the search box and click Go or press Enter.
  • From the results list, identify and select relevant titles.
  • Take note of the call number and location of the book/s to retrieve items from library shelves.

3. How do I view My Library Account on OPAC?

  • Log on to OPAC
  • Go to “Log in to your account” to log in to your library account
  • The page allows you to view your library record in regards to borrowed items, any over dues and outstanding fines.

 

4. How do I borrow library materials?

  • You need to be a registered user of the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) Library. Search and retrieve an item from the library shelves as guided by OPAC. In the Main Library, check out and check in library materials at the Main Circulation Desk. In other Library branches, check out and check in items at the Circulation Desk in each library building. More information on circulation and membership rules is available on the Client Services  page.

 

5. How do I access e-Resources?

On the library web page, click on the menu e-Resources and a drop down of sub-menus will appear as follows:

  • Campus Access-This link takes you to a list of electronic databases made available through subscription by the UZ. Databases on this page are arranged in alphabetical order from A-Z. No log in procedure is required to access e-Resources on campus.
  • Off Campus Access– You select this option when you are away from the UZ campus. Databases on this page are also arranged in alphabetical order according to database name from A-Z. You need to be registered to RemoteXs for Off Campus access.
  • Open Access e–Resources- This sub-menu will take you to a list of electronic databases that are freely made available for researchers in developing countries. The databases are grouped according to Faculties and listed in alphabetical order.  

 

6. Where do you I find computing facilities in the Library?

There are various options available for computer use in the Main Library.

  • Wireless access is available for connection to the Internet in the Library and around the campus. Instructions on how to connect to UZ wireless are displayed on various points in the Library.
  • Desktop Computers in the Main Hall: The Library provides access to computers for internet and online research in the Library Main Hall. These computers require you to log in, using your University ID number as the username, and barcode number as password.
  • Research Commons Computer Resources: The Research Commons provides space and computer resources for self study and collaborative research using available desktop computers and laptops to access electronic resources. The Research Commons is located on the 2nd floor in the New Wing.
  • Multi-Media Centre Resources: The Multi-media centre provides a number of options. There are six computers with headphones attached to them to allow you to access multi-media content without disturbing others. Three of the computers have web cameras that can be used for video chat/conference. Apart from computers; it provides two television sets equipped with DVD players to allow you to view academic materials on DVD. In addition, one Television set is connected to Digital Satellite Television (DSTV) featuring News, Geography, Documentaries, and History Channels among others.
  • Collaborative Learning Centre: This space is equipped with computer resources and tools for collaborative research and group discussions.
  •  Postgraduate Computer Lab: A library space with computers accessible to Postgraduate students only to facilitate online research and use of applications software.

University Of Zimbabwe Library