Distance Education Library Guide  

• UTD Catalog
• Electronic Databases
• Electronic Course Reserves
• Electronic Books
• Electronic Journals
• Government Documents
• Useful Web Sites These are websites that include online dictionaries, citation manuals, encyclopedias, etc.
• RefWorks – a citation manager.

• Ask a Librarian (email service) Questions are usually answered the same business day
• IM a UTD Librarian
• UT System Chat Reference Service Available:
  • M-Th Noon until Midnight
  • Friday Noon until 4 pm
  • Sunday 6pm until Midnight
• Contact an individual librarian by email or phone
• Call the Reference Desk at 972-883-2643
• Contact the librarian for DistanceLearning (carol.oshel@utdallas.edu or 972-883-2627)

 How do I use the library's resources?
You will need your Net ID and password to access all of the library’s electronic resources (reserves, journal articles, ebooks, interlibrary loan, etc) from off campus.

How do I get my Net ID and password?
Go to Net ID User Instructions and follow the instructions.

How can I get books and paper articles?
Use Interlibrary Loan Services to get UTD paper materials delivered to you (distance learners only). Contact Kristen Palmiere for assistance in obtaining materials and options for document delivery.

Distance Learners are UTD students who live outside the boundaries of Collin, Dallas, Denton, Rockwall, or Tarrant counties.

What if I am an online student, but I live in one of the counties listed above?
You would not be classified as a Distance Learner. You would still be able to access the electronic resources from off campus using your UTD-ID, but you would have to come on campus to use the print resources. You would then need a Comet Card, which you can get at the Info Depot in the Student Union on campus.

What is a Comet Card?
It is your UTD ID card and is also your UTD library card.

How do I find my UTD-ID? 
It is on your UTD Comet Card.
Applicants and Newly Admitted Students:
It is normally sent in your acknowledgment email. If you need help, contact the Admissions Office.
Current Students:
UTD-ID will be on your UTD Comet Card. Contact the Office of the Registrar for help.

Will I need a Comet Card?
Only if you will be on campus and wish to use the library resources or if you need an ID that shows that you are a student at UTD. You may obtain your Comet Card at the Info Depot in the Student Union, or send an email to the Comet Card Office requesting an ID.

• Email must include: 

1. Complete Student name
2. Return mailing address (where to mail card)
3. A .JPG “head shot” photo file attached to the email
4. Fax a copy of Driver’s License (copy must be enlarged so we can see the picture on it). The fax is 972-883-6144

Can I use my Comet Card to check out from other libraries in my Area?
Yes. You can Apply for A Texshare Card which will allow you to borrow from another participating Texas library. It is only valid in Texas and must be accompanied by your Comet Card.

Can I get materials that aren’t owned by UTD?
Yes, all UTD students may use the Interlibrary Loan Service to obtain materials from another library. (we will find which library to borrow from) Contact Kristen Palmiere if you need help using Interlibrary Loan.

How can I get help with citations and bibliographies?
From the Useful Websites select “Citations and Style Manuals”. This is a collection of websites that explain how to use the various style manuals. Also, RefWorks (a citation manager) will help with citations and bibliographies. If you need help setting up your RefWorks account, or using RefWorks you may email or call Carol Oshel, carol.oshel@utdallas.edu, 972-883-2627.

What if I need more help?
Use the Help pages and tutorials provided by the databases. The librarians have also made some tutorials and handouts.