Reference Services

We expect that everyone will have questions about using the library. Visit with the Reference Desk staff or call (562) 903-4838 for help with research or using any of our resources. The Reference Desk is located just inside the entrance.

Reference librarians can help you...

  • locate a particular resource
  • search a library catalog or database
  • find information on your topic
  • develop a research strategy for your paper or project
  • save time!

Need immediate help?

Ask a Librarian

Locating and Requesting Materials

Library Catalog

The Library Catalog allows you to search for materials owned by Biola Library as well as view your Library Account, set up your PIN, place holds, renew your items and make suggestions. Biola Library uses both Dewey Decimal (pre-1989 items) and Library of Congress (post-1988 items) systems. When searching the Library Catalog, click on the title of the item and note the Location and Call No. before looking on the shelves.

Link+ Catalog

LINK+ is an online service that allows you to borrow books (not media or periodicals) unavailable at the Biola Library. Fines for overdue LINK+ books are $1 per day, per item. The replacement cost for a lost/damaged LINK+ book is $115. LINK+ items usually arrive within two days.

Interlibrary Loan

If you can't find what you need using the Library Catalog or LINK+, you may borrow books, media or journal articles from libraries worldwide through our ILL service. Submit an online request or fill out a form at the Reference Desk. Fines for overdue ILL books are $1 per day, per item. The replacement cost for a lost/damaged item may vary. Plan ahead — ILL items may take up to two weeks to reach us through the U.S. mail system.

Periodicals

To find out if the library has a particular periodical in print or online (magazine, journal, newspaper, etc.), click on the Library Periodicals link from the library website. Print periodicals are alphabetically arranged by title in the Middle Level Reading Room (current issues) and in the Bound Periodicals section on the Lower Level (older issues). Microforms are in the Media section on the Middle Level. If you do not have a specific periodical in mind, but need articles on your subject, use the Library Databases link from the library website.

Free Borrowing Exchange

Biola Library has reciprocal agreements with many local colleges, universities and seminaries so you may also use other libraries to do research. See the Reference Desk for details.