Seven Major Steps to Find an Online Library (part 2)

Step 4. Check out your university resources. If your university does not have a digital library, it can point you to some free online libraries that you can make use of. Some universities cooperate with massive online libraries that provide a paid service, in addition to free online libraries. The universities usually pay for this service, allowing their students to use for free. Typically, these libraries concentrate on providing digital versions of academic journals and other periodicals. They occasionally provide digital books as well.

Even if you are not studying at the university, a university website still can direct you to a helpful resource. Any free resources in the library will generally be available to the public, while paid services are only available for free for students with valid student IDs.

Step 5. Do a wide search on the Internet. If you want to find an online library, one of the fastest and simplest ways to do a search is to use your favorite Internet search engine with a good set of basic search terms such as “online libraries”, “list of online library services”, “free online libraries”, or “free list of online libraries.” Although a library typically connotes the idea of a free lending service, some websites offering online library services first require users to sign up for a paid membership. That is still fine if a small fee does not bother you; however, free digital libraries often have comparable collections.

Step 6. Consult websites that recommend or review online library lists. When searching for online libraries, you may come across a variety of websites that provide a list or directory of online libraries. These lists provide you with lists and informative explanation of what makes a certain library’s services stand out among all.

Step 7. Read the terms of services clearly. Before borrowing from any online library, read to understand clearly the rules and conditions of borrowing. Some online libraries are free while others require you to pay a small fee for partial or full access. Some libraries allow you to keep the books you borrow forever, while others set a limit. Some libraries place a limit on how many books can be checked out at once or during one day.