The Library Help Desk
The library’s primary service point for assistance, borrowing, pickups, and informationThe Library Help Desk, located directly in front of the library’s entrance, is the Michael Schwartz Library’s primary service point for assistance and information.
We’re here whenever the building is open, so stop by or call (216) 687-2479.
What the Help Desk can help with
The Help Desk supports many of the library services students and faculty use most often, including borrowing and returning materials, textbook checkout, room keys, equipment-related questions, OhioLINK and Interlibrary Loan pickups, and general library assistance.
If you are not sure where to start, the Help Desk is the best first stop. Staff can answer questions directly or connect you with the right library department or specialist.
Research assistance
Librarians are partners in teaching and research, and they are happy to help with class assignments, research topics, finding books and articles, using databases, and navigating library resources.
Research help is available on the first floor and online. You can drop in, call (216) 687-5300, text (216) 820-9691, use the chat service, try the email form, or visit Ask Your Personal Librarian to make an appointment.
Borrow, renew, and return books & textbooks
Regular circulating materials may be checked out, renewed, and returned at the Library Help Desk using your Viking Card.
You can learn more about loan periods and policies on the Borrowing Books & Other Materials page.
The Print Textbook Center is located behind the Help Desk. Any CSU student with a valid Viking Card may borrow textbooks there for a two-hour loan at no cost.
Library items can be renewed in person, by phone at (216) 687-2479, or online through My Library Account. Materials may be returned directly to the Help Desk or to the after-hours book drop outside the front entrance to Rhodes Tower.
Borrow keys, chargers, headphones, markers, and more
In addition to books, the Help Desk loans room keys and everyday-use items that support study, group work, and library use.
You may borrow keys to the Virginia McFrederick Study Center, Group Project Rooms, Quiet Study Rooms, and rooms and spaces on the 3rd floor.
The Help Desk also lends charging cables and adapters for phones and devices, headphones, dry erase markers, and other useful items. See Check It Out: More than Books for more information.
Additional services
Help Desk staff can also assist with other day-to-day library needs, including renting a library locker, sending a fax, resolving an overdue fine, and starting a missing materials search.
If you need a service that is handled elsewhere in the building, staff can help direct you to the right location or department.
Pick up OhioLINK & Interlibrary Loan materials
OhioLINK and Interlibrary Loan materials may be picked up at the Library Help Desk.
OhioLINK materials may be renewed up to six times as long as no one has placed a hold on the item. Interlibrary Loan renewals vary by lender. See Borrowing Books & Other Materials for additional details.
For added convenience, public quick-look workstations, a printer, and a KIC scanner are also available near the Help Desk.