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UCLA Library:
Welcome!
This guide is designed to help you get started using the UCLA Library. There are many resources to explore and that can help you with your academics and research.
It is not subject-specific - you can select other guides that have been created for a class or a discipline. Click on Research Guides at the top of this page to get to the complete list. If you're having trouble figuring out which Research Guide is the right one for you, visit Find the Right Research Guides.
The UCLA Library houses more than 14 million volumes, 40,000 journal subscriptions and more than 1000 databases. Research assistants are available to help you with your research needs, in-person, by telephone, email, and on-line chat. We're here to help!
We understand that university is an amazing and intimidating place and we want you to be seen and heard while you are here.
Virtual Library Tour
Check out a virtual orientation of UCLA Library to learn more about the general services and resources available to you!
This includes information on accessing resources online, technology support (checking out mifis, laptops, etc.), scheduling an online research appointment, fun online events at the library, and more!!
Connecting from Off-Campus: VPN & Proxy Tutorial
The Library's online subscription resources can always be accessed from computers and wireless networks on campus. However, off-campus access is restricted to current UCLA, students, faculty, and staff who have set up their computer using one of the methods below. Click on the other tabs to see how four Bruins got their computers set up and ready to go for remote access!
If you still need help, you can contact the UCLA IT Support Center at (310) 267-4357 or help@it.ucla.edu. They provide 24/7 phone support.
- Virtual Private Networking (VPN)A program you can download and install, or use the built-in version on many computers or mobile devices. VPN software must be logged on manually before you access a restricted site, but works for all programs on your computer. It stays connected until you log off.
- UCLA OnLine Proxy ServerA simple browser setting which will automatically divert you to a UCLA logon page when you first access a restricted site.
VPN on Mac with Natalie
"I chose VPN for my mac because I need to be able to access the full text of articles on different browsers." - Natalie, Environmental ScienceDownload a UCLA VPN
VPN on Windows with Michael
"I chose VPN because I like the security it provides and the control it gives me as a user to manually enable or disable it when I'm browsing online." - Michael, Public AffairsDownload a UCLA VPN
VPN on Chromebook with Nadia
"I chose VPN because it is really simple to use!" - Nadia, Public AffairsDownload a UCLA VPN
Proxy on Mac with Kate
"I chose Proxy because I prefer logging in through a web browser without having to download any software on my computer." - Kate, Ethnic StudiesProxy Server
Research and Help
Working on a research assignment, capstone or thesis project, or personal research project? Need inspiration or ideas? Trying to figure out how to collect, organize, and cite your sources?
We have options for both in-person and online research consultations! You can visit the ground floor of the Powell Library where you can access meet with a research assistant in a drop in basis or for a scheduled in person meeting between 10AM-1pm, M-Th, or on the first floor of the Young Research Library, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12pm-4pm and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11am-4pm. You can also still make online research help appointments via zoom to meet with a student library staff member. Our online 24/7 chat also continues to be available for quick questions.
E-Books at UCLA
- E-books at UCLADid you know that the UCLA Library has access to thousands of e-books available for free? UCLA students, faculty, and staff can read all of these books online from your computer or mobile device. You can even download, highlight, and print many of these e-books.
This guide will help you:
- Find e-books in UC Library Search and HathiTrust
- Access e-books from various mobile devices
- Find links to major e-book collections in various subject areas
Get Ahead!
- Bruin Success with Less StressEverything you need to know about citing sources and avoiding plagiarism in the course of your research.
- Find a Subject SpecialistYou can consult with librarians about your topic. Check this list to find one who works in your subject area and contact them by phone or email.
- Get Help!Ask for help in person at a library service point desk, or by chat, email, or phone.
- How to Read a Call NumberDo you wonder how to read a call number to find a book on the shelf? Check this page out for tips on how to do it.
- Research GuidesLibrarians have created dozens of research guides for specific classes or disciplines that will lead you to resources, both digital and print.