CGPS Research FAQ

How do I Get started with my research?

Visit our Research Tools page to find numerous helpful resources all in one place. Try selecting a subject area using the "research by subject" drop down menu or select a database from our Databases A-Z. For research help, you may schedule a research session with Paul Boger, Reference Librarian, at pboger@umw.edu or 540-286-8066. You may also stop by the Library for assistance or contact us at cgpslib@umw.edu or 540-286-8025.

How do I Get better search results?

Save time and frustration by using these Quick Search Tips to narrow your search results. These strategies will help you find more relevant results and will work with most databases and internet search engines.

how do i find eric documents that are not available online?

The CGPS Stafford Library owns selected ERIC documents on microfiche from 1966-1990 and a complete set from 1991-2003. Printing of microfiche articles at the CGPS Stafford Library is free. You may also create an Interlibrary Loan (ILL) request for documents not owned by the UMW Libraries by using ILLIAD.

how do i find the stacks?

When a book in the Libraries' catalog has a location of "Stacks," it is available in Simpson Library on the Fredericksburg campus. To request a book from the Simpson Library, place your request online via ILLIAD (for more information, please see Request a Book/Article or the ILLIAD/Interlibrary Loan (ILL) FAQ). A book located at the CGPS Stafford Library will have a location of "Stafford Campus" or "Stafford Stacks". Please ask at the Circulation Desk if you need assistance in locating a book or periodical.

How do I request books or Articles from Simpson Library?

To request a book or article from the Simpson Library, place your request online via ILLIAD (for more information, please see Request a Book/Article or the ILLIAD/Interlibrary Loan (ILL) FAQ). ILLIAD can also be used to place InterLibrary Loan (ILL) requests for materials not owned by UMW Libraries. If you need assistance placing requests, please contact the CGPS Library Staff at cgpslib@umw.edu or 540-286-8025.

Please note that the button in the UMW Libraries' Catalog does not allow you to place a request for books held at Simpson Library. A recall may only be placed on material that is currently checked-out from the UMW Libraries by another patron, with the exception of Course Reserve materials.  A recall will shorten the current borrower’s loan period to 21 days and will generate a notice informing the borrower of the revised due date.

How do I request books or Articles that UMW Libraries doesn't own?

To request a book or article that UMW Libraries does not own, place your request online via ILLIAD (for more information, please see Request a Book/Article or the ILLIAD/Interlibrary Loan (ILL) FAQ). ILLIAD can also be used to place Document Delivery requests for books or articles from the Simpson Library. If you need assistance placing requests, please contact the CGPS Library Staff at cgpslib@umw.edu or 540-286-8025.