library@lsu.ac.zw

Library Services

Who can use the library

Only bonafide staff and students in possession of I.Ds registered at Lupane State University are entitled to borrow library materials. Students and staff from other institutions are also allowed to have access to the library material upon payment of a stipulated fee for research purposes.

Circulation of library material

Books from the ordinary loan shelf and short-term loan shelf can be borrowed. Reserve section books can be borrowed only for three hours by students and academic staff can use them overnight.

Under - Graduate

Ordinary Loan Books: 3 books Issue period of 14 Days
Short Loan Books : 1 book Issue period of 3 Day
Reserved Books : 1book Issue period of 3 Hours

Post - Graduate

Ordinary Loan Books: 3 books Issue period of 21 Days
Short Loan Books : 1 book Issue period of 5 Day
Reserved Books : 1 book Issue period of 3 Hours

Academic Staff

Ordinary Loan Books: 3 books Issue period of 30 Days
Short Loan Books : 2 books Issue period of 5 Day
Reserved Books : 1 book Issue period of 24 Hours

Non Academic Staff

Ordinary Loan Books: 2 books Issue period of 14 Days
Short Loan Books : 1 book Issue period of 3 Day
Reserved Books : 1 book Issue period of 3 Hours

Additionally, the LSU Library offers the following services

Circulation Services

The Circulation desk is a key service point in the library. Functions include borrowing and returning books, recalling materials, making reservations, and collecting fines and other charges as stated in the library policy.

Reference Services

The reference desk plays a crucial role in helping users navigate the library's collections and services and providing personalised assistance and expertise to support their information and research needs.

Digital literacy skills training

LSU Library plays a critical role in promoting digital literacy. Digital literacy is the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information. LSU Library teaches and provides access to digital resources, reference tools, effective use of artificial intelligence technology training, and programs that help students and staff develop the skills they need to navigate the digital world effectively and ethically. Furthermore, the LSU library serves as a safe and welcoming space for people to explore and experiment with technology, thereby promoting digital citizenship and access to information.

Reading and study spaces

The welcoming environment and helpful librarians give the LSU Library a pleasant, and soothing ambiance. The Library has designated reading spaces that are conducive to study, research, and intellectual engagement. They are valuable resources within the library that support the academic and personal enrichment of library users.

Book Reservation

If a book within the library's collection is not immediately available, users can request the book by completing a reservation form which is available at the Circulation Desk. Only 2 books can be reserved at a time. The borrower is informed as soon as the book is available. The book is to be collected within 3 days from the date of notice.

Plagiarism

LSU library offers training on how to use Turnitin antiplagiarism software. Please note that it is not the Library's or the Librarian's responsibility to conduct similarity checks. Users can liaise with relevant departments and/or lecturers to perform this task.

Reference management training

The LSU Library Department conducts training sessions on reference management services. Reference Management Tools used at LSU are Zotero and Mendeley.

Internet and computing services

The Library provides free access to internet and computers for users engaging in academic research. Patrons can use this facility to access our electronic resources, the OPAC (Catalogue), Institutional Repository, Past Examination Papers repository and other sites relevant to their academic studies. Patrons requiring assistance to use the facility are advised to seek assistance from the librarian on duty.


Research support services

The Libraries provide support services to guide users throughout the research process. These services include conducting a literature search, research data management, use of research tools, archival of research on the IR, measuring research impact, publishing support and open access

Client Services

As part of its comprehensive services, the Library provides a conducive environment and a wealth of resources for users seeking to read and engage with print materials. Our dedicated staff are readily available to assist and support all users in their research and reading endeavors. Furthermore, the library extends access to its facilities to external users for a nominal fee, fostering wider community engagement and resource sharing.

Inter-library loan

The Library can obtain for its patrons books and other materials it does not have from other libraries. All such requests should be submitted to the User ServicesLibrarian through the reference section for necessary action. Note that inter-library loans are subject to the terms imposed by the lending library.

Use of computers and internet in the Library

The library have computers in the knowledge commons where Lupane State University registered students and staff can access the internet. The knowledge commons can be used by students/ staff to do their academic research, access e resources, type assignments, check e-mails and access the library catalog.

NB: Students are not allowed to abuse the computers by viewing sensitive materials like pornographic material and accessing social networks.

Online access to catalogue

Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) is an online database of materials held by the library. Students can access the OPAC by navigating to the library website. The OPAC allows remote access to library collections, The OPAC allows students to view the the library collection, status of a book whether its short loan, long-term, available in the library and its location