Frequently Asked Questions
LIBRARY INFORMATION
Q: What are the normal business hours of the NRAO Library?
A: The library is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm EST. See the Library Management Policy.
Q: What are the library's terms for borrowing?
A: See the Library’s Borrowing Policy.
Q: Does the library maintain an institutional repository?
A: No, the library does not maintain a traditional institutional repository. See NRAO Archives and NRAO Telescope Data for information.
Q: Can I use the NRAO Library for my meeting?
A: See the Space Use Policy.
ACCESS
Q: Why is the catalog prompting me to sign in?
A: Only self-checkout, placing a hold, or account management require a log-in to the catalog. Remember, your logon is NOT the same as your NRAO username and password. Our catalog is an outside vended system.
Q: How do I access journals and books when away from NRAO?
A: Use Remote Desktop or Windows Terminal Servers (via VPN) to access content when away from NRAO Facilities. Contact the CIS Helpdesk for additional assistance.
Q: Which journals are accessible to NRAO Staff?
A: See the Electronic Journals page for the list and range of holdings.
Q: What if I need an article or report that is not listed on the journals page or I cannot download it myself?
A: Email your request with the article or report’s citation to libweb@nrao.edu.
Q: How do I find an eBook?
A: See the eBooks page for access.
Q: How do I request a book, report or other material needed for my research?
A: Send your request through the 'Contact Us' link or via email to libweb@nrao.edu.
Q: Can the NRAO Library provide me images or information for my report?
A: See the NRAO Gallery for a variety of astronomical images and use policies.
Q: Can the NRAO Library staff respond to questions and answer astronomy questions from the general public?
A: See the Reference Policy, and submit your questions to NRAO’s Ask An Astronomer.
EDITORIAL
Q: What are NRAO Library conventions for standardizing table of contents pages and posting memorandum, reports, and publications?
A: See both the Publication Support Policy and Editorial Policy.
Q: How do I cite an NRAO facility whose formal title includes the name of an honored person as a prefix?
A: See the Publication Support Policy.
