Xwi7xwa - Distance Research

This guide is intended for UBC students, faculty, staff, and researchers who have been impacted by the recent changes in services due to global health concerns. Here you will find updates, information on getting your devices connected to UBC services, and tips and tricks for researching Indigenous topics remotely. 

Our staff are working from home and are available through email at xwi7xwa.library@ubc.ca to:

• answer research questions
• find online materials for papers & research topics
• find alternative materials to items only available in print
• cancel late fees from March 16 until the situation changes

Moving Online

As we progressively move to an online environment X̱wi7x̱wa is shifting away from print and physical materials. Many of the resources we highlight in this guide will be available online (journals, databases, etc.) 

When searching a databases:​

If you are having issues with accessing online resources through the UBC library, please fill out this form to receive help gaining access! 

Can I borrow physical items from the library?

Yes! Users can now visit UBC Libraries in person to borrow physical items.

The Materials Pick-Up Service ended September 2 at 4 p.m.  Materials ordered prior to the closure of the service will be available for pick-up from the Koerner Library circulation desk.

How can I return my items?

Please return your materials in-person to any library. If the library is closed, please return your materials using the Koerner Library, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, or Education Library book drops. Materials can also be returned to the outside book drop at Robson Square and the inside book drop at the Biomedical Branch; processing at these off-campus sites may take up to two weeks. 

Fragile or oversize materials that cannot be returned through a book drop should be returned in-person during the library's operating hours.

How can I renew my materials?

Renew materials online through your MyAccounts page. Should you have trouble renewing your loans or have any questions, please contact UBC Library via the Assistance Form.

What about my due dates and fines?

UBC Library has eliminated most daily overdue fines for all library users. Overdue fees will continue for high-demand items, including recalled items. Charges for items deemed lost, which applies to items not returned after more than 28 days, will also remain in effect. Please contact us via the Assistance Form with any questions.

Can I still make Interlibrary Loan requests?

There is currently a reduced ability to fill Interlibrary Loan requests.

COVID-19 is impacting the ability of Interlibrary Loans to fill your requests. Numerous libraries are closed. In other cases, staff are working remotely and can only fill requests from electronic resources.

• Books and other physical items – you can submit requests for physical material but it might take time to fill the requests as many libraries are either still closed or the ILL units are operating on a limited basis.
• Articles/Book Chapters – many libraries are accessing their print collections, so it is easier to fill ILL requests for articles/book chapters.

For updates with regards to UBC Library during the closure, please visit the Library Service Update.

Research Assistance Email                             xwi7xwa.library@ubc.ca       or       karleen.delaurier-lyle@ubc.ca