Library
The Gustave L. and Janet W. Levy Library is a modern, state-of-the-art resource which supports the educational, research and patient care programs of Mount Sinai. Entrance to the library is from the 11th floor passenger elevator in the lobby of the Annenberg Building. A library guide, including maps, is available upon request.
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Collections
The library accommodates 300 users at tables and carrels and in individual and group study rooms. The 160,000 volume collection of books, journals, audiovisuals and computer software can be accessed through the SIRSI Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC). The 1,850 currently received journals are also listed in the OPAC. Recommendations of books and journals for the collection are welcomed and should be submitted to the Collection Development Librarian. A large number of journals, reference sources and databases are available in electronic format from individual computers by going to the library webpage.
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Reference and Database Services
Reference librarians instruct individuals and groups in the use of the OPAC, indexes and abstracts, and other reference sources. They also provide guidance in information search strategy and assist in the location, verification and interpretation of bibliographic and factual data. Reference services are provided at the Reference Desk and by telephone. The library subscribes to a number of computerized bibliographic and full-text databases which can be used for retrospective and current awareness literature searches. Reference librarians meet with users to analyze requests, select appropriate databases, and formulate and run searches. Charges for these services vary depending on the database used and the nature of the search. In addition to these mediated database services, the library offers end-user (independent) access to databases such as MEDLINE through facilities located near the Reference Desk, in the Media Resource Center, over the medical school network and by remote dial-in.
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Educational Programs
The Library staff offer educational programs on the use of library services, informational resources, and search systems on a scheduled basis. In addition, the library participates in the curriculum of the medical school and library staff teach several electives. Library orientations and tours are also offered on a scheduled basis for students, faculty, nurses, secretaries, technicians, and other medical center personnel. Educational programs on the use of software are also available. Arrangements may be made with the Library Director for the development of additional educational programs.
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Interlibrary Loans
Materials which are unavailable in the Levy Library can be obtained on interlibrary loan by filling out request forms which are available at the Reference Desk or in the Interlibrary Loan Office. In addition, the library offers a convenient document delivery service for journal articles. Charges for this service are based on the number of items requested and transmission and delivery options, including telefacsimile.
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Library Hours
The library is open seven days per week. Library hours are posted in the lobby of the eleventh floor entrance to the library.
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Circulation Policies
Eligible library patrons are required to register at the Circulation Desk to receive library privileges. A valid MSMC identification badge is required to register for privileges. A bar code will be attached to your ID and you must present your bar-coded ID to charge out any library material. Materials may be renewed twice, by telephone or in person, provided they have not been requested by other library patrons. Borrowers are responsible for the prompt return of all materials charged out to them. Fines are charged for overdue materials and persistent failure to comply with Circulation policies will result in suspension of library privileges.
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Course Reserves
Materials needed for specific courses will be placed on reserve upon request from the faculty course director. Reserve lists should be submitted as far in advance as possible.
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Book Drops
A book drop is available at the library entrance for the return of materials when the library is closed. An additional book drop is located at the top of the escalator on the plaza level of the Annenberg Building.
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Photocopying
Photocopy card and coin-operated photocopiers are available for self-service. Requests for copy card and operator copy services should be made at the Circulation Desk. Charges for these services may be made to fund or budgetary accounts or paid by cash or check. The library strictly adheres to copyright law and guidelines.
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Media Resource Center (MRC)
The MRC is located on the tenth floor in Room 10-83. The facilities include the Associated Alumni Audiovisual Center, a microcomputer laboratory, and a computer classroom. Audiovisual programs and related equipment are available for use in the library or off the premises. The OPAC provides access to this collection.
Microcomputers for individual use are located in the MRC microlab. Microcomputer applications include student testing, database searching, word processing, file management, electronic worksheets, graphics, decision analysis, and generation of data reports. Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) is available on a microcomputer network. CAI offers tutorials, reviews, and patient simulations in basic and clinical sciences.
The MRC manages medical school software site licenses, coordinates remote access to library databases and arranges Internet access. Applications for these services, which are available to Mount Sinai personnel only, are located in the MRC.
The MRC coordinates development of the Icahn School of Medicine World Wide Web home page and works with departmental designees on preparation of their pages. MRC staff also coordinate electronic mail services for students and house staff and can answer questions from faculty regarding mail accounts and access.
A computer "HELP DESK" is available for consultation in person and by telephone (extension 47091) during regular MRC hours.
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Academic Computing
Academic Computing staff maintain the Medical School network, support institutional servers, provide desktop support and provide repair services. The programming group develops school-based applications to facilitate administrative and faculty activities.
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Medical Center Archives
The Archives is located on the tenth floor in Room 10-53. The collection consists of over 900 linear feet of documentation, including paper records, oral histories, videorecordings, photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia relating to Mount Sinai Hospital (1852- ), Icahn School of Medicine (1963- ), Mount Sinai Medical Center (1968- ) Mount Sinai School of Nursing (1881-1974), and Neustadter Convalescent Center (1913- 1972). Among the earliest record are the original minutes of the Hospital Board, dating from February 25, 1852.
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Library Committee
The Library Committee of the Faculty Council advises the library staff on policy and makes recommendations on developing the library collection. For further information see Chapter III.
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General Policies
Smoking, food and drinks are prohibited in the Levy Library.