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Services for Online Students

The AMBS Library provides the following information and services to students who are enrolled in AMBS online courses.

1. Internet Resources

The AMBS Library website provides access to a wide variety of online books, articles and databases. Some are free and some require entering your AMBS Library barcode number.  Take time to explore these resources before the course begins. You may continue to use them after the class is finished.  Questions regarding access should be sent to libraryassistant@ambs.edu.

2. Local Library Collections   (Links to libraries around the world)

Use your local public library for basic reference and supplementary materials.  Ask the librarians what full text electronic resources are available to patrons.  In general, public library collections are of limited use for graduate theological study.  However, most public libraries provide efficient interlibrary loan services which you should use to acquire items not available from the AMBS Library.

If there is an academic library nearby which can provide materials for AMBS course work, find out what privileges are available to guests.   If you intend to use the services and materials of a local academic library that is not open to the general public, inform the AMBS Library staff.  We will send a request on your behalf to the library.  Any costs related to the use of the collection are paid by the student.

3. Direct Services from the AMBS Library

The AMBS Library receives requests for reference assistance and AMBS Library materials by electronic mail or telephone.  Email is preferred (libraryassistant@ambs.edu).

a. Reference Services

You may request assistance in locating information on a particular topic or in acquiring specific materials.  A librarian is generally available by phone between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.  If you a leave request at another time, you may expect a response within two business days. 

b. Direct Lending

The AMBS Library provides direct loan services to students enrolled in AMBS online courses.   A book request must include author, title, publisher and date.   A request for a journal article must include author, title, journal title, volume number, issue number and date.   The library staff will respond to requests within two business days.  Students may not request class textbooks.

4. AMBS Library Policies

a. Hours for Reference Assistance and Requesting Materials:

Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m EST.  Additional evening and Saturday hours when classes are in session on campus.

b. Requests and Delivery:

By email (libraryassistant@ambs.edu) or by phone (1-800-964-2627 or 1-574-296-6253).  Delivery by mail may be expected within one week unless otherwise specified.  Fax charges: $.50/page; $5.00 minimum

c. Loan and Renewal Periods:

Each item should be returned to the library as soon as use is complete.  Books are due on a designated day at the end of the semester.  Other materials have a shorter circulation period.  One renewal may be requested by email.

d. Overdue Materials:

When an item is overdue, the borrower will be sent a bill for the replacement cost of the book plus a $20.00 handling fee.  This bill must be paid if the item is not returned.  Fines will not be charged.

e. Witholding Grades and Credit:

Students will not receive their grade or AMBS credit if they have overdue library materials or outstanding charges.

5. AMBS Library Staff