New Student Guide

Welcome to The Cooper Union Library!

We put together a brief guide with some of the basics you need to know to take advantage of the library resources and services available to support your academic and creative work.

The most important thing to know is that we are always happy to help, so don't hesitate to reach out via chat, email or phone with any questions you have or problems you encounter. 

Using The Cooper Union Library

Located on the ground floor of the Foundation Building, The Cooper Union Library is open seven days a week, but hours vary, so check the hours page before venturing over. 

Searching for Books, Articles and Other Resources

The search box on the Library's homepage is the primary tool you can use to find books, journal articles and a host of other resources. 

The first tab, "Books & More," searches the Cooper Union library collections, as well as those of New York University, The New School, the New York School of Interior Design, and others. 

The second tab "Articles and Databases" takes you to an A-Z list of The Cooper Union Library's collection of ebooks, ejournals and other databases you can access anywhere on campus and remotely (more on that below).

The third tab lets you search for a specific E-Journal, and the fourth tab searches lets you search for Course Reserve readings.  

Checking Out Books

Your Cooper Union ID card is your library card, so bring it with you in case you find a book your can't live without. More detailed information on the services and policies can be found on the Checkout, Renew, Return page. 

Consulting with a Librarian 

If you're having trouble finding just the right resource, or need help defining what exactly it is you're looking for, you can easily schedule a one-on-one research consultation with one of our subject specialists.

Connecting Remotely

As excited as we are to welcome you back to the Library, we know that it's not always possible or convenient to stop by.

Searching for Books, Articles, and Other Resources

Fortunately, the Library's online resources, including ebooks, e-journals, and databases containing various information sources, are accessible from anywhere. All you need is your @cooper.edu account login.

Issues logging in? You can email circulation@cooper.edu to resolve the issue. 

Requesting an Item for Pick Up or eDelivery

If you need a book or article—whether it's in The Cooper Union Library, one of the consortium libraries, or even if you're not sure who has it, you can submit a request, and we will email you when it is ready for pick-up. Or, if you just need an article or chapter, we will email it to you directly. 

Consulting with a Librarian 

Our librarians are also available for online research consultations. Whether you have a quick question or a complex assignment, you can chat, email or set up a consult via Zoom.

Access to other Academic Libraries

In addition to the information resources of The Cooper Union Library, you also have access to the libraries of New York University, The New School, the New York School of Interior Design and Cardozo School of Law.

Access to NYU's Bobst Library

The Bobst Library is now open to Cooper Union students and faculty who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Before you visit, please be sure to download the NYU Mobile app onto your mobile phone and complete the "Daily Screener." To complete the NYU Daily Screener:

1. Select “No” on the question “Do you have a NYU NetID and password?"   

2. Enter your @cooper.edu email address when prompted. 

3. Fill out the other required information.

4. Click "next" to submit. You should receive a notice of “Screener Status: Pass,” displayed on a green banner.

5. Take a screenshot or open your email to re-access this green “Pass” screener.

At Bobst, show the guard your Cooper Union ID and the green “pass” screen at the Bobst Security Desk.
If you receive a red screen or you’re a message indicating you are not authorized, please contact The Cooper Union Library at library@cooper.edu, so we can troubleshoot the issue.

Access to The New School Libraries

As of February 28, The New School (TNS) Libraries and Archives are allowing visitors [alumni, consortium members, outside researchers (by appointment)] who meet vaccination and booster requirements (refer to Gaining Access to Buildings) on campus. Individuals who wish to visit the Libraries must follow the University’s protocols (more details soon):

• Individual visitors must check in at the Welcome Center Visitors Desk (72 Fifth Avenue) to receive a daily guest pass. 

• Proof of vaccination and a booster are required for campus access. No exemptions or exceptions will be allowed.

• Masks must be worn at all times in campus buildings. 

Access to the New York School of Interior Design Library

For access to the NYSID Library, go to http://library.nysid.edu/library/, click on the ‘Email a Librarian’ link (under ‘Physical Hours’), and fill out the form. Currently, all visitors are required to submit their proofs of vaccination by email in advance, but booster shots are not required. All individuals are required to wear a well-fitted mask, such as the 3-ply surgical masks, KN95 masks or N95 masks. A cloth mask can only be worn over a surgical mask.