SMU Libraries Search
The library search will locate books and articles within our collections. Feel free to contact me or schedule an appointment if you need help with search strategies.
Art History Databases
Here are some recommend art history databases if you are needing a more specialized database for historical and cultural context.
WorldCat.org
WorldCat searches the catalogs of libraries all around the world. If you are on campus, WorldCat will recognize your IP address and give you results close to SMU. If you are off campus, you can enter your zip code and locate books in libraries that are near you. Most libraries participate in TexShare (see below) or have scanners available to use.
TexShare Cards
The TexShare card will allow you to check out books at other participating libraries in Texas.
1. Visit the Fondren Library Main Desk to ask for a TexShare card.
2. Call or check the website of the library you want to visit to verify they are a TexShare library.
3. Drive to the library where they have the books you are needing.
4. Give them your TexShare card and they will set up an account for you.
Some libraries are not TexShare libraries, but many do allow visitors to view their items (e.g. DMA Mayer Library).
Interlibrary Loan
You can request items to be delivered to SMU via Interlibrary Loan. Since there is a quick turnaround time for your research, I highly recommend requesting individual book chapters instead of a full book. A book must be delivered through the mail because scanning the entire book violates copyright laws. It can take up to 2-3 weeks for books to arrive. But, an individual chapter of a book is usually allowed and can be sent by email within 24-72 hours. Let me know if you need help locating a book's table of contents.
Patents
There are several databases to conduct patent searches to if the lamp or parts of the lamp have patents which will give further information about materials and diagrams.
Schedule an appointment with Hollie for help with developing search strategies, choosing sources, locating books on the shelf, scanning images, and more!
Not available during these times?
Send Hollie an email to schedule an appointment outside of office hours.