Distance Learners
General Information
Who is a Distance Learner?
A Distance Learner is ANYONE who takes a class through eCollege/online or on a campus other than the Commerce campus.
What can the library do for me?
The library can assist any patron on or off campus with learning how to use library resources and by providing assistance with research.
Does the library have any online tutorials?
Yes! Our How to page has information on accessing the databases, research FAQs, and tutorials. The tutorials cover a wide range of topics which include forming a research strategy, accessing online databases, finding journals, using the library catalog, and understanding plagiarism.
What is Access Services?
Access Services is where you find general information such as book check out periods and renewals. The following programs are provided through Access Services.
- TexShare is a program that the library participates in that allows users to check out books at participating TexShare libraries. Access Services can provide students with more information about the program.
- Texas A&M University-Commerce also has a partnership with the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University both located in Denton. Faculty, students, and staff may use their A&M – Commerce ID's to check out materials from the libraries at both universities. You would be following the borrowing policies of their libraries and would be responsible for returning the materials.
What is Interlibrary Loan?
Interlibrary Loan acquires materials from other libraries for Texas A&M University – Commerce faculty members, graduate students, undergraduate students and staff. If you request a book, we borrow a copy. If you request a journal article, we obtain a photocopy. There is no charge associated with interlibrary loan.
What are Subject Specialists?
Subject Specialists, also referred to as Reference Librarians, are responsible for maintaining and developing library collections related to specific departments. They also are responsible for assisting students and faculty with learning how to use library resources and providing assistance with research.
Who are the Subject Specialists?
Craig Wheeler – Head of Reference and the Humanities Librarian. Mr. Wheeler’s primary duties are to direct all reference efforts including instruction, research assistance, and staffing in the Reference Department. He also works with Literature & Languages, Philosophy, Music, Art, Photography, Theatre, Mass Communications, RTV, and Journalism.
Karen Akins – Science Librarian. Ms. Akins assists with Agricultural Science, Biological and Environmental Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, and Wildlife and Conservation Science.
Scott Lancaster – Education Librarian. Mr. Lancaster is responsible for coordinating Curriculum Library activities and services. He assists with Counseling, Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, Heath & Human Performance, Psychology & Special Education.
Sarah Northam – Business Reference and Outreach Librarian. Ms. Northam assists the academic departments of Applied Sciences, Accounting, Economics & Finance, Business Administration and Management Information Systems, Industrial Engineering and Technology, Marketing and Management. She is also responsible for coordinating outreach to distance learners.
David Rankin – Social Science and Government Documents Librarian. Mr. Rankin assists the departments of History, Political Science, Social Work, Sociology and Criminal Justice.
Are Subject Specialists available after hours and on weekends?
There is a subject specialist on duty Monday through Thursday 8 AM - 10 PM, Friday 8 AM - 5 PM, and Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM. They are also available by email. On Sundays someone is available from 2 PM - 10 PM at the reference services desk who can answer database and catalog questions and assist with simple research needs. If in-depth research needs are required the student will be referred to a subject specialist.
What is "Ask a Librarian"?
"Ask a Librarian" allows a student to chat live with a Subject Specialist if one is available. If a Subject Specialist is not available the student can send an email. Emails should receive a response within 48 hours.
 Federal Depository Library Program participant |
Texas A&M University – Commerce Libraries PO Box 3011, Commerce, Texas 75429 – 3011 (903) 886-5720 |
 TexShare program participant |
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