For New Users: Getting Started
Let's face it, navigating the universe of scientific information is not something you can learn to do overnight. It's complicated. The Libraries are here to help you. This checklist will help get you set up and ready to do research in chemistry. If you're a new undergraduate, check out the
For Undergraduates orientation page.
Obtain your UT EID
- You will need your EID and password to conduct your online library business, log into library workstations, and access information resources from off campus. Make sure that you choose a strong password, which is required for login to library workstations. NEVER share your EID and password with anyone else.
Set up your computer.
- Obtain BevoWare software to get UT-compliant security, media viewers, browsers, email clients, virus protection, etc. Bevoware is free to students and faculty.
- Make sure you have a good anti-virus system and that it's always up to date.
- Remember that UT offers special pricing and licensing options for many commercial software products.
Install a good Web browser:
- Firefox is probably the best. Experience has shown it's advisable to avoid MS-Internet Explorer when possible.
- Install necessary plugins for chemistry applications. Some are generalized and others are site- or application-specific. Mac users beware: some chemical plugins are Windows-only.
- Configure your browser to open and read PDF documents as desired. Install the latest version of Adobe Reader.
Install SciFinder Scholar software.
Install MDL (Beilstein) Commander software (for organic and medicinal chemists).
Purchase and install EndNote bibliographic management software if desired.
Set up wireless ethernet connectivity for your laptop.
Bookmark some important starting points:
Set up Alerts for your favorite journals.
Attend relevant Library Classes and Tours on various resources and skills.
Finally, be ready to use the physical library.
- Always carry your UT ID card. You can't check out books without it.
- Obtain departmental and/or library copy cards to user the photocopiers.
- Familiarize yourself with important reference sources in chemistry subjects.
- View the Library Hours page to know when libraries are open.
If you have any questions, please ask a staff member or use the Ask a Librarian form.
