First, look in EDUCAT to make sure you have the correct location and call number. If you still can’t find the item, you have several options:


  1. Your fastest option is to check CLIO (Columbia University’s online catalog) to see whether or not a copy is available at another Columbia library.
  2. If the item you are looking for is not listed as checked out, but not on the shelf, you can place a trace request for the library staff to search for the missing book. This can take a couple of days to complete.
  3. If the item you are looking for is listed as checked out, you may request a recall. This can take up to two weeks.
  4. If the item is not owned by any other library in the Columbia system or is determined to be lost, you may Request the library re-acquire it. This can take anywhere from a few days to four weeks. Please note, however, that requests for materials available within the Columbia system will not be filled.
  5. Another option is to check other local libraries. Ask a librarian to determine where the item might be held and to arrange entrance to other institutions via an official referral from our library.