UNISA Library Services 2026

The UNISA library is one of the largest academic libraries in Africa, and as a registered student, you have full online access to its extensive digital collection. This includes thousands of e-books, academic journals, databases, and multimedia resources — all accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. Access the library through myUNISA or directly at the UNISA library website. Log in with your student number and myUNISA password.

Key databases available include JSTOR, EBSCOhost, ProQuest, Emerald, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar (via institutional access). These databases contain millions of academic articles, research papers, and scholarly publications. The library also offers physical services at UNISA campuses including the Muckleneuk campus in Pretoria, where you can access study spaces, computer labs, and physical book collections. Regional libraries exist at UNISA's regional offices.

For research support, the library offers information literacy workshops, research consultation services, and inter-library loans. Librarians can help you find sources for assignments and research projects. The library's Ask-a-Librarian service is available online for quick queries..

Additional Information

Essential Library Resources for Students

E-books: Thousands of full-text e-books across all subjects
Academic Journals: Millions of peer-reviewed articles from global publishers
Past Exam Papers: Access previous years' exam papers for practice
Theses & Dissertations: UNISA's institutional repository of postgraduate research
Newspapers & Magazines: SA Media database for South African publications
Reference Tools: Encyclopaedias, dictionaries, and handbooks

Making the Most of Library Resources

Research Strategy for Assignments

When searching for sources for your assignment, follow this systematic approach:

Start with prescribed textbooks: Your prescribed and recommended textbooks are the foundation. They contain the core content your lecturer expects you to engage with.
Search UNISA's databases: Use EBSCOhost or JSTOR for peer-reviewed journal articles that support and expand on textbook content. Use keywords from your assignment question.
Use Google Scholar (institutional access): Access Google Scholar through the UNISA library portal for free access to many articles that would otherwise be behind paywalls.
Check the reference lists: Look at the reference lists of articles you find useful — they often point to other relevant sources.
Evaluate your sources: Prefer peer-reviewed journal articles and academic books. Avoid Wikipedia, random blogs, and unreliable websites. Check publication dates — use recent sources (last 5-10 years) unless the topic requires historical sources.

Database Tips

EBSCOhost: Best for business, social sciences, and humanities articles. Use the Advanced Search to filter by date, peer-reviewed status, and full-text availability.
JSTOR: Excellent for historical and foundational academic articles. Especially strong in humanities and social sciences.
ProQuest: Good for dissertations, theses, and newspapers. Useful for research on South African topics.
ScienceDirect: The go-to database for science, engineering, and medical research articles.
Emerald: Strong in management, business, and library science journals.

Physical Library Services

While most students use UNISA's library services online, the physical libraries offer valuable resources and spaces:

Muckleneuk Library (Main Library)

UNISA's main library at the Muckleneuk campus in Pretoria is one of the largest academic libraries in Africa. It houses millions of books, journals, and multimedia resources. The library offers quiet study spaces, group study rooms, computer labs with internet access, printing and photocopying services, and personalised research assistance from qualified librarians.

Regional Libraries

Smaller library collections are available at UNISA regional offices across South Africa. While not as comprehensive as the main library, regional libraries provide access to core academic resources, computer facilities, and study spaces. Check the operating hours of your nearest regional library before visiting.

Inter-Library Loans

If a book or journal you need is not available in the UNISA library system, you can request it through inter-library loan. This service sources materials from other South African university libraries. There is a small fee per request, and delivery typically takes 1-2 weeks. Place inter-library loan requests through the library's online system or by contacting the library directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access the UNISA library online?+

Log into myUNISA and navigate to the Library section, or go directly to the UNISA library website. Use your student number and myUNISA password to access databases and e-books.

What databases are available?+

UNISA provides access to major academic databases including JSTOR, EBSCOhost, ProQuest, Emerald, ScienceDirect, Sage, Taylor & Francis, and Google Scholar with institutional access.

Can I visit the library in person?+

Yes, UNISA's main library is at the Muckleneuk campus in Pretoria. Regional libraries exist at UNISA offices across South Africa. Bring your student card for access.

How do I request a book?+

Use the library's online catalogue to search for books. You can request items for inter-library loan if they are not available at your nearest UNISA library. There may be a small fee for inter-library loans.

Is there research support available?+

Yes, the library offers research consultation services, information literacy workshops, and an Ask-a-Librarian online service for quick queries about finding sources and using databases.

Related UNISA Guides

UNISA Status Checker — check your application status
UNISA Courses List — browse all qualifications
Fees Calculator — estimate costs
How to Apply to UNISA — application guide
Registration Guide — step-by-step registration