Library

Literature Search Service

Consult your Tutorial letter 101 for a list of recommended books and e-Reserve articles for your course. If you need additional information for your assignment you can request a literature search from us.

We will be unable to provide this service if the literature search forms part of your assessment.

To compile the literature search a number of electronic databases are consulted to provide you with an overview of the literature written on your topic. The search results will include citations, abstracts, and links to full-text articles where available.

How do I request a literature search?

  1. Please use Microsoft Edge as your Browser.
  2. Please use this to access the literature search request form.
  3. If a pop-up requesting verification appears, click on "Skip verification".
  4. Complete the form and click on Submit once.
  5. To receive an email confirmation of your request, please check the box at the end of the form.

Please note that all communication regarding a literature search will be directed through your myLife mailbox as per the Unisa rules for students. 

To enquire about the status of a submitted request, send an email to lib-search@unisa.ac.za. Include your full name, student number and a contact telephone number in all your messages to us. 

Please note: This request form may be used only to request a literature search and nothing else. If you need information on how to request books and copies of journal articles or law reports, go to the Requesting and finding library material Library Guide. 

Please note:

  • We are using a new system for literature search requests which does not assign reference numbers. Check your mailbox for the acknowledgement email after submitting your request. 
  • Submit your request well in advance of your deadline because we receive a large volume of requests. Requests will be to on a first-come, first-served basis 
  • If you are eager to get started immediately, you might like to do a quick and easy search via the Library search engine which searches across all our resources. 
  • Should you encounter any problems regarding access to the literature search request form, please send an emailto lib-search@unisa.ac.za.

Last modified: Tue Jun 17 15:51:40 SAST 2025