Once you locate a dissertation using the methods on the right, there are several ways to try to acquire a copy of that dissertation if it is not online for free:
1. Use the Library's free Interlibrary Loan service. If you need a copy of a dissertation that is not available online full text, you can use the UVa Library's free Interlibrary Loan Service (ILS). ILS staff will try to borrow a copy for you from the university that has a copy.
2. Purchase a copy from Proquest. Proquest will sell print or electronic copies of dissertations to individuals.
3. Purchase from a bookstore. Some bookstores such as Amazon also sell copies of dissertations.
4. Contact the author of the dissertation. You can also try to contact the author of a dissertation to find out if he or she would send you a PDF copy.
5. Special Collections. Authors of dissertations are usually required to deposit one copy with their university's special collections. This copy usually can be accessed by visitors/scholars, but can't be checked out. Contact the library where the author obtained their dissertation for availability. In most cases, the dissertations will be listed in that university's online catalog and provide information about availability.
5. Contact a Librarian. Ask one of the UVa Librarians for help in locating the author of a dissertation or a copy of the dissertation. 434.924.3628, 424.924.7209 or Contact Us