Bakersfield College

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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Library Catalog available from off-campus?
  Yes, it is. Connect to the Library homepage http://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/library  Click on the BC Library Catalog link.

• How can I check out books?
  Just present your Gades card, your books and yourself at the Circulation Desk. The Gades card is free at the Student Activities office near the cafeteria. 

• My professor said that this book (or article) is in the Library; where can I find it?
  Most likely it is in the Reserve Collection which is kept at the Circulation Desk in the main lobby.

• Can I use the CSUB library?
  Yes. Anyone can use the CSUB Library as a walk-in, just as anyone can use the BC Library. However, if you wish to check out books, you will need to obtain a community card first. BC has an agreement with CSUB that, with a completed form, you may purchase a community card at half the normal cost. You may fill out the form at the BC Library Reference Desk.

• Can I use the library research databases (EBSCOhost, etc.) from off-campus?
  Yes, you can. Connect to the Library homepage http://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/library  Click on the database you wish to search,  login using your Student ID Number (do not include the @ sign). You may then search as you would in the Library. 

• I've tried connecting to the periodical indexes from home without success. Is there someone who can help me?
  Yes, call the Reference Desk 395-4466 during Library hours for assistance.

• Is wireless Internet access available in the library?  Yes.  To use it, allow your laptop or mobile device to locate the KCCD Open wireless network.  Then open a web browser and when prompted for a user name and password, enter your complete BC email address as your username.  Your password is your Banner password (that you would use to register for classes).  Be sure to click the "Accept" box to accept the terms associated with using the wireless network.

• Can I print wirelessly?  No.  However, you can always forward a document from your laptop to a wired computer in the library via your email account, and then print.

• Can I renew my books by email?
  Not yet, although we hope to offer that option in the future. You may call 395-4461 to renew books by phone if they are not overdue.

• Why isn't the Library open more hours?
  Money and staffing are the primary difficulties. Although we are not open until 11pm as are many residential college libraries, we are open Saturdays (11 - 3) during the Fall and Spring semesters. Summer hours are more limited.

• What happens if I don't pay my ridiculous Library overdue fines?
  If you have outstanding Library fines, you cannot register for classes or receive a transcript. Fines do add up at $.25 per day per book, so be careful with the due dates.

• Does the Library have a color photocopier?
  Not at this time.

• Why can't I find any good recent best-sellers in this Library?
  Since the purpose of a college Library is to support the curriculum, the Library doesn't purchase popular fiction titles unless they are course-related. Check out the Pop collection on the spinning rack near the Reference Desk for some reading  ideas. You may have better luck with recreational reading at the public library.