Call Number

This is the unique group of letters and numbers assigned to each book in the library according to its subject. The call number is usually located on the spine or front cover of the book. This number indicates where the book is located in the library stacks.

Check Out

The action of borrowing a library material from the library. You will need a validated TSTC ID to be able to check out a book.

Circulation Desk

The circulation desk or front desk of the library is the place where you go to check out, place a hold, return, renew, and pay fines on library materials.

Citation

A citation usually contains the title, author, and descriptive information about the cited books, magazine articles, or other sources.

Databases

An electronic collection of organized information. Some databases contain the full text of articles. The databases provide an interface to easily search through their collection. Most databases give you the author, title, and publication information and an abstract which summarizes the article. If the full text is not available, you can consult with a staff member to obtain a copy of the article.

Due Date

The date by when the borrowed materials must be returned. Fines will be assessed for books that are returned late. If you wish to extend the borrowing period go to the circulation desk to renew the item.

Fine

The amount of money you will be charged if a library material is returned late.

Hold

The action of requesting an item that another person has checked out. You will be notified by a library staff member when the book is returned and will hold the book for you for 2 days.

Library Catalog

The Library Catalog is the database that stores the book collection. You can search the Library Catalog by author, title, subject, call number, or keyword. The Catalog also contains books on reserve, audio tapes, and videos that we have in our collection.

Microfilm

Reels of 35mm film upon which printed information is reproduced. The TSTC Library has one microfilm reader that allows you to print the information you need.

Periodical

A magazine, journal, or newspaper published on a continuing basis, such as weekly, monthly, or quarterly. Periodicals can be checked out for a 3 day period at the circulation desk.

Renew

If you wish to extended your lending period, you may bring it to the Circulation Desk and check it out again. If no one has a hold on that item, you will receive a new due date.

Reserve

Faculty frequently place supplementary class material on Reserve. These items cannot be checked out of the library. You are allowed to borrow the item for a limit of two hours.

Stacks

Refers to books or journals in printed and/or bound form shelved on book cases.