A.      Library Services

The library provides access to books, video, and audiotapes, compact discs, DVDs, slides, records, and computer software.  Access to the library's holdings is available through an online public access catalogue. Numerous computer databases are available on-campus for student and community use via the library's local area network.  From off-campus, the network and online reserves are available for students and college staff via password access.  Library tours and formal information literacy instruction are available by appointment.

Library materials may be borrowed by Howard Community College students, faculty, staff, and Maryland residents with appropriate Howard Community College ID card or valid community resident card, which is issued by the HCC library.  Off-campus, digital access to reserve materials and online databases are available to current students and staff only.  It is the responsibility of the borrower to report a lost card to a member of the library staff.

All library materials available for circulation may be checked out at the checkout desk.  Users are required to have valid HCC ID or community resident card with library barcode at the time of checkout.

All financial obligations to the library for fines or cost of lost and damaged materials must be met before release of grades, transcripts, or resumption of library borrowing privileges.

Faculty are encouraged to recommend appropriate print and non-print additions to the library collection.  First priority will be given to those materials which support the instructional program.  Orders for previewing of high-cost video and multi-media items should be arranged through the library office.  Faculty should not send in requests for previews directly to the publisher.  Specialized materials not available in the library and not appropriate for purchase for the college’s collection may be ordered through interlibrary loan.  Requests will be handled through the library office.

B.       Audio-Visual Services

Audio-visual services include graphic arts production and audio-visual equipment distribution.  The production area provides support for instruction through the production of audio-visual materials: photographics, computer-generated art, instructional publications, and transparency output services as well as support and training for faculty and staff in various levels of multimedia production, Internet utilization, and online instruction.  Equipment distribution provides support for instruction through the delivery, maintenance, and network interfacing of audio-visual equipment.  Additional services are provided for distance learning activities and satellite downlinking for teleconference support.  Audio-visual services are available to HCC faculty, staff, and administration.  Limited access can also be provided for students per authorization by a faculty member for specific assignments.

C.       Archives

The HCC Archive is maintained and housed in the library.  Minutes from all major committees and boards are kept in addition to numerous other items including over 3,000 photographs detailing the history of the college.  Access to the archive is available by appointment.

Additionally, the Senator James Clark Archive is maintained by and housed in the library.  This archive contains the official papers of former Maryland State Senator Clark.  Access to this archive is available by appointment.

Policy Manual Review/Revision:    4/8/05