Libraries are a bit like languages and cultures—they're all different around the world.
What are the important parts of library culture here @ Columbia College?
Librarians are here to help!
Librarians can help you find books and articles. They can teach you how to do research, write a strong research paper and use library and course technology. It's really important that you ask them for help! You can do that at the Reference Desk or by using email or chat.
Libraries are open to everyone!
American libraries use an "open stack" system, which means that almost all the materials are on shelves you can access yourself. Some rare or delicate materials are kept in a special storage area, but if you ask a librarian, you can access those items as well! To find a book, use the library catalog (OneSearch) to get its "call number" (the number on the side of the book), then go to the shelf and get it yourself.
You can borrow materials!
You can find more specific information about borrowing books on the Library policy page. Don't forget to return your items at the end of the semester to avoid late fees! You can return books at the outdoor drop box or at the Reference desk on the main Floor. You can also log into your My Account to see what you have borrowed or to renew your books.
This is called Inter-Library Loan (ILL). If you find a book or article that isn't at our library, we can ask another university to send it here for you. You can request ILL by signing in to your Koala Connection account and accessing the library catalog and databases.
Students can attend events, learn about new technology and library news, watch streaming videos, use computers, printers, and copiers, and even reserve special study areas for group projects.