Using Library Resources

Q: I'm a CC alum, do I still have access to library resources?

Connecticut College alumni are welcome to visit the Library and may register for borrowing privileges by presenting proof of alumni status at the circulation desk. While on campus alumni may search all of the Library's databases and e-resources. From off campus alumni have access to the Academic Search Alumni Edition database (log in required).

Q: Does the library have children's books?

We have a small collection of children's books, which are shelved alphabetically by author and are located on the lower level of Shain.

Q: Does the library have audio books?

Yes, we do! You can find them in the Leisure Reading section on the lower level of Shain. You can also find them in Caravan by searching for the title or author.

Q: How do I find out if the library subscribes to a specific journal?

From the Libraries & Technolgy homepage, select the link "Journals Tab." Type in the journal title. Results will indicate if we have the journal and whether we have it in print format or electronically via a database.

Q: How long will it take for my CTW/ILL loan to come in?

On average, CTW titles take two or three days to arrive, and ILL items take around ten days (for a book) or three days (for an article).

Q: How long can I take a book out for?

Faculty may borrow books for the academic year; students and others may borrow books for 4 weeks. The borrowing period for DVDs and videotapes is 8 days for faculty and 3 days for students. See the Information Services policies page for more information.

Q: Are there fines for bringing a book or DVD back late?

Check the Shain Library Policies page for more information or contact the Circulation Department at 439-2662 with specific questions about fines and billing.

Q: If I am a student/faculty at another college/school may I take out books from Connecticut College?

Check the Shain Library Policies page for more information.

Q: Does the library provide copies of textbooks?

In general, the library does not purchase textbooks for specific courses (although you may want to check Caravan to make sure). To find out if a given book for your class is on reserve, use the "Reserves" tab on the main IS page.

Q: Where are the newspapers? Do you keep older copies of newspapers?

Current and recent newspaper issues can be found in the newspaper area on the first floor of Shain Library. The library also has microfilm holdings for older issues of some newspapers (check Caravan if you have a specific newspaper in mind); in addition, the library subscribes to a number of databases of historical newspapers (see under "Newspapers" on the main database page).

Q: Can I access library materials from off campus?

Current students, faculty and staff can access the library’s electronic subscription products, such as e-journals and databases, from off-campus by logging in with their network user name and password when prompted. See the Off-Campus Access page for more information.