BEVILL STATE
COMMUNITY COLLEGE
LIBRARY HANDBOOK
FAYETTE • HAMILTON • JASPER • SUMITON
PICKENS COUNTY EDUCATIONAL CENTER
Revised-July 2019
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
MISSION OF THE BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARIES ..................................................................................................... 3
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARIES HOURS ..................................................................................................................... 3
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARY STAFF MEMBERS ....................................................................................................... 3
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARY LOCATIONS ................................................................................................................. 4
THE BEVILL STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE LIBRARIES
Information about the BSCC Libraries .................................................................................................... 5
• Circulation Policy
• Overdue Fines
• Lost and/or Damaged Items
• Hold Requests
• Reserve Materials
• Copying and/or Printing Services
• Scanning and Faxing Services
Interlibrary Loan ......................................................................................................................................... 6
• Eligibility
• Borrowing Restrictions
• Copyright Issues
• Initiating Interlibrary Loan Requests
• Notifications and Use of Items
• Renewals
• Charges
• Reciprocal Borrowing Agreements
Online Public Access Catalog .................................................................................................................... 8
Introduction to Call Numbers ................................................................................................................... 11
The Library of Congress Classification System ....................................................................................... .15
Government Documents Call Numbers .................................................................................................. .17
Multi-Media Services .............................................................................................................................. ...18
• Reference Collection: Dictionaries, Encyclopedias, Almanacs, Yearbooks, Handbooks, Vertical
Files
• Periodical Collection
• Online Resources: Alabama Virtual Library, Databases, LibGuides
BSCC LIBRARIES POLICY: Library Use and Conduct ........................................................................................ 21
BSCC LIBRARIES POLICY: Privacy and Confidentiality of Library Records ....................................................... 24
EVALUATING RESOURCES ............................................................................................................................... 27
Revised-July 2019
2
BEVILL STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE LIBRARIES
Welcome to the Bevill State Community College (BSCC) Libraries!
The BSCC Library Handbook is designed to explain the Library and its available resources. The College Libraries
offer an up-to-date collection of materials selected to meet course objectives, daily assignments, and reading
interests for students, faculty, staff, and the community. The College Library staff is here to support our students’
educational and personal endeavors, and are available to assist with any assignments and/or questions. Refer
to the handbook often, but please do not hesitate to ask questions of any member of the College Library staff–
including student assistants.
MISSION OF THE BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARIES
In support of the BSCC Mission, the College Libraries provide human and material resources which support,
enhance, and supplement the educational process wherever programs or courses are located and however they
are delivered, by making available a variety of information and related learning services to students, faculty and
staff, and, when appropriate, to the general community.
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARIES HOURS
Holiday Hours are posted at the entrance of each College Library Location
FALL & SPRING SEMESTER HOURS
Monday – Thursday 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Friday 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Saturday & Sunday CLOSED
SUMMER SEMESTER HOURS
Monday – Thursday 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday, Saturday & Sunday CLOSED
BSCC CAMPUS STAFF MEMBERS
TOLL-FREE NUMBER FOR ALL CAMPUSES
1-800-648-3271
FAYETTE CAMPUS (205) 932-3221 Ext. #5141
Librarian ~ Mary Harris
Library Technical Assistant ~ Lesley
Whitehead
HAMILTON CAMPUS (205) 921-3177 Ext. #5356
Librarian ~ Tammy Sanders
Library Technical Assistant ~ Stacey Miles
JASPER CAMPUS (205) 387-0511 Ext. #5748
Librarian ~ Rebecca E. Whitten
Library Technical Assistant ~ Patricia Bowden
SUMITON CAMPUS (205) 648
-3271 Ext. #5241
Librarian ~ Rebecca E. Whitten
Library Technical Assistant ~ Margaret Williams
PICKENS COUNTY EDUCATIONAL CENTER (205) 648-3271 Ext. #5646
Part-Time Library Technical Assistant ~ Stephanie Butler
Revised-July 2019
3
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARY LOCATIONS
Several of the BSCC Libraries have specialized collections to support student instruction and research.
FAYETTE CAMPUS LIBRARY
2631 Temple Avenue North
Fayette, AL 35555
The library is located in the West Wing of the Main Building. It houses the Civil War Collection, Government
Documents, and materials and equipment to support and strengthen the instructional program of the College
through the provision of print and non-print media.
CIVIL WAR COLLECT
ION – The Fayette Campus Library houses the Civil War collection consisting of many rare
volumes of The War of Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies. The
set, donated to BSCC by Samford University, was published by the US War Department in 1880-1901.
GOVERNMENT DOCUMENTS COLLECTION – The Fayette Campus Library is designated by the United States
Superintendent of Documents as a Federal Depository Library. As a selective government depository, BSCC
receives much of what our federal government agencies publish. The topics are too numerous to list, but if a library
user is interested in medical, social, agricultural, or political topics, they may locate very helpful and recent
information in the collection.
HAMILTON CAMPUS LIBRARY
1481 Military Street South
Hamilton, AL 35570
The library is located in Building A, Room 4. It houses the Mason Archaeological Collection, and materials and
equipment to support and strengthen the instructional program of the College through the provision of print and
non-print media.
MASON ARCHAEOLOGICAL COLLECTION – The Hamilton Campus Library houses the Mason Archaeological
Collection courtesy of the Marion County Historical Society. This is the personal collection of Dr. Robert Mason.
The artifacts were either found by Dr. Mason personally or obtained from other individuals. There is no supporting
provenience documentation for the collection, but a majority of the artifacts seem to be from Northwest Alabama
and from adjoining Northeast Mississippi.
JASPER CAMPUS LIBRARY
1411 Indiana Avenue
Jasper, AL 35501
The library is located in the Irma Dilg Nicholson Library Building. It houses the Alabama Collection, and has
materials and equipment to support and strengthen the instructional program of the College through the provision
of print and non-print media.
ALABAMA COLLECTION – The Jasper Campus Library houses the Alabama Collection which is a specialized
collection of books and other materials documenting the history, geography, and culture of the State of Alabama.
Also included in the collection are books about Alabama and/or books by Alabama authors.
SUMITON CAMPUS LIBRARY
101 State Street
Sumiton, AL 35148
The library is located in Building 1200 on the first floor. It houses materials and equipment to support and
strengthen the instructional program of the College through the provision of print and non-print media.
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4
INFORMATION ABOUT THE BSCC LIBRARIES
The BSCC College Libraries offer an up-to-date collection of materials selected to meet course objectives, daily
assignments, and reading interests for students, faculty, staff, and the community. The College Library staff is
available to assist with any assignments or questions. Please do not hesitate to ask questions of any member of the
College Library staff–including student assistants.
CIRCULATION POLICY
• A BSCC Identification Card, with a barcode, is required to check out books.
• BSCC Identification Cards are made at designated times in the office of Student Services on all of the BSCC
Campuses.
• Students may check out up to five (5) books at a time for two weeks at a time with two (2) renewals.
• Books may be renewed by phone, in person, and/or by email.
• Library materials are to be returned on the expiration date of the loan period and/or when requested by the
Library staff.
• Library users are responsible for all items checked out in their name.
• No Library materials maybe taken from the Library without proper checkout and/or authorization.
• Reference books cannot be checked out and are in-library use only.
• Media/Audiovisual materials cannot be checked out by students and are in-library use only. Faculty and staff
members can check out Media/Audiovisual materials
Non-students and/or non-BSCC employee
s may use the Library to check out materials using
a valid Alabama Driver’s License for identification.
OVERDUE FINES
Overdue fines are $0.25 per day per book, excluding weekends and college holidays.
Overdue notices are sent by mail and/or e-mail every two weeks.
LOST AND/OR DAMAGED ITEMS
If books are lost or damaged, all replacement costs must be paid before additional books can be borrowed. All
accounts with the College Library must be cleared at the end of the semester. Students will not be allowed to register
for a new semester until all books are returned and all fines are paid.
HOLD REQUESTS
Library users may request a circulation item be held if the item has been checked out and is unavailable by asking a
member of the BSCC Library Staff. When the item is returned, the library user will be notified by mail, email, and/or
telephone.
RESERVE MATERIALS
Books and other materials for special assignments and/or required reading are placed “On Reserve” by the faculty
to ensure that all the students have an opportunity to use them. Reserve materials must be requested at the
circulation desk.
COPYING AND/OR PRINTING SERVICES
Self-service copiers, with enlarging and reduction features, and printers are located in each BSCC Library.
Black and white copies and print-outs are $0.10 cents per page.
Color copies and print-outs are $0.25 cents per page.
SCANNING AND FAXING SERVICES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE
AT EVERY COLLEGE LIBRARY LOCATION BY REQUEST
Revised-July 2019
5
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARIES – INTERLIBRARY LOAN
Interlibrary loan is the process by which a library requests materials from another library.
The purpose of an interlibrary loan is to obtain material not available in the user's campus library.
ELIGIBILITY
Interlibrary
loan service is available to all current BSCC students, faculty, and staff.
Guest borrowers and alumni should utilize the interlibrary loan service available at their local
public library.
BORROWING RESTRICTIONS
Each lib
rary determines which materials will or will not be loaned.
Most books, magazines, and journal articles can be requested through interlibrary loan.
The following material may not be borrowable through interlibrary loan:
Material already available in the local collection
Textbooks
Whole issues of a periodical or journal
Reference books
Rare, fragile, or unique items that may be difficult to replace
Articles available in full text in periodical databases
Newly published best sellers
Theses and dissertations
Audiovisual materials such as CDs, videos, and DVDs
Other material as determined by the lending library or library staff
COPYRIGHT ISSUES
Copyrigh
t law limits the number of photocopied articles that can be borrowed through interlibrary loan. Once
the library’s limit has been reached, the library staff will inform the library user where the closest library
owning the title is located.
INITIATING INTERLIBRARY LOAN REQUESTS
Borrowers are expected to check the BSCC Library catalog and periodical databases prior to initiating a
request to make sure the item is not available in the local collection.
Go to the BSCC Library website and fill out an online BSCC Interlibrary Loan Book Request or BSCC
Interlibrary
Loan Journal Article Request. Each item requested must have its own form. Give complete and
accurate information. Student requests are limited to five (5) items per month. The length of time needed
to obtain materials varies. Most items can be obtained in about business 10 days. There are times when
materials arrive earlier and times when it may take longer. Please plan accordingly.
Note: Faculty, staff, and students enrolled at other institutions of higher education are encouraged
to explore
the availability of collections and services at their place of study.
NOTIFICATIONS AND USE OF ITEMS
When the interlibrary loan item arrives, the library staff will contact the library patron, and the item may be
picked up at the Circulation desk. The loan period and any restrictions are set by the lending library. The
loan period is usually about three (3) weeks. Interlibrary loan items must be returned to the Circulation desk.
Photocopies of articles do not have to be returned and maybe kept by the library user. Patrons are
responsible for any damaged or lost materials. Abuse of interlibrary loan policies by any patron will result
in suspension of all library privileges.
Revised-July 2019
6
RENEWALS
Interlibrary Loan Renewals may or may not be granted depending on the policy of the lending library.
Renewal requests must be made at least four (4) business days before the due date.
CHARGES
In genera
l, there is no charge for Interlibrary Loans. The College Libraries make every effort to borrow from
libraries that do not charge; however, there may be cases when this is not possible. If there will be a charge
for an Interlibrary Loan Item, the Library Staff will notify the library user before processing the request. The
library user is responsible for all costs incurred.
RECIPROCAL BORROWING AGREEMENTS
BSCC studen
ts, faculty, and staff members may use the following libraries upon presenting their BSCC
identification card:
• Athens State University – Athens, AL
• Birmingham-Southern College – Birmingham, AL
• Jefferson State Community College – Birmingham, AL
• Lawson State Community College – Bessemer, AL and Birmingham, AL
• Miles College – Fairfield, AL
• University of Alabama at Birmingham – Birmingham, AL
Revised-July 2019
7
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARIES – CIRCULATION SERVICES
ONLINE PUBLIC ACCESS CATALOG
The Bevill State Libraries use the Atriuum Automated System for the card catalog. The following inserts show
how the screen will appear on the computer.
From the campus library homepage, select the library you wish to search from the Library QuickLinks:
The next screen is
the basic search screen. Enter the word or search term you wish to search. A KEYWORD
search is the default search mechanism, and may be faster if you do not have specific information. If you wish to
search by AUTHOR, TITLE, or SUBJECT, click the appropriate button. An AUTHOR, TITLE, or SUBJECT search
is good to use when you know specific information. Feel free to ask the librarian for specific subject headings.
Advanced searches can be done using the “Expert” search option.
The search system is extremely spelling sensitive, so if you do not obtain results when you execute your search,
please check your spelling.
Revised-July 2019
8
You will then see a list of your search results. From here, you may look at the detail of each particular item. The
shelf status (whether the item is on the shelf or checked out) will display to the right.
Revised-July 2019
9
By selecting one of the titles from the results list, you will see more detail regarding the item. The author and title
information is given, as is the call number and other bibliographic information. From here, you can select
“Summary” to see the information about the item in a card-catalog format.
From the Holdings screen, you can place an item that is checked out on reserve by clicking on the reserve
butt
on.
If you cannot find the materials you are looking for, please ask a Library staff member for assistance.
Revised-July 2019
Introduction to Call Numbers
The Bevill State Community College Library uses the Library of Congress classification system for shelving
books. The Library of Congress classification system assigns a unique call number to a book which acts
like an address which tells us the book’s exact location on the shelf. Just as a piece of mail needs all of
the correct information (i.e. house number, apartment number, zip code, etc.,) in order to be delivered,
a book has multiple lines that must be read correctly in order to “deliver” it to the proper place on the
shelf.
Example: QB This line describes the main subject of the book. Astronomy
43.3 This line describes the precise subject of the book. General Astronomy
.S425 This line represents the author. Seeds, Michael A.
2004 This line states the year the book was published. 2004
THE SOUL OF THE NIGHT
RAYMO
QB
43.2
.R39
2005
The Scientific American Book of
ASTRONOMY
QB
43.2
.S38
1999
LYONS
PRESS
UNCOMMON SENSE ANTHONY AVENI
UNDERSTANDING NATURE’S TRUTHS ACROSS TIME AND CULTURE
QB
43.3
.A94
2006
U
U
U
N
N
N
I
I
I
V
V
V
E
E
E
R
R
R
S
S
S
E
E
E
THE SOLAR SYSTEM
ROGER A. FREEDMAN
WILLIAM J. KAUFFMAN III
QB
43.3
.F743
2002
KIDGE
R
Astronomical Enigmas
QB
43.3
.K54
200
Seeds
Astronomy The Solar System and Beyond
Third Edition
QB
43.3
.S425
2003
Unsöld
Baschek
THE NEW COSMOS
5
th
Edition
QB
43.3
.U5713
2001
KRUSE and DIECKVOSS
THE STARS
QB
44
.K713
NOURSE
QB
44
.N73
NINE
PLANETS
HARPER & ROW
ISAAC
ASIMOV
THE UNIVERSE
REVISED EDITION
WALKER
QB
44.2
.A84
1971
Jastrow
UNTIL THE SUN DIES
QB
44.2
.J37
1977
STRANGE UNIVERSE BOB BREMAN
QB
44.3
.B37
2003
SIR PATRICK MOORE
THE
AMATEUR ASTRONOMER
TWELFTH EDITION
QB
44.3
.M658
2006
Revised-July 2019
I. Lines 1 & 2 –Items are shelved according to alphabetical and numerical order.
In order to put items on the shelf correctly, the first step is to put the items into alphabetical and numerical
order. Do this by comparing the first two lines with items that are already shelved.
The first two lin
es are straightforward, but once we get to the third line the decimal system comes into play.
II. Line 3 – This line is considered a decimal point.
The third line of the call number is to be treated as a decimal which means that longer, larger numbers are not
always last. In addition to the decimal, the third line number is also accompanied by at least one letter. These
letters are to be put into alphabetical order and then the number afterwards is taken into consideration.
Often items w
ill have the same or very similar call numbers. When this happens the fourth or fifth line will
determine the placement of the item.
H
91
.D78
Harper
& Row
HB
501
.B235
2005
Dial
Press
HC
102.5
.A2
S43
HD
38.5
.S547
2005
HE
38.5
.F25
1994
ama
com
HF
1008
.N33
1987
SECOND
EDITION
HF
5548
.A45
2006
HG
179
.M24
A
WALKER
PS
3525
.A14
Z9
HARDCOURT
BRACE
JOVANOVICH
PS
3525
.A1435
Z368
Coward
PS
3525
.A144
Z4
lic Girlhood
PS
3525
.A7
Z55
Alfred A. Knopf
PS
3525
.A712
Z40
PS
3525
.A72
Z4
Revised-July 2019
III. Line 4 and Beyond
The fourth line and beyond of a call number are dictated by two rules.
The first rule is that nothing comes before something. This means that when reading a call number on the spine
of a book and discovering that the first three lines of the call numbers are identical, the fourth line will dictate
the placement of the item on the shelf. When deciding where to place an item with a call number that has no
fourth line versus an item that does have a call number with a fourth line, the item with no information will
come first.
The second
rule when reading the fourth line and beyond is that these numbers are still read like decimal points
even though there is not a visible decimal point printed on the call number.
Remember to keep basic rules in mind, work carefully from line to line or digit to digit, and follow standard
alphabetical and numerical order. If you keep these rules in mind accurate shelving should be easy.
Please see th
e following page for specific examples.
RAZILLER
N
553
.D4
ABRAMS
N
553
.D4
F6
ND
553
.D33
P7
ND
553
.D33
P7
c. 2
ND
553
.P5
E5
ND
553
.P5
E5
1975
Harper
& Row
HC
91
.B235
E2
HC
91
.B235
E265
Dial
Press
HC
91
.B235
F27
HD
38.5
.S547
2005
Z82
HD
38.5
.S547
2005
Z9
ama
com
HF
1008
.N33
1987
SECOND
EDITION
HF
1008
.N33
2006
A
HF
1008
.N33
A312
Revised-July 2019
IV. Specific Call Number Examples
Example 1 – Vo
lumes and Indexes Example 2 – Decimal Points in the middle of a line.
Example 3 – On
e trick for reading decimals correctly.
Example 4 – An
other trick for reading call numbers correctly is to read the number line by line until a
difference is encountered.
ND
653
.S2
v. 1
ND
653
.S2
v. 2
ND
653
.S2
Index
Volumes are shelved in numerical
order with Indexes at the end.
QA
76.74
.I9
S42.7
2009
QA
76.74
.I9
S42.5
2009
QA
76.73
.P2
K44
1982
When decimal numbers appear in
the middle of a line, order the
numbers in regular numeric order.
TX
34
.K2
2006
TX
34
.K29
1984
TX
34
.K183
1964
TX
34
.K19
1956
Sometimes adding zeros to the decimal in question will clarify where the item should be.
TX
34
.K200
2006
TX
34
.K290
1984
TX
34
.K183
1964
TX
34
.K190
1956
QK
494
.S23
1985
QK
494.1
.T9
1965
QK
494
.S23
1985
QK
494.1
.T9
1965
In this example the second line is needed.
QH
301
.Y22
E7
2002
QH
301
.Y22
E7
2003
QH
301
.Y22
E7
2002
QH
301
.Y22
E7
2003
QH
301
.Y22
E7
2002
QH
301
.Y22
E7
2003
QH
301
.Y22
E7
2002
QH
301
.Y22
E7
2003
In this example the deciding line turns out to be the last line.
In this example the first
line is enough.
QH
199
.L421
1985
QK
474.4
.M2
1999
Revised-July 2019
BEVILL STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE LIBRARIES
GUIDE TO THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
A.
General Works
AE - Encyclopedias
AI - Indexes
AM - Museums
AP - Periodicals
AS - Academics
AY - Yearbooks, almanacs
B.
Philosophy,
Psychology, Religion
B - History & systems of
philosophy
BC - Logic
BD - Speculative philosophy
BF - Psychology
BH - Aesthetics
BJ - Ethics
BL - Religions, mythology,
rationalism
BM - Judaism
BP - Islam, Bahaism,
Theosophy
BR - Christianity (General)
BS - The Bible
BT - Doctrinal theology
BV - Practical theology
BX - Denominations and
sects
C.
Auxiliary Sciences
of History
CB - History of civilization &
culture
CC - Archaeology (General)
CD - Diplomacy, archives,
seals
CE - Chronology
CJ - Numismatics
CN - Epigraphy
CR - Heraldry
CS - Genealogy
CT - Biography (General)
D.
History - General
& Eastern
D - History (General)
DA - Great Britain
DB - Austria,
Czechoslovakia, Hungary
DC - France
DD - Germany
DE - Mediterranean, Greco-
Roman world
DF - Greece
DG - Italy
DH - DJ: The Benelux
DK - Russia
DL - Northern Europe
DP - Spain, Portugal
DQ - Switzerland
DR - Eastern Europe; Turkey
DS - Asia
DS520-DS689: Southeast
Asia
DT - Africa
DU - Oceania, Australia, N.Z.
DX - Gypsies
E & F. History -
Western Hemisphere
E - America (General), U.S.
F1-F975 – U.S. local history
F1001-F1140 - Canada
F1201-F1392 - Mexico
F1401-F3799 - Central and
South American, the
Caribbean area
G.
Geography,
Anthropology,
Recreation
G - Atlases, Globes, Maps
GA - Mathematical
geography, cartography
GB - Physical geography
GC - Oceanography
GF - Human ecology
GN - Anthropology
GR - Folklore
GT - Manners and customs
GV - Sports and recreation
GV1580-GV1799 – Dance
H.
Social Sciences
and Business
H - Social Sciences (General)
HA - Statistics
HB - Economic theory
HC - Economic history
HD - Land, agriculture,
communication
HE - Transportation
HF - Commerce
HG - Finance
HJ - Public finance
HM - Sociology
HN - Social history
HQ - Social groups; the
family, marriage, women
HS - Societies and clubs
HV - Social pathology,
criminology, welfare
HX - Socialism, communism,
anarchism
J. Political Science
J - Official documents
JA - Collections and general
works
JC - Political theory
JF - Constitutional history
JK - U.S. constitutional
history
JS - Local government
JX - International law &
relations
L.
Education
L - Education (General)
LA - History of education
LB - Theory and practice
LC - Special aspects
LD - Individual U.S.
institutions
LH – College/school
publications
LJ - Student fraternities &
societies
LT - Textbooks (General)
Revised-July 2019
M.
Music
M - Music (General)
ML - Literature of music
MT - Music instruction and
study
N.
Fine Arts
N - Visual arts (General)
NA - Architecture
NB - Sculpture
NC - Drawing, design,
illustration
ND - Painting
NE - Print media
NK - Decorative arts, applied
arts
NX - Arts in general
P.
Language and Literature
P - Linguistics
PA - Greek and Latin
PB - Modern European
languages; Celtic languages
PC - Romance languages
PD - Old Germanic and
Scandinavian languages
PE - English language
PF - Dutch, Flemish, German
languages
PG - Slavic languages and
literature
PJ - Middle Eastern
languages and literature
PK - Indo-Iranian languages
and literature
PL - East Asian, African, and
Oceanic languages and
literature
PM - American Indian;
artificial languages
PN - Literature, literary
history and collections
PN1993-PN1996 - Motion
Pictures
PQ - Romance literature
PR - English literature
PS - American literature
PT - Germanic literature
PZ - Children's literature
Q.
Science
Q - Science (General)
QA - Mathematics
QB - Astronomy
QC - Physics
QD - Chemistry
QE - Geology
QH - Natural History
(General)
QK - Botany
QL - Zoology
QM - Human Anatomy
QP - Physiology
QR - Microbiology
R.
Medicine
R - Medicine
RA - Public aspects of
medicine
RB - Pathology
RC - Internal Medicine
RD - Surgery
RE - Ophthalmology
RF - Otorhinolaryngology
RG - Gynecology and
obstetrics
RJ - Pediatrics
RK - Dentistry
RL - Dermatology
RM - Therapeutics;
pharmacology
RS - Pharmacy and materia
medica
RT - Nursing
RX - Homeopathy
RZ - Other systems of
medicine
S.
Agriculture
S - Agriculture (General)
SB - Plant culture
SD - Forestry
SF - Animal culture
SH - Aquaculture, fisheries,
fishing
SK – Hunting
T.
Technology
T - Technology (General)
TA - Engineering (General)
TC - Hydraulic engineering
TD - Environmental
technology
TE - Railroad
engineering TG - Bridge
engineering TH - Building
engineering
TJ - Mechanical engineering
and machinery
TK - Electrical engineering;
electronics
TL - Motor vehicles;
aeronautics; astronautics
TN - Mining engineering;
metallurgy
TP - Chemical technology
TR - Photography
TS - Manufactures
TT - Handicrafts; arts and
crafts
TX - Home economics;
cooking
U.
Military Service
UA - Armies
UB - Military administration
UC - Maintenance and
transportation
UD - Infantry
UE - Calvary; armored and
mechanized Calvary
UF - Artillery
UG - Military engineering
UH - Other services
V.
Naval Science
VA - Navies
VB - Naval administration
VC - Naval maintenance
VD - Naval seamen
VE - Marines
VF - Naval ordinance
VG - Minor services of navies
VK - Navigation. Merchant
marine
VM - Naval architecture.
Shipbuilding. Marine
engineering.
Z. Library Science
If you need assistance locating library materials,
please ask a member of the BSCC Library Staff.
Revised-July 2019
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARIES – GOVERNMENT DOCUMENTS
Government Documents Call Numbers
Bevill State Community College’s Fayette Campus Library is a selective depository of federal government
documents. In 1979, Congressman Tom Bevill announced that the Brewer State Junior College Learning Resources
Center had been designated as a selective Depository for Federal Government Documents.
These documents are catalogued using a SuDocs number. The SuDocs or call number consists
of a combination
of letters and numbers employing periods, slashes, colons, and hyphens. Example: Y1.1/8:99- 309P/2.
AGING ADMINISTRATION
Hea
lth and Human Services Dept.
Washington,DC 20201
Entry number ------------ 886
-515
SuDocs number --------------------------------------------------------HE23.3002:Ar7
Author ------------------------------ Yelin, Edward H.
Title --------------------------------------------- Arthritis Policy and the elderly/Edward H. Yelin Jane
S. Kramer, Wallace V. Epstein.—San Francisco, Calif. :
Aging Health Policy Center, University of California,
1983.
39 leaves; 28 cm. Distributed to depository libraries
in microfiche. “Funded in part by the U.S.
Administration on Aging grant no. ~AP(XX)3.”
Bibliography: leaves 36-39. Item 447 —A-(microfiche)
Subject headings ------------------------------1.Arteries—inflammation. 2.Aged—Medical care—
United States. 3.Aged—Government policy—United
States. 1.Kramer, Jane S.(Jane Susan), 1956- II.Epstein,
Wallace V. III.University of California, San Francisco.
Aging Health Policy Center. IV. United States.
Administration on Aging. V. Title. OCLC 12745932.
The
SuDocs number is your “call number” for locating an item in the government documents stacks.
Revised-July 2019
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARIES
MULTI-MEDIA SERVICES
Multi-media items, such as DVDs, are available for use in the BSCC Libraries. BSCC students cannot check out
these items but may use these items in the library. BSCC faculty and staff members may check out these items.
Multi-media items can be located like all other library materials, through use of the online catalog. Please see
the library staff for assistance in finding these materials.
REFERENCE COLLECTION
Reference books are books containing specific authoritative information and are not meant to be read cover-to-
cover. Examples of these books are items such as dictionaries, handbooks, and encyclopedias. Books of this
type are shelved together by call number in a special section of the Library called the Reference Collection.
Information in a reference book, which may be a single or multi-volume, is usually presented alphabetically or
topically, often with thorough indexes at the end of the work and instructions for use of the book at the beginning.
Reference books may not be checked out because they are needed by librarians and library users to answer
questions.
DICTIONARIES
Dictionaries are either single-volume or multi-volume reference works containing brief explanatory entries for
terms and topics related to a specific subject or field of inquiry, usually arranged alphabetically. The most
common use of a dictionary is to look up a meaning, or to check for the proper spelling of a word. The entries in
a dictionary are usually shorter than those contained in an encyclopedia on the same subject. Dictionaries cover
much more information than just meanings and correct spelling. Many dictionaries also give the pronunciation,
usage, and origin of words.
There are a variety of dictionaries available:
Þ ABRIDGED DICTIONARI
ES are commonly called "desk" dictionaries. An abridged dictionary provides a
limited selection of words, less information in each entry, and contains words that are used most often. As
a result, abridged dictionaries are limited in scope. Two examples of abridged dictionaries are: American
Heritage Dictionary of the English Language and Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary.
Þ UNABRIDGED DICTIONARIES attempt to be comprehensive including any and all words in a language.
Two examples of unabridged dictionaries are: Oxford English Dictionary and Webster’s New International
Dictionary of the English Language.
Þ SPECIALIZED DICTIONARIES cover special subject areas and include vocabulary used in the subject
area. To locate a specialized dictionary on a particular subject, look in the Online Library catalog under the
subject. Example: HORTICULTURE--DICTIONARIES, or SPANISH—DICTIONARIES. Two examples of
specialized dictionaries are: Dictionary of American History and Dictionary of Foreign Phrases and
Abbreviations.
ENCYCLOPEDIAS
Encyclopedias can be a single book or a numbered set of books containing authoritative summary information
about a variety of topics in the form of short essays, usually arranged alphabetically by headword or classified
in some manner. An entry may be signed or unsigned, with or without illustration and may contain a list of
references for further reading. Headwords and text are usually revised periodically for publication in a new
edition. In a multi-volume encyclopedia, indexes are usually located at the end of the last volume.
There are two kinds of encyclopedias: general and speci
alized.
Þ GENERAL ENCYCLOPEDIAS give information on a broad range of topics. These general encyclopedias
usually come in multiple volumes with a comprehensive index. (It is a good idea to use the INDEX first
when searching for information). Two examples of general encyclopedias are: Collier’s Encyclopedia and
Encyclopedia Britannica.
Þ SPECIALIZED ENCYCLOPEDIAS give information on a particular subject. To locate a specialized
encyclopedia on a particular subject, look in the Online Library catalog under the subject. Example: ART –
ENCYCLOPEDIAS or MUSIC – ENCYCLOPEDIAS. Two examples of specialized encyclopedias are:
Encyclopedia of World Art and International Encyclopedia of the Social Sciences.
Revised-July 2019
ALMANACS
Originally, an almanac was a book listing the days, weeks, and months of the year, and providing information
about festivals, holidays, astronomical phenomena, etc. Today’s almanac is an annual compendium of practical
dates, facts, and statistics, current and/or retrospective, often arranged in tables to facilitate comparison. The
content of an almanac can be general or related to a specific subject or academic discipline. Two examples of
almanacs are: Guinness Book of World Records and World Almanac and Book of Facts.
YEARBOOKS
A yearbook is an annual documentary, historical or memorial compendium of facts, photographs, statistics, etc.,
about the events of the preceding year, often limited to a specific country, institution, discipline, or subject. Two
examples of yearbooks are: Statesman’s Yearbook and Statistical Abstract of the United States.
HANDBOOKS
A handbook is a single-volume reference book of compact size which provides concise factual information
on a specific subject, organized systematically for quick and easy access. Two examples of handbooks are:
Occupational Outlook Handbook and CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics.
VERTICAL FILE
Some of the BSCC Campus Libraries have a Vertical File. A vertical file contains loose clippings from
newspapers, pamphlets, and magazines on a variety of topics. Labeled folders containing the clippings are
arranged alphabetically by subject. Vertical File materials may be checked out for one week. The BSCC Library
staff can assist in locating materials in the Vertical File.
PERIODICAL COLLECTION
A periodical is a published work which appears "periodically", such as newspapers, magazines ("popular"), and
journals ("scholarly"). Such sources will provide more up-to-date information than books. Each periodical has its
own distinctive title and contains a collection of articles, editorials, reviews, columns, short stories, poems, or
other short works written by more than one contributor. Periodicals are usually issued in softcover format, more
than once, and generally at regular stated intervals of less than a year. Although each issue is complete in and
of itself, the relationship to preceding issues is indicated by enumeration, usually issue number and volume
number printed on the front cover. Content is controlled by an editor or editorial board. Two examples of
magazines (“popular”) are: Essence and People. Two examples of periodicals (“scholarly”) are: Alabama Law
Review and Alabama Heritage.
ONLINE RESOURCES
The BSCC College Libraries offer access to the Alabama Virtual Library, databases, LibGuides, and links to
other online resources through the Library webpage. The Library Staff members can assist library users in
utilizing these resources and provide research assistance.
ALABAMA VIRTUAL LIBRARY
The AVL databases are periodically updated and additional ones are added
Please utilize the AVL link on the Library webpage for access
The
Alabama Virtual Library provides all citizens of the State of Alabama with online access to essential
library and information resources. It is primarily a group of online databases that have magazine, journal,
and newspaper articles for research. Through the AVL, an equitable core of information sources is
available to every citizen in Alabama, raising the level of excellence in schools and communities across
the state. Each College Library location can issue an AVL card to students, faculty, staff, and community
patrons for home access, if needed.
Revised-July 2019
DATABASES
The College Libraries provide access to several online databases for research for its library users.
• African-American History Online
• Bloom’s Literary Reference Online
• CINAHL
• Credo Resources
• Exploring Career Clusters Online
• Genetics and Evolution Online
• Health Reference Center
• The Human Body: How It Works Online
• Issues & Controversies
• Modern Language Association (MLA)
• Top Careers with a Two-Year Degree Online
• Writer’s Reference Center
LIBGUIDES
Please access LibGuides by going to the BSCC website
(www.bscc.edu) and then accessing the Library webpage
LibGuides showcase the College Library’s collections and services into a one-stop online subject resource,
organizing core and relevant resources into one 24-hour accessible webpage. The subject guides pull together
all types of information about a particular subject and/or course of study. Each LibGuide contains information
about all of the College Library's resources (such as books, databases, eBooks, multimedia, etc.) and provide
additional online resources such as RSS feeds and videos.
Revised-July 2019
Bevill State Community College Libraries
Library Use and Conduct Policy
The
resources and services provided by the BSCC Libraries are designed to support the College’s programs of
studies, faculty, and students in their scholarly, research, and creative endeavors, and to support community
patrons in their informational needs and intellectual inquiries. The BSCC Libraries are an instructional component
of the College’s programs in which patrons come for individual study/research, quiet conversation, collaboration,
and instruction. Library users should demonstrate acceptable behavior and respect for the needs of others in this
learning environment.
• The conversations of study groups should not disturb others. Library Staff may ask groups to move to
another building if the group is making too much noise.
• Library users who are disturbed or distracted by the noise or the behavior of those individuals around
them should bring the matter to the attention of the Library Staff and/or consider moving to another
area of the Library.
• Sounds from any personal electronic devices, such as cell phones, laptops, IPods, and MP3 players,
should be restricted to user headphones and must be inaudible to other library users.
• At the discretion of the Library Staff, disruptive and/or excessively noisy library users will be asked to
leave the Library.
General Rules of Conduct
• Individuals, either library users and/or BSCC employees, must not engage in verbal and/or physical
abuse, intimidation, sexual harassment or harassment on account of race, religion, ethnic, and/or
national background, gender, and/or sexual orientation.
• Library users engaging in vandalizing, altering, and/or damaging Library facilities, furniture and/or
equipment, including computer systems, networks, programs, and/or data, are in violation of Alabama
State Law and will be prosecuted to the full extent of that law.
• Library users are responsible for their personal property.
• Library users are required to leave the Library at closing and during emergency situations, and/or drills.
• Children, under the age of 16, should not be left unattended in the Library.
• Bicycles and/or skate boards cannot be brought in the Library.
• Only service animals, trained to assist persons with disabilities, are allowed in the Library.
• Firearms and/or other deadly weapons, explosives and/or explosive devices, and/or other dangerous
devices are not permitted in the Library.
• Library users must not interfere with a Library employee’s performance of his/her duties.
• Library users are not allowed to enter areas of the Library restricted to Library Staff.
Borrower’s Responsibilities
• Borrowers are responsible for materials checked out in their names. Overdue fines are charged to
encourage prompt returns and to ensure access to the collection for other borrowers.
• It is the responsibility of each borrower to maintain a current mailing address, telephone number and
email address in the college record.
• Borrowers should inform the Library if their ID/Library cards are lost or stolen.
• It is the responsibility of the borrower to note the time or date that material is due. Overdue notices are
sent as a courtesy. Failure to receive these notices does not remove the borrower’s obligation to return
material by the due date nor does it constitute grounds for reducing a borrower’s fine. If a borrower
plans to be out of town, he or she should return borrowed items or arrange with someone to receive
notices and return material(s).
Revised-July 2019
Priority Users
Bevill State Community College students, faculty, and staff have priority for accessing electronic resources and
using Library computers and equipment. Non-students and non-employees may be asked to limit their use of the
computers and equipment if others are waiting. Non-students and non-employees may also be asked to
relinquish the computer and equipment to BSCC students, faculty, or staff at any time.
Prohibited Conduct
Prohibited conduct includes, among other things, lewd or indecent conduct, threat of imminent physical harm,
sexual harassment, stalking, forgery, intentional disruption of college services, and damaging or destroying
college property. Similarly, there are prohibitions against illegal discrimination, including discriminatory
harassment and sexual harassment. Prohibited Conduct also applies to electronic forums.
BSCC Library resources are intended to be used for institutional and educational purposes and may not be used
for private or personal gain.
Library users must observe all laws relating to copyright, trademark, export, and intellectual property rights.
Noise and Cell Phones
• Library users must help to maintain a quiet environment and refrain from engaging in any behavior that
interferes with the normal use and operation of the Library by others.
• Cell phone conversations are prohibited in the Library. Ringers should be turned off. If a phone call
must be taken, please go outside the Library.
Food and Drink
• No food or drink is allowed in the computer lab areas of the College Libraries.
• No food of any kind is allowed in the College Libraries except at scheduled special library events.
• Non-alcoholic beverages such as bottled water and sodas with screw tops are allowed in the College
Libraries.
Intellectual Fre
edom/Censorship
The Bevill State Community College Libraries endorse the American Library Association (ALA) Library Bill of
Rights, The Freedom to Read, and Challenged Materials – An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights. See
www.ala.org for these documents.
Overdue and Hold Materials – Faculty and Staff Members
At the end of each semester, faculty overdue notices are emailed to faculty and/or staff members who have failed
to return books or other materials to the Library. Instructors are not charged fines; however faculty borrowing
privileges may be suspended when materials have not been returned after one academic year. Faculty and staff
members may place books, articles, and other materials on hold for one semester. After one semester, the hold
items will be re-shelved.
Donating Materials
Building a library collection depends on the careful selection and acquisition of materials as well as gifts of books,
periodicals, other library materials, and money. The BSCC Libraries welcome such gifts, provided they support
the teaching, research, and other needs of the College. Gifts of materials other than those previously mentioned
will be considered on an individual basis.
Acceptance of Gifts
The BSCC Libraries seek hardcover books as well as high quality paperback books of scientific, scholarly,
literary, and/or artistic substance. The College Libraries also accept other appropriate formats including multi-
media materials. We do not accept outdated textbooks (older than five years), popular magazines and/or mass
market paperbacks, U.S. government publications, miscellaneous issues and/or short runs of journals and
magazines, or outmoded formats of multi-media items (8-track, 5.25 inch computer disks, etc.).
Revised-July 2019
Ownership and Use of Gifts
Upon receipt, gifts become the possession of the BSCC Libraries. As owner, the College Libraries have the right
to determine retention, location, circulation, and all other considerations relating to storage, shelving, usage, and/
or disposition. The College Libraries usually add items that would be unique to their collections and items that
may serve as useful second copies. We will offer titles that are not well suited for our collections to other libraries
and agents in our local region.
Tax Information
The BSCC Libraries encourage donors to discuss prospective donations and appraisals with their attorneys
and/or other tax experts prior to making a donation. Attorneys and/or tax experts can best answer specific
questions about charitable contributions for gifts-in-kind.
Appraisals
The BSCC Libraries are unable to provide appraisals for gifts we receive. Appraisals are the responsibility of the
donor. We are able to create inventory lists for donations. The College Libraries will make an appropriate
acknowledgement for all gifts. As part of the receipt of acknowledgement, the libraries will provide a brief written
description of the donation.
Revised-July 2019
Bevill State Community College Libraries
Privacy and Confidentiality of Library Records
This document explains how the Bevill State Community College (BSCC) Libraries respect and protect the privacy
of library users when utilizing library resources.
The BSCC Libraries have a deep-rooted commitment to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all library users.
This commitment is in compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines, Bevill State Community College policies,
and is consistent with the American Library Association’s Code of Ethics.
Alabama Revised Statute 192.502 (23) exempts from disclosure under the open records law:
“The records of a library, including:
(a)
Circulation records, showing use of specific library material by a named person;
(b)
The name of the library patron together with the address or telephone number of the patron;
(c)
The electronic mail address of a patron.”
Privacy and Confidentiality Practices
A. Notice and Openness
• BSCC L
ibraries privacy and confidentiality practices are regularly reviewed with Library Staff and
student workers.
• The College Libraries avoid creating unnecessary records and retains necessary records in
compliance with records retention regulations.
B. Gathered and Retained Information
Info
rmation gathered and retained may include the following:
BSCC students and/or employees: The information required to have a library account is supplied
by AS400
information and/or the individual. This information is not retained when a student and/or employee leaves
BSCC once their account is in good standing.
•
Community users: Information is retained as long as the user has an account with the BSCC
Libraries.
•
Records of material checked out, charges owed, payments made.
•
Electronic access information.
•
Requests for interlibrary loans, and/or reference services.
C. Choice and Consent
If a
n individual provides private, personally identifiable information to the BSCC Libraries, the Libraries may
retain this information. The Libraries will keep all information confidential and will not sell, license, and/or
disclose personal information to any third party without consent, except to agents working on behalf of the
Library or unless BSCC Libraries are legally permitted to do so.
If BSCC Libraries provide a service for a library user’s convenience, the service may, in some way, lessen
the
Library’s ability to protect the privacy of an individual’s information and/or the confidentiality of information
about the utilization of library materials and services.
Revised-July 2019
In such situations, the BSCC Libraries will:
(1)
Provide the library user with a privacy warning regarding the service.
(2)
Make it possible for the library user to “opt in” or “opt out” of the service.
Example: The ability for a library user to track their own reading history and/or write reviews in the library
catalog. Such services are attached to a user’s library account, and may lessen the privacy to personal
information.
D. User Access and Responsibility
The libr
ary user is entitled to view their private, personally identifiable information and are responsible for
keeping their information accurate and up-to-date. The Libraries will explain the process for accessing and/or
updating users’ information on its website, and/or in person, upon request.
Data Integrity and Security
• The BSCC Libraries take reasonable steps to ensure data integrity and protect private, personally
identifiable information of the library users by electronically purging and/or manually shredding data
once the prescribed retention period has been completed.
• When the BSCC Libraries provide aggregate summary data for which private, personally
indefinable information is not needed; the data is deleted.
E. Third-Party Security
• BSCC Libraries ensure the Library’s contracts, licenses, and/or offsite computer service
arrangements reflect the College Library policies and legal obligations concerning user privacy and
confidentiality. Library agreements address appropriate restrictions on the use, aggregation,
dissemination, and sale of all information.
• When connecting to licensed databases outside the College Library, the Library releases only
information which authenticates users as registered BSCC Library borrowers. Nevertheless, users
must be aware, when accessing remote sites, there are limits to the amount of privacy protection
the College Library can provide.
• Some library users may choose to take advantage of RSS feeds from the online library catalog,
public blogs, hold, and/or overdue notices via e-mail and/or text message, and similar services
which send personal information related to library use via public communication networks. These
library users must also be aware the College Library has limited ability to protect the privacy of this
information once it is outside the Library’s control.
F. Cookies
Library users,
accessing the BSCC Library website, will need to enable cookies in order to access a number
of the online resources available. The Library’s computer servers use cookies solely to verify a person is an
authorized user and to allow access to licensed library resources and/or to customize web services to the
user’s specification. Cookies sent by Library’s computer servers will disappear soon after the library user’s
computer browser is closed.
G. Security Measures
BSCC Librar
ies procedures limit access to data and/or data for unauthorized purposes through the use of
passwords and storage of data on secure computer servers and/or computers which are inaccessible from a
modem or network connection.
H. Library Employee/Staff Access to Personal Information
The BSCC L
ibraries Staff may access personal data stored in the Library’s computer system only for the
purpose of performing their assigned library duties. The Library Staff is prohibited from disclosing private
personally identifiable data to any other party, unless required by law and/or to fulfill a library user’s service
request. The College Library does not sell, lease, and/or give users’ personal information to companies,
governmental agencies, or individuals except as required by law and/or with a user’s authorization.
Revised-July 2019
I. Enforcement and Redress
If a
library user has a question, concern, and/or complaint about the BSCC Library’s handling of their private,
personally identifiable information, please file a written comment with the College-wide Assistant Dean for
Library and Learning Resources. The BSCC Libraries will respond in a timely manner and may conduct a
privacy investigation and/or review of its practices and procedures.
The College-wide Assistant Dean for Library and Learning Resources is custodian of all library records and
is the only party authorized to receive or comply with public-records requests and/or inquiries from law
enforcement officers. Additionally, as custodian, the College-wide Assistant Dean for Library and Learning
Resources may delegate this authority to designated members of the BSCC Libraries management team.
The College-wide Assistant Dean for Library and Learning Resources may confer with the Director of Facilities
and Security, the Dean of Instruction, the Dean of Students, and/or the Executive Vice President before
determining the proper response to any request for records. BSCC will provide local, state, and/or federal
government authorities with private, personally identifiable information only when it is legal to do so. The
College Library Staff is trained to refer any and all law enforcement inquiries to the College-wide Assistant
Dean for Library and Learning Resources.
J. Illegal Activity is Prohibited and Not Protected
In
accordance with BSCC Policies, library users may not use any BSCC resources to commit illegal actions.
This statement provides the BSCC Libraries the right to enforce behavior rules, protect all library facilities,
network, and/or equipment from harm, and/or prevent its use for illegal purposes. The College Libraries can
electronically monitor public computers, and/or external access to its network and reserves the right to do so.
The Library Staff is authorized to take immediate action to protect the security of library users, staff, facilities,
computers, and network including, but not limited to, contacting law enforcement authorities and providing
information to identify the individual(s) perpetrating a violation.
Revised-July 2019
BSCC CAMPUS LIBRARIES – EVALUATING RESOURCES
Evaluating Print Reference Resources
Every source you consider for your paper should be evaluated according to the following set of criteria. Keep in
mind that this will be a quick, common sense examination of your prospective sources, where you determine
the relevancy of the source for your research needs. It does not take the place of the more thorough analysis of
sources, but should be used as a selection/deselection tool. Consider the following.
1.
Look at the date of publication.
o
If your topic is a current controversy, make sure the publication dates are recent enough
to be abreast of the controversy.
o
In many cases, this will limit you to periodical articles as books on the topic may be
dated.
2.
Look at the place of publication and the name of the publisher.
o
Some topics are geographically associated with certain areas of the country or world and
the place of publication may be important.
o
Ask yourself if the publisher is a reputable one. Your professor or librarian will be able to
help you ascertain this.
3.
If evaluating a book, look at the Table of Contents. Does the book cover your topic?
4.
Within a book or periodical article, look for the following features:
o
Bibliographic Citations
o
Footnotes
o
Appendices
o
Glossary Information
o
An Index
o
Charts, Tables, Graphs
o
These features are all designed to lead you to additional sources of information and to
pinpoint appropriate information within the text or article.
o
If these features are not present, does that affect the overall quality of the source?
5.
Look for clues within the text to help you identify important information.
6.
Read the book jacket, if available, and scan the introductory material to help you determine the
usefulness for your topic.
7.
Ask yourself:
o
Does the information in this source answer one of my research questions?
o
Does the information in this source further my understanding of my topic?
o
Is this source usable and adequate and does it fit in with my other sources?
Complex Analysis, Evaluation of Sources
Once you have determined the overall relevancy of your sources, you will probably be left with 10 to 15 sources
for your paper. These are the sources which you must evaluate and analyze in depth. The following are some
questions to consider. This type of examination may seem difficult and time consuming at first, but the results
far outweigh the effort put forth. In fact, many professors require annotated bibliographies as part of the research
paper. These are the type of questions which provide the answers which form the annotated bibliography.
1.
Who is the author?
o
What is the author’s position, occupation, education, etc.?
o
Is the author qualified, or not, to write this work?
o
To help you answer these questions, you may find the following reference sources
helpful.
•
Contemporary Authors
•
Who’s Who in America
•
A variety of directory reference sources
Revised-July 2019
o
Ask a librarian for help in locating these sources.
2.
What is the author’s purpose for writing this book/article?
o
In books, this is often specified on the book jacket or in the introductory material.
o
In articles, an abstract or an introductory section may indicate this.
3.
To what audience is the author writing?
o
Is it intended for the general public, scholars, professionals, etc.?
o
Is the audience reflected in the author’s style of writing or presentation?
o
Does the author’s research include footnotes and bibliographies?
o
The following sources may help you answer these questions.
•
Book Review Digest
•
Katz Magazines for Libraries
•
Encyclopedia of Associations
Ask a librarian for help in locating these sources.
4.
Does the author have a bias or make assumptions upon which the rationale of the publication or
the research rests?
5.
Is the research based on facts or opinions?
6.
Does the author use inflammatory words or phrases? Profanity?
7.
Does the author oversimplify?
8.
Does the author use misleading or deceptive arguments such as scare tactics, testimonials,
generalizations, categorical statements, exaggerations, and the like?
9.
Are there fallacies in arguments and reasoning such as proof by selected instances, unstated
assumptions, and bandwagon persuasion techniques?
10.
Does the author use stereotypes or ethnocentric arguments?
11.
What methods of obtaining data or conducting research were employed by the author?
a. Is the article/book based on personal opinion or experience, interviews, library research,
questionnaires, laboratory experiments, case studies, standardized personality tests, etc.?
12.
What conclusions does the author arrive at?
13.
Does the author satisfactorily justify the conclusions from the research or experience? Why or
why not?
14.
How does this study compare with similar studies? Is it in tune with or in opposition to conventional
wisdom, established scholarship, professional practice, government policy, and the like?
15.
Are there significant attachments or appendixes, such as charts, maps, bibliographies, photos,
documents, tests, or questionnaires? If not, should there be?
16.
Do the date of publication and/or the date of research affect the validity of the work?
Does the age of the author at the time of the research affect the validity of the work?
Does the place of publication affect the research?
17.
If the research is from a journal article, is it from a reputable publisher?
o
Was the article written by an anonymous person on the staff, or by an independent
expert?
o
Is the journal refereed?
18.
If the research is from a book, is the publisher reputable? Does the publisher have a hidden
agenda?
19.
Is this author and research cited by others? Use bibliographies, footnotes, and citation indexes to
help ascertain this.
Evaluating Web-Based Resources
Content
o
Is there a credible, contactable authority responsible for site content and maintenance clearly
identified (viewpoint/bias)?
o
Is the information accurate?
o
Is the information useful in its present format? In an accessible and appropriate language for the
target population?
o
What is the depth and scope of the information? Is this even throughout all content at the site?
Revised-July 2019
o
Are sources cited? (And if so, are they reputable?)
o
Is there a hyperlinked webliography of cited sources?
o
Are external links for additional information included?
Timeliness
o
Is currency a top priority?
o
Is the date the source was last updated clearly shown?
o
How often is it updated?
o
Is it an “active” project that is still actively maintained?
o
Are dates of external link checks noted?
Ease of Use
o
Is it clear how to navigate through the resource’s pages?
o
Is it clear where you are (which sub-level) and how you got there?
o
Is the site well-organized along logical lines? Is there a site map?
o
Is the site searchable? Is there an internal search engine?
o
What is the estimated learning curve for the target audience?
o
How accessible is the site? If it is popular, are there mirror sites?
o
How long does the site take to load?
o
Are “buttons” or menu items clearly labeled in a useful manner?
o
Are there any “annoying” features which make it difficult to use such as white type that won’t print
or new browser windows?
o
If the site uses frames, are they applied in a meaningful manner that aids navigating?
o
Are there a high percentage of dead or inactive links either internally or externally?
Presentation
o
Is the information presented clearly and logically in a format useful to the target audience?
o
Is the interface uncluttered and easy to use?
o
Are the navigational elements clearly identified? Are links to other pages easy to find?
o
Are graphics used wisely to enhance and supplement the text? Do they load quickly?
o
How does the site appear in browser(s)?
o
Is white space used well to ease reading from the screen?
o
Are there any “annoying” features such as flashing banners, overuse of animated gifs, rude color
schemes?
o
Would the site be difficult for users with disabilities or special needs to use? (potential problems:
small type, frames, poor use of white space, lack of color contrast between elements)
Appropriateness for Digital/Web/ Format
o
Does the resource take advantage of unique characteristics of the medium or is it just a bad
“translation” from a print resource?
o
Would (or does) a print (or other) source work fit the information need better? (graphics, statistics,
text, software, presentations)
o
What makes this resource useful in electronic format? (Why not use print?)
o
Is it a realistic option to recommend in this format? (Would a target population prefer to use an
electronic or print version?)
o
Is the resource available in other formats? (for example, a print counterpart for journals)
o
What are the search capabilities for information at the site (full text indexed or PDF files that are
not searchable)?
o
Are full text and graphics available for articles? (perhaps with hyperlinked webliographies)
o
Does the content need to be updated frequently?
Revised-July 2019