On the internet browser of your choice, go to: banc.berea.edu

You will be on the home page of our new version of BANC. You may begin any search by either clicking on Search Catalog or by using the box provided for the Quick Search option. You may also search Course Reserves, Other Catalogs or Patron Information from this page.

To perform a Quick Search, type a name or key words in the box provided and click search or hit return. This is a keyword search of every field, so it is a very broad search, and your most relevant results will be listed first. For other searching options from this page use the drop down box where you see Quick Search to choose either title, author, or journal title, or to select browsing options for subjects, authors or call numbers. You may also select Advanced Search at this point to perform an in-depth search. Another way to begin a search is to place your cursor on Search Catalog and hit return. This option takes you to a screen where you may choose Simple Search, Complex Search or Course Reserves.

Simple Search allows you to choose from the results fields listed in the box directly to the right of your searching box. After typing your search, you may also limit it by clicking on the pencil icon to the far right below the blue search box. Limits include such things as language, medium (format of item) and location (such as Reference or Science Library.) When search limits are in place, you will see a warning message and an icon with an eraser; limits remain in place until you remove them.

Complex Search allows you to use Boolean Logic to combine words and phrases. If you choose this option, pay particular attention to the choices for connecting words. There are also options to search for words individually or as a phrase. Additionally, you may choose the results field (such as author, title or publisher) which you think will be the best for the search words you have chosen. Limits may also be assigned with this search.

Online Assistance is just a click away because Help Screens are located for each screen of our new catalog. By choosing HELP on the front page of our catalog, you will be able to see a site index and link to specific help information by topic. At the top of every screen beyond the front page, you will find blue buttons which will enable you to move easily around in the catalog. You will find the Help button there, along with the other blue buttons such as Headings, Titles, Patron and History. Although you will notice some differences between this new version of BANC and our old catalog, there are many new and exciting options now available. The Hutchins Library Staff is ready to assist you with any questions. Please feel free to call the Reference Desk at X3109. Special training sessions will be available as the students and faculty return to campus.