BANC
Stands for Berea’s Automated Networked Catalog. BANC is a database that can be used to find books, journals, magazines, media, and other library items. Online catalogs like BANC function in many of the same ways as the traditional library card catalog.

circulating collection
The general name for library items that may be checked out and taken outside of the building.

Circulation Desk
When entering the building, the circulation desk is the desk to your left. At the circulation desk, users can check out books, pick up course reserve materials, and pay overdue fines. This area is sometimes referred to as “circ”.

course reserves
Located behind the circulation desk, course reserves are library items or an instructor’s personal items placed "on hold" for your class at the circulation desk. Some reserve materials can only be used in the library building, while others may be checked out for a short period of time. Call numbers for course reserves can be found in BANC within the course reserves tab.

library database
A database is an organized collection of searchable information. Library databases allow users to type in a search query (example: “dogs”) and receive an output of search results corresponding to that query (example: article and book citations about or relating to dogs.) The Hutchins Library website is home to many electronic databases, such as Academic Search Premier.

Dewey Decimal System
The system used by Hutchins Library to organize library items. Found on the spines of library books and materials, Dewey Decimal call numbers help users locate books on the shelves. Dewey Decimal call numbers are assigned to library items based on their subject, so books with similar subjects end up being shelved in the same areas.

e-books
E-books = electronic books. E-books are online versions of traditional print books. E-books can be located using BANC.

electronic resources
A group of electronic library resources found on the Hutchins Library website. Electronic resources are a general name for electronic library databases, e-books, online journals, and online reference sources.

Interlibrary Loan
A free service that allows students, faculty, and staff to borrow materials (books, articles, etc.) from other libraries that aren’t available in Hutchins Library. To submit an Interlibrary Loan request, simply fill out an online form or pick up a paper form at the Reference Desk. This service is sometimes referred to as ILL.

library holdings
Another name for the items that Hutchins Library has access to.

media
A general name for DVDs, VHS tapes, CDs, cassette tapes or records.

online journals
Online journals are online versions of traditional print journals. Individual articles from online journals may be printed. Online journals can be located using BANC, the Full Text Journals page, or library databases.

patrons
Another word for library users. Hutchins Library patrons include Berea College students, faculty, and staff, as well as community members.

periodical
A general name for newspapers, magazines, and scholarly journals. These items are often referred to as periodicals because they are published “periodically”, often in weekly, monthly, quarterly, or bi-annual installments.

Reference Desk
When entering the building, the reference desk is the desk to your right. At the reference desk, users can ask questions about finding library materials, using electronic and print resources, and doing research. The Ask-a-Librarian email service allows users to obtain reference desk services without having to come to the library building.

Special Collections & Archives
A library department specializing in special collections, rare books, archives, and manuscripts. Located on the 1st floor, Special Collections & Archives is an important resource for anyone doing historical research on Berea College or the Appalachian region.

stacks
Another name for library bookshelves. The term “stacks” is often used to refer to the circulating collection on the 3rd floor.

Technical Systems & Services
A library department specializing in the ordering, processing, and cataloging of library items. A lot of important “behind the scenes” work takes place here to prepare library items for use.

Vend-A-Card
A plastic card that allows users to print from campus copiers and printers. Money can be added to a Vend-A-Card at the copy machines on the 1st and 2nd floors of the library. Lost Vend-A-Cards may be replaced for a fee at the Printing Services office.