Books (Print Books)
How do I search for books? (Simple search)
- Use the NPC Library homepage search box or go to the NPC Library Catalog
- Enter a book title, author, or subject in the catalog search field.
- You can select a "Format" on the left column to specify books (print), ebooks, dvds, etc.
How do I use Advanced Search in the NPC library catalog?
Click in “Search the catalog” and search by words, title, author, subject, or ISBN.
- Title Search: Type or paste the title. If unsure of the word order of the title, use word search.
- Author Search: Enter the surname first.
- Subject Search: Retrieves exactly as typed, including operators like "and."
- Call Number Search: Search using what you know is the call number or what it might be using the Library of Congress Classification System.
- ISBN: Type or paste the ISBN (International Standard Book Number). If unsure of the ISBN, use word search.
Each item will show location, call number (if applicable), and status (available or checked out). Course reserve items that show "available" in the catalog cannot not be checked out; these must be used/reviewed in the library.
I can't find the book I want.
- Redo or broaden your search if you find nothing. Use a keyword, not a phrase or sentence.
- Try using other terms for word or subject searches.
- Check for spelling mistakes. If you are looking for a title, did you type it in exactly?
- Make sure you are using the right search function. Example: If looking for a title using Advanced Search, you should be searching by title.
- Limit the number of search terms used.
- Ask a librarian to help.
How do I know where an item is located?
- The shelf location is listed in the middle column of the search results page.
- Be sure you use the shelf location number, not the ISBN.
- Pay attention to the collection name. Is it Circulating, New Book, Reference, DVD, Arkansas?
- NPC Library uses the Library of Congress Classification (LCC) system. (For more information, visit www.loc.gov and view the LCC Outline.)
What is a fast way to find other books on my subject?
Once you find a title of interest, click on the “Browse Virtual Shelf” button above the title listing to see what is nearby. Books are shelved together by subject or author.
I found a book in the catalog, but I can't find it on the shelves.
- Check to make sure the item is marked "Available" in the catalog and is not a reserve item or electronic resource.
- If the book is checked out, you may place a HOLD on it.
- Ask a librarian for assistance.
How many books can I check out at one time?
Students may check out up to 10 regular circulating books or up to 3 New or AR books.
What is the book loan period?
Students may check out books for a period of 4 weeks.
A book that I borrowed was lost/stolen/damaged. What should I do?
Report the loss/theft/damage immediately. Although you may be charged a replacement fee, this will avoid having a hold placed on your academic account.
What is the fine/replacement fee for a lost/stolen/damaged book?
$40 fine or current market value per item.
I tried to put a hold on an item, but I couldn't. Why?
- Holds may not be placed on tests or assessment materials.
- Items in that are on reserve cannot be placed on hold.
- Your library account may be expired or blocked because of overdue items. Contact the library regarding the problem.
Where should I return library items?
Items may be returned to the circulation desk in the library or placed in the book drop located in the Administration parking lot.
EBooks (Electronic Books)
How do I find and access eBooks?
Ebooks may be read online or downloaded to your device for a limited time. Please note that downloading eBooks may require that you register and create a personal account. More information on electronic books can be found by going to the EBooks page.
