Home > THE EVANS LIBRARY > Library FAQs

BORROWING

Who can use the Library?

The FMCC Evans Library is open to our students, faculty & staff as well as residents of Fulton & Montgomery Counties.  The Library also provides services to all SUNY students, including those attending Empire State College.

How does a student or other patron obtain a library card?

Students attending FMCC will your their college ID as their library card.  Patrons in any other status must provide proof of residency and a photo ID (driver's license with Fulton or Montgomery address or photo ID with some sort of bill proving residency).

How can I use the Library if I'm taking a web-based class or a class off-campus?

All FMCC students are entitled to use the resources of the Evans Library.  If you cannot come on campus, many of our services and materials are available online from the Library Home page. For more details, see our Distance Learning Policy.

What is the loan period for library materials?

Books - 3 weeks, 1 time renewal for a total of 35 days

Videos, CDs, Music CDs - 7 days

Audio books - 7 days

Some of our collections have different borrowing policies; please contact the Circulation Desk for additional information.

Can I take out videos/DVDs?

Yes, some of our videos and DVDs can be signed out for 7 days at a time (with no renewals).  However, others are for use in-house only and information is available in the FMCC catalog

Does the library have the required textbooks for current courses?

No.  The only exception is when a faculty member places an item on reserve for a class.

What if I forget to bring my FMCC ID/Library Card?  Can I still borrow items?

No, our policy states that you must have your card to borrow items.

Are there charges if I return my items late?

Yes.  To encourage the prompt return of library materials we have a $1.00 per day late fee charge.

Why do you charge a fee for late books?  And why so much?

The policy to charge overdue fines was initiated in 1997 after much discussion about the increasing price of materials combined with decreased funding streams and the lack of incentive for people to return books on time.  The decision, made in consultation with the campus administration, faculty, and student government organizations, was enacted to ensure that all Library materials were available equally to all users.

Can I renew my books by phone?  How about online?

Yes, all Library books can be renewed by phone.  You will need to have your photo ID with your barcode handy, since that is how we will access your records.  The Library does not currently offer online renewals, although this feature will be available in the future.

What if I'm taking classes at FMCC and want a book or article from another library?

If you are a current student or staff member, you may request items from another library via your Illiad account.  Ask at the Information Desk for instructions on setting up an ILLiad Interlibrary Loan account.

How long will it take for books to arrive from the other campus?

Requests can take up to 10 days to be filled, but the average is 3-4 days.

How do I return items borrowed from another library via Illiad?

Simply place in any BOOK RETURN drop box at the library.

Can I request or suggest a book for the library to add to its collection?

Yes, let us know at the Reference Desk or send an email with details to libinfo@fmcc.edu

COMPUTER, MEDIA, & COPY/PRINTING SERVICES

Does the library have equipment to play VHS tapes, DVDs or CDs?

Yes, ask at the Circulation Desk for instructions/directions.

Do I need to sign in to use the computers in the library?

No, however academic research does take priority.  During high use times we may request that those not doing academic research give up their seats.

Does the library have a photocopier for public use?

Yes; the charge is 15 cents per page, or with the purchase of a Photo Copy card the charge is 10 cents per page.

Does the library have a fax machine for public use?

No.

Is there wireless access in the library?

Yes, in most locations.

Does the library have laptops for public use?

Laptops are available at the Circulation Desk for in-library use only by FMCC students. You must have an FMCC Student ID and a clear account to borrow a laptop.

REFERENCE & RESEARCH HELP

When students need help with research, where do they go?  Can students get help from off-campus?

Yes, start by going to the Circulation Desk.  You will be directed to the appropriate place/person to answer your question.

From off-campus you may call the library Reference Desk at (518) 762-4651 x5611.

How do I find books about my research topic?

Patrons can use the FMCC Online Catalog to find books and periodicals.  You can access the catalog from on- or off- campus.  Staff members are happy to show you how to use the catalog.

How do I find magazine and newspaper articles about my topic?

The library subscribes to over 125 periodicals (magazines, journals, and newspapers) in the physical collection.  These titles are in our catalog.  We also subscribe to electronic collections where students can access articles electronically using the links from the library's home page.  Current students and staff may access these resources from home.  Simply complete the login page that comes up when you click on a resource from home.

Can someone show me where things are in the library?

Yes, we would be glad to!  Ask at the Circulation Desk.

last updated 12/07/06 pjf