Library FAQs

Library Hours and Location 

What are the library’s hours?Library hours are as posted on MCC's website. 

Is the library open during spring and winter break?Yes, the library is open during breaks, though hours may be different from those during semesters. Please check our website for break hours.  

Where is the library?
MCC’s Library is located in the lower level of the Donald C. Burns Administration/Library Building on the college’s Sidney campus. It is accessible by taking the stairs or elevator in the foyer of the east entrance to the lower level. 

Where can I park?
Free parking is available on campus. 

Library Cards 

Do I need a library card?
You must have a library card to check out materials at the MCC Library. To get a library card, you need your current MCC student ID and your driver’s license. A library card is not needed for computer use and other services that are open to the general public. Current library cards are honored. 

What if I don't have my ID or my library card?
Your ID/library card facilitates ALL library transaction processes, so please have it with you.

Material Checkouts 

May the public checkout items from the library?
The public is welcome to use the MCC Library during its regularly scheduled hours. To check out books you must present a valid Michigan ID or Michigan Driver’s License and you will be responsible for any overdue fines or damages related to borrowed materials. 

How do I locate material in the library?
All of the library’s materials may be found in the MCC library’s online catalog, where you can search for material by author, subject and/or keyword. Please note the item’s “Call Number” and check “Holdings” to make sure the item is available. The call number will direct you to the shelf location of the item and if you need assistance, please ask.  Our library staff does not have access to your assignments or course outlines, so please come prepared with your needs so that our courteous and informed staff of library professionals can assist you. Also, researching information is not always a quick task, so please allow yourself adequate time to make the most of our resources. We look forward to helping you! 

How many items may I borrow at a time?
You may borrow up to six (6) items at a time.

How long can I keep library materials?All circulating library material has a three-week loan period. If you need your material longer, please call or visit the library and we will renew your material for another three weeks. It is important to renew material you are still using.

What are Two-hour Reserves?Materials may be placed on reserve by your instructor to ensure that the entire class will have access to the required readings. Ask for them at the Circulation Desk. They’re usually available for two hours and must be used in the library. A few items, however, are open reserve with unique loan periods set by the instructor.

Amenities 

What type of conditions can I expect to find in the library?

• Quiet work stations equipped with tables, chairs and charging stations
• Comfortable couches and chairs for reading and studying
• Restrooms
• Drinking fountains 

Do you have private study areas?There are three (3) study rooms for small groups or to meet with a tutor.  Private study rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

What equipment is available for me to use at the library?

• 20 computers equipped with MCC’s databases, online access and Microsoft Office software
• Printers are available for printing from library computers 
• Scanner
• *Please note the library does not have a fax machine or laminator. 

How much does it cost to use the printer?You may pay to print documents at the library’s print station and the library staff can help you add money to your account.  Printing costs are as follows:

• Single-sided black and white printed pages cost $0.05 each
• Single-sided color printed pages cost $0.25 each. 

Policies 

Can I use the phone?Phone calls are not permitted inside the library.  Please use the lobby outside the library to take calls. Out of respect for others, please mute the ring of your cell phone while in the library.  

Can I bring food and/or drinks into the library?Food is not permitted in the library.  However, drinks in covered containers are allowed.  An eating area is available in the area near Crystal the Mastodon, just before you enter the library; there is also space on the library patio, weather permitting. 

What if I lose or damage an item?All library borrowers are responsible for the material they check out. Borrowers are charged the replacement cost of any lost or damaged material as well as any outstanding overdue fines on these items. Failure to settle any outstanding fines or fees may result in a hold being placed on your student record.

What is a library hold and what should I do if I have one?If you have overdue library materials, a hold will be placed in your student record and you won’t be able to register for classes, receive financial aid reimbursement, or obtain your official transcript.