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The library catalogue or OPAC (Open Public Access Catalogue) is networked and can therefore be accessed from any computer linked to the school network. There is a designated "OPAC only" computer located by the Quick Reference Collection. The OPAC allows you to search the Heritage Automated Library Management system to see which books, journals, CD-ROMs or audio-visual resources we have.

The catalogue can be searched in many different ways, e.g.

• A particular book or other item, by typing in the author or the title or part of the title.
• Books on a particular subject, e.g. Comets.
• Books given a particular Dewey classification, e.g. 523.6.
• Books about a particular person, e.g. Einstein - biography.
• Journal titles, e.g. History Review
• For a particular type of resource, e.g. a video.

In addition, the books in the Fiction Collection can be searched for:

• A particular theme, e.g. Crime stories.
• A well-known fictitious character, e.g. Morse.

To borrow a book (or other item) you must have your library card with you. Take the book and your card to a librarian who will issue the book to you. The date when it should be returned will be stamped on the date label inside the book.

Most books may be borrowed for 2 weeks, and may be renewed up to 3 times, as long as no one else requires them.

Remove to Fifth Form boys and girls may have up to 4 books out at any one time. Sixth Form students are allowed up to 10 books at a time.

Exceptions:

There are a few books which cannot be borrowed. These include the "Quick Reference Collection", "Special Collection" and some books labelled "Reference Use Only" in the Main Collection.

Overnight Loans

Some key texts for GCSE and Advanced Level may be borrowed on "Overnight Loan" and should be returned before school the next morning.

1 Week Loans

Occasionally, some books will be in great demand for a set piece of work. To ensure that everyone has a fair chance to use them, the librarian will temporarily make these books "1-week loans".

Reservations

Books may be reserved if they are on loan to someone else. This may be done online from any networked computer, or alternatively a librarian will reserve a book for you. A letter will be sent to you when the book is available.

• Books must be brought back on time.
• Books should be handed to a librarian so that they can be returned on the computer. They should not be left on a table.
• No more books may be borrowed if a student has an overdue book.

USE OF THE LIBRARY FOR STUDY

The library is open all day for silent individual study. Please do not disturb other users. The Audio-Visual Room is available for shared or group work when it is not required for audio-visual use.

Sixth Form Private Study Time

The Sixth Form may use the library for silent study during Periods 1-8. Students who need to discuss their work, or work in groups should go to the Sixth Form Study Room or use the Audio-Visual Room if it is available.

If for any reason you can't find what you are looking for, have a look in our alphabetical list, or contact us on the following e-mail: info@kingschester.co.uk