Finding Books

For information about how to find books in the Baker College libraries please read the following:

• Baker online book catalog is called the PALnet Catalog.
• NO authentication required for browsing this catalog.
• You will not be able to read most books from this catalog since they are not in electronic format. You will have to borrow (aka check out) the book(s) from the library.
• Electronic books can be searched through the book catalog and then linked to the book content via the Netlibrary Database.
• Baker ID card required to check out book(s).

SEARCH:

• Go to Search menu
• Choose search option: author, title keyword, alphabetical title, etc.
• Enter search term.
• Find the book you want.
• Click on the title to see if it is available at your library.
• Get call number.
• Get book from shelf. When not available at your location, see a librarian if you would like to obtain the book or use the online request form to request the book from the library.
• Ask librarian for help when you cannot find a particular book in the PALnet catalog.

Finding a book in a library is very similar to locating a house by its address:

Street = Shelf
House = Book
Address = Call #

Call number gives you the address of the book in a library. Call numbers for Baker books are a string of letters and numbers ALWAYS BEGINNING WITH A LETTER
Example: HF 7235 .C45

When the book is available at a Baker library, you will get the call number, status and location information, even when you see the book information.

• Call number: Location of the book in the library
• Status: Item availability
• Location: Library that has the item.

When you get the "Not available at your location" message, click on "Other locations" and the next screen will display the book's availability with other PALnet libraries. See a librarian if you would like to obtain this book.

When you want to check out a book:

• Status should be one of the following:
  • Checked In
  • Shelving cart
  • Display

Any other status means that the book is currently not available. Check with the librarian on getting the book when available.

• Should not have "REF" prefix in the call number. Why? This means that you've selected is a Reference book, that can not be checked out.

REFERENCE COLLECTION

Books with the classification number preceded by "REF" are designated "Reference." They include such basic sources as encyclopedias, dictionaries, biographical source books, and directories. If you need statistics, definitions, or a concise overview about a topic, the reference collection is an excellent place to begin. Reference books cannot be checked out, but copies may be made of the pages you need.

CAREER STUDY MATERIALS

Books with the classification number preceded by "CSM" are designated Career Study Materials and are shelved in a special area. They include books about career development, vocational guidance, resumes (employment), interviewing, job security, new business enterprises, entrepreneurship, and career changes. Career Study materials can be checked out unless they are also designated "Reference."

Some libraries may have additional special collections.

REMEMBER: If you are having trouble locating a book, please do not hesitate to ask a Librarian!