Library Resources

Northeast Community College is dedicated to the success of students and the region it serves.

The Northeast Library supports the college’s mission by collecting, preserving, and providing access to information for students and those in the region it serves.

The library has enacted the following rules and guidelines to provide better service to students, faculty and staff, and library patrons. (reviewed March 2022)

See the Library Catalog page for current hours.

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.

V. A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.

VI. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

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Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996..

The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label "controversial" views, to distribute lists of "objectionable" books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and suppression are needed to counter threats to safety or national security, as well as to avoid the subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read.

Most attempts at suppression rest on a denial of the fundamental premise of democracy: that the ordinary individual, by exercising critical judgment, will select the good and reject the bad. We trust Americans to recognize propaganda and misinformation, and to make their own decisions about what they read and believe. We do not believe they are prepared to sacrifice their heritage of a free press in order to be "protected" against what others think may be bad for them. We believe they still favor free enterprise in ideas and expression.

These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the Internet. The problem is not only one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an even larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or unwelcome scrutiny by government officials.

These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the Internet. The problem is not only one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an even larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or unwelcome scrutiny by government officials.

Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and write is almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression that can initially command only a small audience. The written word is the natural medium for the new idea and the untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is essential to the extended discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of knowledge and ideas into organized collections.

Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and write is almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression that can initially command only a small audience. The written word is the natural medium for the new idea and the untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is essential to the extended discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of knowledge and ideas into organized collections.

The freedom to read is guaranteed by the Constitution. Those with faith in free people will stand firm on these constitutional guarantees of essential rights and will exercise the responsibilities that accompany these rights.

We therefore affirm these propositions:

1. It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest diversity of views and expressions, including those that are unorthodox, unpopular, or considered dangerous by the majority.
   
   Creative thought is by definition new, and what is new is different. The bearer of every new thought is a rebel until that idea is refined and tested. Totalitarian systems attempt to maintain themselves in power by the ruthless suppression of any concept that challenges the established orthodoxy. The power of a democratic system to adapt to change is vastly strengthened by the freedom of its citizens to choose widely from among conflicting opinions offered freely to them. To stifle every nonconformist idea at birth would mark the end of the democratic process. Furthermore, only through the constant activity of weighing and selecting can the democratic mind attain the strength demanded by times like these. We need to know not only what we believe but why we believe it.
   
   
2. Publishers, librarians, and booksellers do not need to endorse every idea or presentation they make available. It would conflict with the public interest for them to establish their own political, moral, or aesthetic views as a standard for determining what should be published or circulated.
   
   Publishers and librarians serve the educational process by helping to make available knowledge and ideas required for the growth of the mind and the increase of learning. They do not foster education by imposing as mentors the patterns of their own thought. The people should have the freedom to read and consider a broader range of ideas than those that may be held by any single librarian or publisher or government or church. It is wrong that what one can read should be confined to what another thinks proper.
   
   
3. It is contrary to the public interest for publishers or librarians to bar access to writings on the basis of the personal history or political affiliations of the author.
   
   No art or literature can flourish if it is to be measured by the political views or private lives of its creators. No society of free people can flourish that draws up lists of writers to whom it will not listen, whatever they may have to say.
   
   
4. There is no place in our society for efforts to coerce the taste of others, to confine adults to the reading matter deemed suitable for adolescents, or to inhibit the efforts of writers to achieve artistic expression.
   
   To some, much of modern expression is shocking. But is not much of life itself shocking? We cut off literature at the source if we prevent writers from dealing with the stuff of life. Parents and teachers have a responsibility to prepare the young to meet the diversity of experiences in life to which they will be exposed, as they have a responsibility to help them learn to think critically for themselves. These are affirmative responsibilities, not to be discharged simply by preventing them from reading works for which they are not yet prepared. In these matters values differ, and values cannot be legislated; nor can machinery be devised that will suit the demands of one group without limiting the freedom of others.
   
   
5. It is not in the public interest to force a reader to accept the prejudgment of a label characterizing any expression or its author as subversive or dangerous.
   
   The ideal of labeling presupposes the existence of individuals or groups with wisdom to determine by authority what is good or bad for others. It presupposes that individuals must be directed in making up their minds about the ideas they examine. But Americans do not need others to do their thinking for them.
   
   
6. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as guardians of the people's freedom to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large; and by the government whenever it seeks to reduce or deny public access to public information.
   
   It is inevitable in the give and take of the democratic process that the political, the moral, or the aesthetic concepts of an individual or group will occasionally collide with those of another individual or group. In a free society individuals are free to determine for themselves what they wish to read, and each group is free to determine what it will recommend to its freely associated members. But no group has the right to take the law into its own hands, and to impose its own concept of politics or morality upon other members of a democratic society. Freedom is no freedom if it is accorded only to the accepted and the inoffensive. Further, democratic societies are more safe, free, and creative when the free flow of public information is not restricted by governmental prerogative or self-censorship.
   
   
7. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians to give full meaning to the freedom to read by providing books that enrich the quality and diversity of thought and expression. By the exercise of this affirmative responsibility, they can demonstrate that the answer to a "bad" book is a good one, the answer to a "bad" idea is a good one.
   
   The freedom to read is of little consequence when the reader cannot obtain matter fit for that reader's purpose. What is needed is not only the absence of restraint, but the positive provision of opportunity for the people to read the best that has been thought and said. Books are the major channel by which the intellectual inheritance is handed down, and the principal means of its testing and growth. The defense of the freedom to read requires of all publishers and librarians the utmost of their faculties, and deserves of all Americans the fullest of their support.

We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty claim for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of enormous variety and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the application of these propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of expression that are repugnant to many persons. We do not state these propositions in the comfortable belief that what people read is unimportant. We believe rather that what people read is deeply important; that ideas can be dangerous; but that the suppression of ideas is fatal to a democratic society. Freedom itself is a dangerous way of life, but it is ours.

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This statement was originally issued in May of 1953 by the Westchester Conference of the American Library Association and the American Book Publishers Council, which in 1970 consolidated with the American Educational Publishers Institute to become the Association of American Publishers. Adopted June 25, 1953, by the ALA Council and the AAP Freedom to Read Committee; amended January 28, 1972; January 16, 1991; July 12, 2000; June 30, 2004.

The freedom to view, along with the freedom to speak, to hear, and to read, is protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. In a free society, there is no place for censorship of any medium of expression. Therefore, these principles are affirmed:

1. To provide the broadest access to film, video, and other audiovisual materials because they are a means for the communication of ideas. Liberty of circulation is essential to insure the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression.
2. To protect the confidentiality of all individuals and institutions using film, video, and other audiovisual materials.
3. To provide film, video, and other audiovisual materials which represent a diversity of views and expression. Selection of a work does not constitute or imply agreement with or approval of the content.
4. To provide a diversity of viewpoints without the constraint of labeling or prejudging film, video, or other audiovisual materials on the basis of the moral, religious, or political beliefs of the producer or filmmaker or on the basis of controversial content.
5. To contest vigorously, by all lawful means, every encroachment upon the public's freedom to view.

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This statement was originally drafted by the Freedom to View Committee of the American Film and Video Association (formerly the Educational Film Library Association) and was adopted by the AFVA Board of Directors in February 1979. This statement was updated and approved by the AFVA Board of Directors in 1989. Endorsed January 10, 1990, by the ALA Council.

Borrowing privileges are limited to the following categories of authorized borrowers:

• Northeast Community College students
• Northeast Community College faculty and staff
• Persons living in the 20 county area served by Northeast Community College who are not current students can be registered as a library patron with limited privileges.

Registration requirements are as follows:

• All Northeast students currently enrolled in at least a 1-credit course will be automatically registered with the library.
• Anyone who is not a current Northeast student or employee who wishes to borrow materials or use a library lab computer must complete a library registration form that will include current contact information including address, telephone number, and e-mail address.
• Anyone who is not a current Northeast student or employee must present valid government issued identification when completing a registration form.

The Northeast Community College Library strives to maintain a welcoming environment where individuals feel comfortable to conduct academic research activities and studies. In support of this goal the following activities are not acceptable:

• Any activities that create excessive noise, such as playing audible music, loud conversations, or commotion that impacts library users. Those engaging in activities at volumes that may be disruptive to others are encouraged to make use of the lower level of Union 73.
• Abusing, threatening, or intimidating library users or staff through language or action.
• Engaging in sexual harassment and/or overt sexual behavior.
• Refusing to leave the library at closing time.
• Violating any Northeast Community College policy.

Library staff will ask parties engaging in any of these activities to cease the behavior or leave the area. Campus security may be called to escort persons from the area if they do not comply with the above guidelines or if they display other actions that are deemed inappropriate.

Circulation rules are designed to benefit all library users and patrons.

The library does not limit the number of items checked out to an individual. Library materials can be checked out from library staff or at the Service Center.

Exceptions to the circulation rules below may be granted on a case-by-case basis if need is demonstrated.Exceptions to the circulation rules below may be granted on a case-by-case basis if need is demonstrated.

• Books circulate to students and library patrons for 21 days.
• Books circulate to faculty, staff for 28 days.
• DVDs circulate for 7 days.
• Magazines circulate for 24 hours.
• Items placed on reserve are circulated according to the instructor's request.
• Items borrowed from other libraries through interlibrary loan circulate according to the rules of the lending library.

Holds

• Holds will be placed upon request. The borrower will be notified when the requested material is available for check out.
• Items placed on hold will be held for 3 days and then returned to circulation if they have not been picked up.

Renewals

• Library materials may be renewed in person, by telephone or by email at librarian@northeast.edu.
• Library materials with a wait listing will not be renewed.

Course Reserves

• Faculty may place articles, books or other materials on reserve for students to use.
• Faculty reserve request forms are available in the library.
• Exceptions to the circulation rules below may be granted on a case-by-case basis if need is demonstrated.

Fines

• Library users are responsible for all items checked out under their name.
• Borrowing privileges will be suspended when materials are overdue or borrower has unpaid fines exceeding $2.00.
• Fines for overdue materials will accrue at the following rates:
  • Books - $.05 per day, per item
  • Magazines - $.50 per day, per item
  • DVDs - $.50 per day, per item
  • Interlibrary loan materials - $.50 per day, per item
• All borrowers will be charged the replacement cost for lost or damaged library materials. In addition, a $10.00 non-refundable processing fee will be charged for each lost or damaged item.

The Northeast Library provides interlibrary loan services to the college's registered students, faculty, and staff for materials not available in the Northeast Library. Patrons should make use of their local public library for interlibrary loan services.

• An Interlibrary Loan Request Form with full bibliographic citations must be completed for each item being requested.
• Interlibrary loans will be processed Monday through Friday during regular library hours.
• Borrowers will be notified via telephone or email when requested library materials have been received at the Northeast Library or are available for downloading.
• Interlibrary loan materials that have not been picked up will be returned to the lending library two weeks from the date of notification, or by the due date, whichever is earlier.
• Library materials borrowed from other libraries through interlibrary loan circulate according to the rules of the lending library. Borrowers must return items to the Northeast Library on or before the due date so they may be shipped back to the lending library
• Fines for overdue interlibrary loan materials will accrue at $.50 per day, per item.
• The Northeast Library may deny interlibrary loan services to users who have not returned overdue library materials or who have outstanding fines or fees.

Computers

The Northeast Library provides computer and Internet access in support of information and research needs of our students, faculty, and staff. In addition to students, faculty, and staff, this access is provided to library patrons who are residents of the 20-county area served by the college.

• Any patron using the computer lab, must complete a library registration form and present valid government issued identification before using a computer.
• Patrons must sign in at the front desk of the library each time they use a lab computer.
• Computer use by patrons is limited to 1 hour in a 24-hour period.

Priorities for Computer Users

In the event that all computers are being used and students are waiting for available computers the following rules apply:

• Students who need to access a computer to do research, complete a test, or work on an assignment will be given first priority.
• Students or patrons using computers only for entertainment must give up their computer to any student needing a computer for educational purposes.

Rules for Computer Users

• Library computers are not to be used to view pornographic or defamatory websites. Anyone in violation of these rules will be referred to the appropriate office and consequences will be in alignment with the acceptable use policy.
• File downloading is for instructional purposes only.
• Students should save documents to their personal cloud storage space rather than a Northeast computer to ensure that documents will not be deleted or accessed by others.
• Beverages near computer stations must be in covered containers.
• Earbuds are available from library staff members. When listening to audio, the volume must not be distracting to others.

Computer Printers

• Students will have a standard amount applied to their account each semester, providing them with free printing. Students who wish to print more than the number of free pages provided during a term have the option to pay for additional printing by adding the desired amount to their account.
• Faculty and staff will not be charged for printing college-related materials.
• Students, faculty, and staff can find instructions on the Printing at Northeast page.
• Patrons must use Uprint services provided through the Hawk Shop. Current charge rates will apply. See the Uprint and Shipping Services page for details.

Photocopy Machine

• Photocopies can be made by students, faculty, and staff using the computer printers. Charge rates are the same as for printing.
• Patrons should visit the Hawk Shop or see the Uprint and Shipping Services page for details about making photocopies.
• Users of photocopy machines are expected to comply with all copyright rules and regulations.
• Northeast Library promotes Fair Use while promoting the understanding and adherence to the provisions of the United States Copyright Law.

Telephones

• There are no public telephones in the library.
• Permission to use a library telephone to make a local call is left to the discretion of the library staff.
• Cell phones are permitted if the user is courteous to others in the library. Extended conversations are discouraged.

Assistance to Students

• The library staff will offer assistance to any student or patron needing help in using and/or searching databases and other resources available in the library.

Assistance to Faculty and Staff

• The library staff will assist in answering basic reference questions, compiling bibliographies or assisting with in-depth research.
• The library staff is available for orientations in classrooms or the library. In-person or virtual presentations can be scheduled in advance with library staff. Presentations will include general overviews of the library's resources, information literacy, and the evaluation of information sources, or presentations may be tailored to an instructor's assignment or resources available in a particular field of study.
• The library staff will provide presentations or tutorials that can be posted in Canvas courses. Instructors should contact the library to discuss and make arrangements.

Selecting Materials

Library collections are selected to support the information needs of the instructional programs and curriculum of Northeast Community College.

• Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to recommend materials to be added to the collection.
• The Director of Library Services has the ultimate responsibility of selecting materials to meet the information needs of the various college programs, within the library’s budget guidelines.

The following considerations will be made in selecting library materials:

• Is the material timely or does it have historical value? Does it support the study of local, national, and international issues and events in history? If it is not of permanent value, what use does it have that would make it a desirable acquisition?
• Is it important to a particular program? Is it important to professional or institutional development?
• Has the material been reviewed in a professional journal? What is known of the author(s) and the authority of those reviewing the material?
• Does the material have the appropriate level of approach? Is it intended for an audience such as that served by the college?
• How does the material relate to what is already in the college collection? Does it duplicate, supplement, or supersede what is already in the collection?
• Will the material support intellectual freedom? Does the library have materials presenting diverse points of view on current and historical issues, which will help students develop critical and analytical thinking skills?

Removing Materials

• The library collection will be periodically evaluated in order to determine which materials should be discarded. Faculty members will be involved in the decision to weed materials whenever practical.
• The following considerations will be made in weeding materials from the collection:
  • Is the material appropriate and current?
  • Does the material have historical value to the collection?
  • Has the material ever been checked out of the library? If so – how many times, when was it last circulated?
  • What is the physical condition of the material?
  • Does the item duplicate other materials in the library?

Gifts

• The library accepts gifts of books and other materials to the library collection with the understanding that they will be evaluated in the same manner as any other library materials.
• The library is not obligated to add any gift to the library collection.
• The library retains the right to recycle any unusable gifts without notifying the donor.

Reconsideration of Materials

Materials in the library are selected to support the informational, instructional, and research needs of the college community. A patron who wishes to request the reconsideration of library material must complete and submit the Request for Reconsideration form. This written request will be reviewed by a review committee appointed by the Director of Library Services. A determination will be made in accordance with library rules and guidelines and college policies and procedures. The patron will receive a final written response to the submitted request for reconsideration as staffing and time allow, usually within 90 to 120 days. Patrons may submit one Request for Reconsideration form at a time and await an official response prior to subsequent submissions. Contact a member of the Northeast Library staff for the Request for Reconsideration form.