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Library FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions



How long can I check out books?


How can I renew books?

Renewals are allowed one time for circulating materials that are not overdue, and do not have a hold placed on them.
Renewals are for two weeks starting on the day they are renewed.
You cannot renew materials, if you have an outstanding library fine.
Reserve materials may not be renewed.

Renewing in Person
To renew a book in person bring it to the Library Circulation Desk on or before the due date.

Renewing by Telephone
To renew items over the telephone you must call the Rosenberg Library's Circulation Department (415) 452-5433 or the Circulation Department of your campus library during open hours, on or before the due date. Telephone renewals are not accepted via voice-mail.
Renewing Online


Does the library have textbooks?

The library, in general, does not purchase textbooks. However, instructors and the Associated Students of CCSF may provide textbooks for some of your classes. Textbooks have a limited loan period. Use the
library's online catalog to determine if your textbook is available. Search by title, course name or instructor. Also, find out about the CCSF Associated Students' BookLoan Program. If you need further assistance, visit a CCSF Library or call us when we are open.



Does the library have videos?

The library does own videos, CDs, and audiocassettes. These materials cannot be taken home and must be viewed or listened to in the library. Search for these materials in our OPAC (use the
Find Books: Library Catalog option on the library's web page.



Obtaining a Library Card

All currently registered CCSF students should receive a student ID by mail:
CCSF student ID
Your student ID is also your library card
. Your ID should have a bar code already printed on it. This will allow you to check out books at any campus library and also allow you to access our periodical databases. If you have NOT received your Student ID, you may obtain one at Smith Hall, Room 118, Ocean Campus.

  • Staff or faculty members may obtain a library card/bar code by requesting one at any CCSF Library

  • San Francisco resident but not a CCSF student, staff or faculty member: may obtain a library card/bar code by showing an ID with a San Francisco address (not a P.O. Box). Borrowing privileges are limited. You cannot use the Open Access Computer Labs, and there may be other restrictions.

    Where can I find periodical articles?

    The library subscribes to a variety of periodicals: newspapers, journals and magazines. Check the
    periodicals holding list to see whether the library has a particular journal or newspaper.

    To find articles on a specific topic you must use an index. The library subscribes to several online databases you may search by subject to find articles. Access the databases by selecting the Find Articles: Databases icon on the library's main web page http://www.ccsf.edu/Library.



    Open Access Computer Labs

    Rosenberg Library
    4th Floor: Workstations provide internet access. Find books and articles. Requires library bar code.
    5th Floor (Room 521): Computers provide word processing, spreadsheet, database programs (Microsoft Office), internet. Has a scanner. Requires library bar code and student ID number.
    2nd Floor, Learning Assistance Center: Computer labs provide internet access, various software programs. Call the
    Center for more information.

    Campus Libraries
    Campus Libraries also provide workstations. Access the internet, periodical databases. Word processing and other software programs may be available. Call individual libraries for more information.

    Other computer labs on the Ocean/Phelan Campus
    Note: Call to confirm time, requirements.



    Where can I get help with my homeowrk?


    Where can I FAX a document?
    1.A fax machine is available in the Rosenberg Library, Ocean/Phelan Campus. Ask at the Circulation Desk, 4th Floor. Call 415-452-5541 for cost.
    2. Career & Development Center - Science 127 - provides free faxing for CCSF students who are faxing resumes/cover letters. Phone: 239-3117
    3. The CCSF Bookstore Annex on Phelan Ave. (Ocean/Phelan Campus 452-5210) and CCSF Bookstore at the John Adams Campus (561-1871) have a fax machine for students. Not free. Call for cost.
    4. Try CopyEdge on 1508 Ocean Ave. near Miramar St.- CopyEdge also has a color photocopier. 415-587-5345


    Does the library have a color copier?

    A color copier is available in the Rosenberg Library, 3rd Floor. Call 415-452-5541 for cost.



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    Library & Learning Resources, City College of San Francisco, 50 Phelan Ave. San Francisco, CA 94112 415-452-5541
    Dean of Library & Resources, City Collge of San Francisco: Rita Jones