Library Services (Resources for Learning Division)

Library Services, located in the Academic Resource Center, teaches library patrons how to find and evaluate information for their particular purposes, provides print and electronic resources, and creates a learning environment which encourages active self-inquiry. The goal is to create a dynamic, functional relationship between information and people. The collection contains about 147,000 volumes, more than 5000 magazines and journals (print and online), and extensive back issues of the Chicago Tribune and New York Times on microfilm. The collection also includes compact discs, slides, videotapes, software and other media formats. The library oversees the circulation of all materials in the collection. Available for patron use are reference services, library instruction, interlibrary loan, electronic resources, College Archives, reserve materials, copy machines and an online Catalog. Materials added to the collection are acquired and catalogued using the Library of Congress system of classification. Individual study carrels and study rooms for small groups are also available.

The library has a computerized, online Catalog which can be accessed through strategically placed workstations on the first and second floors of the Academic Resource Center. The Catalog can also be accessed from home or office via a modem and personal computer. Numerous Web-based electronic databases and indexes also are accessible for patron use.

Other self-instructional spaces and the independent study area, each equipped with a variety of media, are used to support individualized instruction.

Distance Learning Classes
A variety of courses are now available to students via the World Wide Web. Not only will you have the flexibility of class scheduling, testing dates and times, you may also have the opportunity to communicate with your instructor and classmates via e-mail or through discussion forums. If you have access to a computer with specific hardware and software requirements, modem and online access through an Internet Service Provider (ISP), then Internet courses may be the perfect option for you. Harper uses Blackboard™ (http://harper.blackboard.com) for many courses offered in an online format.

Harper offers a complete range of courses, from economics to psychology, that may be viewed on cable TV within the Harper district area. Each telecourse has a mandatory, on-campus orientation session in order to give you an introduction to the instructor and course expectations. And any missed classes can be viewed at the main campus Library or select area libraries. A taped set of classes may also be rented from the Bookstore for a fee. Please check with your local cable TV company to verify availability of Harper channel access in your area as well as telecourse tape access at your local library.

Other colleges and universities provide courses via two-way interactive video, transmitted live to a Harper classroom. Students who want to enroll in an interactive video class must apply to the institution offering the class. For specific information about interactive video courses offered at Harper College, check the course schedule or call 847.925.6586.