Answered By: Retired Staff
Last Updated: Feb 14, 2025     Views: 151

How do I find an item on the shelf?

When you have found an item from the catalogue or TAFE Queensland Library Network website, look at the record and note the following details:

  • Call number

    A code containing a combination of letters and numbers. It's used to identify an item and show its address on TAFE Queensland Library Network shelf. 

  • Location

    Check which TAFE Queensland Library Network campus holds the item.

  • Collection

    TAFE Queensland Library Network is divided into different sections.

    • General: Most items can be borrowed. Some items may not if they are rare and valuable. These items are usually identified by a 'Not For Loan' sticker on the spine.

    • 7 Day Loans: These resources can only be borrowed for '7 days' at a time because they are in high demand. A shorter loan period means more students can access the book faster. It is possible to renew your loan if no one else needs the resource. 

    • Language and Literacy books to help students improve their spoken and written English. These are often in a special section within TAFE Queensland Library Network.

    • Journals: Serials, journals and magazines are the same thing. Print copies are available for borrowing from boxes on the shelves where they are stored in order of publication date. Electronic copies of serials can be accessed online or from databases. (See next TAB: Online resources)

    • Held at desk: Very special items may be kept behind the Circulation Desk. These items may have been bought for a particular class or subject and special privileges are required to borrow them.

  • Status

    Is it on loan?
    Is it a new item and still being processed?
    Is it a 'Not for loan' item?
    When items are in heavy demand, they can only be used in TAFE Queensland Library Network campus, to ensure everyone has access. Once the demand ceases, the 'Not for loan' status is removed.

What do I do if the item isn’t on the shelf?

Double-check the catalogue to make sure you have noted the details correctly. If you still can’t find the item, ask TAFE Queensland Library Network staff for assistance.​​

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