Collections

The TCC Library contains several types of collections, each with slightly different parameters for patron access and borrowing privileges. 

General Collection
The majority of our books belong to the General Collection.  These resources cover a wide range of biomedical subjects, including preclinical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and pathology, as well as general medicine and related disciplines such as alternative therapies and allied health.  This is an open-shelf, circulating collection arranged according to the National Library of Medicine classification system.  Chiropractic books – that is, books about the chiropractic profession, philosophy and techniques, as well as books written by chiropractors – are marked with a yellow “Chiropractic” label.

Reserve Collection     
This collection consists of current classroom textbooks and class notes placed on limited circulation by instructors.  Because these materials are crucial to everyone’s studies, the Library strives to balance fair access with availability and security.  Some items may circulate overnight but must be returned by 9:00 am the following day.  All other items in this collection are restricted to Library use only.

Reference Collection
Materials in this collection include periodical indexes, abstracts, dictionaries, atlases, encyclopedias, handbooks, directories and source books.  These resources are all for Library use only.

Archives Collection
Items having historical value to the College are housed in the Archives Collection.  Some of the formats found here are books, photographs, portraits and manuscripts.  Because these materials are often fragile and irreplaceable, this is a closed-stack collection, and may be accessed by request only.  Briefcases, backpacks, purses and books may not be taken into this area.  Certain materials may be removed one at a time for photocopying purposes.

Audiovisual Collection
The TCC Media Services department maintains a collection of approximately 1000 audiovisual titles, including videotapes and DVD’s, CD’s, slides, and anatomical models to complement the curriculum and individual studies.  Some AV materials may be borrowed overnight; others are for Library use only.

Periodicals Collection
Current issues of journals are shelved alphabetically by title in the main reading area.  Back issues are bound and arranged by title on the shelves just beyond the current periodicals.  A list of print holdings is available in the Reference area.  The Periodicals Collection is restricted to Library use only.

The Library also subscribes to numerous online journals that may be accessed via the college’s Blackboard link.      

Catalog

The Library maintains an Online Public Access Catalog, or OPAC, to help locate library materials.  The Library’s OPAC uses the Athena software.  Audiovisual materials, journals and books are all listed in the Athena catalog.  Students may access the catalog via the computer next to the reference desk

Circulation Services

Borrowing periods for TCC Library materials are as follows:

Patrons will be charged a fine for any item returned after the designated due date.

The borrower must pay for any materials that are lost or irreparably damaged.

Friends of the Library

For a $50 annual fee, TCC alumni, field professionals or the general public may become Friends of the Library.  A Friend of the Library may check out up to three books at a time, subject to the circulation and fine rules stated above.