If you cannot find the information you need in these FAQs, please feel free to contact us!

• Email  library@btc.edu 

• Phone  360.752.8383  

• Ask the Library  24/7  (24/7)

• Where is the library located?

  Third Floor, Campus Center (CC)

  Bellingham Technical College Library

  3028 Lindbergh Ave.

  Bellingham, WA 98225

• When is the library open?

  Please see our web page for the most current information on our hours of operation, or our Hours & Contacts page.

• How do I access BTC’s wifi?

  The network name is BTC Hotspot.

  The username is BTC,  and the password is available from library staff. 

  Please call us at 360-752-8383 to obtain the password.

• Does the Library have computers for student use?

  Yes. The Library has a computer lab for students on campus.  Please see our web page for the most current information on our location and our hours of operation.

• What assistive technologies does the library provide?

  The library offers computer software and hardware to assist with special needs. Please contact us to find out more.

• What online databases are available for BTC students, staff, and faculty?

   Our handy A-Z listing of databases is available, with active links. You may need to login to our proxy server if you are accessing databases outside of our networked space.  This guide provides information and troubleshooting if you have any problems with logging into our databases.

• How do I learn more about online resources and how to use them?

   One of our most popular research guides is the Research Workshop (with short, how-to videos).  It focuses entirely on online resources so that the information you need is available anytime, from anywhere.

  This research guide includes short videos on getting your library research done quickly and effectively. You can learn about databases, keyword searching, and topics such as media bias and filter bubbles are covered.  It's totally self-guided, so you can watch and learn as you have time or need.  

• How can I access library databases, electronic books, and journals off campus?

   

  This guide provides information and troubleshooting if you have any problems with logging into our databases.  The A-Z Database List will list titles and links to available databases.

• Does the Library offer access to eBooks?

   

  Yes!  You can search for eBooks through our OneSearch online catalog.  Use the filters on the left hand side to limit your search to "Full-Text Online."

  We also have an ebook video tutorial, Finding Online Books (eBooks). This video demonstrates searching for ebooks in EBSCO eBooks - Academic Collection.

• How do I access my library account?

   

  "My Library Account" is located at the top right corner of this page. When you click on "My Library Account, a pop-up box will appear: enter your student User ID and password.

  The “User ID” is your student network username, which is your last name and last four digits of your student ID number (e.g. smith1234). Your password is the unique network password that you created.  For assistance with your password, please contact the Library. 

• Where can I find online research help?

   

  The Library has many ways to help you with your online research.

  • Research Guides can help you with video tutorials, links, and research suggestions.

  • A-Z Database list shows you what databases we offer.  You can search by subject, and links are provided.

  • OneSearch is our online catalog PLUS links to articles, ebooks, etc.  A good place to start!

  Besides these links, we can help you via

  • Email  library@btc.edu (M-F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

  • Phone  360.752.8383   (M-F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

  • Ask the Library  24/7  (24/7)

  • Consult a Librarian (by appointment)

• What are Research Guides and how do I find them?

   

  Research Guides provide online directions and links to conducting research on different subjects. They often include online video tutorials for using subject-specific databases.  For example, the Research Guide for BIO160 includes information on how to find online resources (using videos and links) for the three types of information sources required for the biology research paper. It also includes information on the assignment, how to cite references, and more.

  Check the A-Z list of Research Guides to see if there is one for your class.  And check out our Research Workshop (with how-to videos) - it covers all subjects and gives you some great tips and links for conducting your research.

   

• I need one-to-one research help!

   

  We are here to help!  Our Consult A Librarian service lets you set an appointment with one of our research specialists to help you with resources, keyword searching, citations - all the information you'll need to get that research project going and finished!

   

• I'm an instructor, and I'd like a librarian to visit my class to talk about research skills.

   

  We'd love to!  Please contact Dawn Hawley (dhawley@btc.edu).  We can also create an online Research Guide that specifically addresses your class research assignment.

• How do I learn more about Tutoring at BTC?

   How to access Tutoring Services

  • Check the drop-in tutoring schedule.

  • Submit a Tutoring Request form to the Tutoring Center.

  • To receive tutoring, you must be attending class and working on assignments.

  • If you need help in a subject that is not on the current schedule, submit a Tutoring Request form, and staff will attempt to locate a tutor.

  • Call or email Tutoring for more information: tutoring@btc.edu / 360.752.8499.

• How long may I check out library materials?

  Loan Periods

  Books - circulate for 2 weeks
  Videos/DVDs - circulate for 2 weeks
  Reserve Items - loan period is determined by the instructor
  Current magazines/journals - do not circulate
  Older magazines/journals - circulate for 2 weeks

  
  Please check BTC Library's Circulation Policy for more information.

• What are Library fees and how do I pay mine?

  Library fees can be paid at the Campus Cashier Office (360-752-8311) in the College Services building or through your ctcLink.  If a library item is not returned by the due date, you will be billed for the replacement cost of the item plus a $20.00, non-refundable, processing fee.  For more information, see the Library Circulation Policy page.  Please contact the Library (360-752-8383) with questions.

• Can I check out a book if I am not a student?

   

  Yes. More information about reciprocal borrowing agreements is found on our guide to Interlibrary Borrowing.

  To augment the collections and resources available to the Bellingham Technical College community, the Library has reciprocal agreements with Western Washington University, Whatcom Community College, Skagit Valley College and Northwest Indian College. 

• May I renew my book online?

   

  Yes.  Most library items may be renewed provided no requests are pending on the item and it is not overdue.  Reserve items may NOT be renewed. Items may be renewed by calling the circulation desk or by going to BTC Library OneSearch and selecting the "My Library Account" tab at the top, right side of the page. Under special circumstances, an additional renewal can be granted.

  Please also see our instructions for using "My Library Account."

• What does the Library have available for check-out, besides books and videos?

   

  The Library circulates more than books.  We loan laptops, iPads, cellular device chargers, headsets, mice, iPods, noise-cancelling headphones, bike locks, balls, Frisbees, croquet sets, and digital cameras. Loan periods vary; please contact the library for more information.

• Can I borrow textbooks from the library?

   

  Yes, although we do not have copies of every textbook, we do check out textbooks to students for the entire quarter if they are enrolled in certain programs like BFET or Running Start. We also have some textbooks on reserve with loan periods ranging from 2 hours to 1 quarter. Our Circulation Policies can offer more information about loans.

• How can I find out what books I need for my class?

   

  Please see the Campus Store website for more information about which textbooks you will need for your classes. The Library may have limited copies of some textbooks for use by students, usually for 2-hour in-library use.

• How do I get a library card?

   

  We don’t issue a true "library card" and students don’t need one to check out books or equipment. You just need to give us your name and student ID number.  You will need to show ID in order to check out library laptops and other technology. If you choose, you can obtain a student ID card at the Student Center.

• How do I request a book or journal article NOT available at BTC?

   

  This Guide is full of information about placing a request for an Interlibrary Loan.  Or go directly to our Interlibrary Loan Form and place a request.  

• How many books can I check out at once?

   

  There is no official limit. We just ask you don't check out all the books on a topic.

• I have fines. Can I still check out library materials?

   

  No, not until you have paid your fines in full.

• What is the Whatcom Collaborates program for borrowing books within Whatcom County Libraries?

   

  Anyone who lives, works, attends school or owns property in Whatcom County may access materials and resources at any of the collaborating institutions. You may borrow materials from any participating library and return them to any collaborating library in the county. You may access electronic resources onsite at these libraries and use onsite computers.

  
  You may register for an account at a Whatcom Libraries Collaborate location. Borrowing rules may differ, so please contact libraries directly with questions about available services.
  Bellingham Public Library
  Whatcom County Library System
  Northwest Indian College
  Western Washington University
  Whatcom Community College

• How do I reset my network password?

  This guide, BTC Technology Camp, contains information for setting up your BTC technology access. 

  • You may be able to set and reset your Network password through Outlook

• Is there one place I can learn more about BTC Technology?

   

  Yes!  We have a guide titled "BTC Technology Camp" for new or returning students who need to get their basic "how to" questions about technology answered.

• How do I log into BTC Student Email?

   

  Our guide, BTC Technology Camp, has a section about student email.

  You can get more help by emailing us: StudentEmailHelp@btc.edu

• How do I transfer my BTC email to my other email account?

   

  • The BTC Student Email (Outlook) can forward to the email you use most often.

  • To set up email forwarding:

  o Log into your BTC Student email.

  o Click on the Settings “cog wheel” in the upper right-hand corner.

  o Scroll all the way to the bottom and click on “View All Outlook Settings.”

  o There are many ways to customize at this page, but look for “Forwarding.”

  o Click on “Enable Forwarding” and input the email address where you want your BTC student email forwarded to.

  o Click on “SAVE” and you’re done.

• I'm having trouble logging into BTC Library Databases

  If you are off campus, you'll log into the BTC Library databases through our proxy server.  

  This guide offers troubleshooting advice, including: 

                I get an error message saying that the username and password are invalid

                I get an error message about cookies

                I've reset my password but I still cannot login

                I need help!

               You may also login via REMOTE DESKTOP

               There are open-access scholarly databases that don't require a login

• What is my PIN?

   

  What is my PIN default?
  • Your PIN is your 6-digit birthdate in the format MMDDYY (i.e. June 20, 1995 PIN would be 062095).

• I've heard I can download Microsoft Office to my laptop. How do I do that?

   

  How to download the Microsoft Office Suite:

  • This guide has step-by-step instructions for downloading the Microsoft Office Suite. Beginning in 2022, the download includes Microsoft ACCESS (PCs only). Mac users can use Microsoft ACCESS through Remote Desktop.

  • You can also access Microsoft Office in other ways:

  • You can use Microsoft Office via Remote Desktop.  This tab (on our BTC Technology Camp guide) will help you navigate BTC Remote Desktop access.  

  • You can check out a laptop from the BTC Library. All BTC Library laptops have MS Office installed.

  • Students have web access to Office 365;  login is required. (MS ACCESS is not available in the web version of Office 365).

  
  How many devices can I use Microsoft Office on?
  • You can load Microsoft Office on up to 5 PCs or Macs as well as any apps on mobile devices you own.
  • You can also use Microsoft Office via Remote Desktop without downloading.

  
  How long will I have access to Microsoft Office via BTC?
  • When you download the software, it will be fully functional until 1 year after you graduate or withdraw from BTC. At that time, you'll be given the option to convert your account into a paid subscription through Microsoft. If you decline, functionality of the applications will be reduced to viewing capability only. You will no longer be able to create or edit documents.

• How do I get help with Canvas?

   

  Try the Canvas 101 online tutorial!  It will introduce you to Canvas's basic features and technology requirements.  For more help, the Canvas Student Guide is another online resource about how to use and navigate within Canvas.   You can also reach eLearning staff during business hours directly by calling 360.752.8555, or emailing elearninghelp@btc.edu. 

• How do I download Microsoft ACCESS?

   

  Microsoft ACCESS is now included in the download of Office 365 - but for PC users only.  Instructions for downloading Office are found in our BTC Technology Camp guide under "Downloading Microsoft Office."

  Is there a Mac version of Microsoft ACCESS?
  The Mac version of Microsoft Office that students download via their email does not include ACCESS, however you may use ACCESS via Remote Desktop.  Remote Desktop instructions can be found here.  

• How do I access BTC Remote Desktop?

   

  Remote Desktop use differs between PC and Mac users.

  • There is a Microsoft Remote Desktop app available on the Play Store (PC) and the App Store (Mac and Apple).

  • Most PCs have the Remote Desktop application pre-loaded. Search your computer for "remote desktop."

  • There is a section on using Remote Desktop in our BTC Technology Camp guide.   

• Does the Library have VCRs?

  The Library offers access to a VCR player with headphones in the library. We also have a combination VCR/DVD player for three-day loan.  Please ask at the Library Information Desk for information about using the VCR or to check out the player.

   

• How can I brush up on my computer skills?

   

  If you are feeling rusty or unsure about using a computer, you can learn or review basic technology skills using the free Northstar Digital Literacy program.

• How can I find career coaching information online?

   

  BTC has a new career assessment tool called Career Coach.  At this site you can browse career options, find the programs at BTC that match your skills, and even work on your resume.

• Study Room Use

  BTC Library has six study rooms that are intended to support academic work by currently enrolled BTC students. They are not intended as general-purpose classrooms or regular meeting spaces. Because demand for study rooms can be high, Room Reservations help ensure fair and equitable access for all students.

• Study Room Reservations

  • A study room may be reserved either in person at the Circulation Desk or by calling 360-752-8383 during Library open hours.
  •  A room may be reserved for up to two hours. After the initial two hours, if the room has not been requested by another party, the reservation may be extended for additional time.
  •  A party may reserve a study room up to one week in advance and may have no more than two reservations scheduled per week.
  •  A party may not have more than one reservation on the same day.
  •  If after 15 minutes a party fails to arrive, the reservation may be cancelled, and the room may be released to another.

• Where can I find white board markers?

   

  The staff at the Library Information Desk can provide markers for the study room white boards.

• How do I add money to my print account?

  The Campus Store and the Cashier sell print cards with instructions on the back for redeeming the value on your account. If they are closed, the Library Information Desk has a limited number of print cards available for purchase.

• Where can I purchase a print card?

   

  The Campus Store and the Cashier sell print cards in amounts of $1, $5 and $10. If the campus store is closed, the Library Information Desk has a limited number of print cards available for purchase.

• Can I print from my laptop on campus?

   

  Printing is not currently available from personal devices. To print, you must login to your network account on a BTC computer.

• Where can I print in color? How much does it cost?

   

  You can print in color or black and white from the computers in the library, including the computers in the study rooms. The print jobs are released in the print/copy room and cost for color printing is $0.50 a page.

• How do I connect my personal printer to Remote Desktop?

   

  We have created a guide to using your local devices (personal printer, USB drives, local drives) to Remote Desktop.  It can be found in our BTC Technology Camp guide under "PRINTING /COPYING / SCANNING."  

   

• Does the Library have scanners?

   

  Yes, we have  one copier-printer-scanner. For assistance using these, ask at the Library Information Desk.

• Does the Library have a fax machine?

   

  No. There are free faxing services available via the internet or through commercial copy stores (such as Kinko's) that offer faxing for a fee.

• Where can I find information about copyright?

   

  We have a research guide titled "Copyright Basics"  that explains many of the ins and outs of copyright, including the Four Factors to determine fair use.