FAQs
Browse the questions below to learn more. If you have a question that isn't answered here, please visit the Get Help page for more help. Or live chat with a librarian during library open hours.
What if I need a copy of my class textbook that's in course reserves?
How can I check out books (non-textbook) if I need a book for my assignment?
Further information on this will be coming soon. In the meantime, please email circulation@sbcc.edu
What if I don't know how to use the Chromebook I checked out?
The Chromebook Guide has many useful tips and instructions for using your Chromebook.
What if I don't have access to WiFi where I live?
We may have hotspots available for you to checkout. Please email circulation@sbcc.edu for more information.
What if I have books checked out?
You may be able to renew your title by signing in to your library account. If you can't renew, you can return books to any of the three book drops located on campus. Can't make it to campus, or have additional questions? Please email circulation@sbcc.edu
Can I still request an interlibrary loan?
Yes, Interlibrary Loan services are available. Please visit the Interlibrary Loan information page, or chat with a librarian, for more information.
Do you have any other information for online students?
Yes! Please see the following guides for more resources, tips, and information:Can I check out a copy of my class textbook?
While the library cannot check out the print textbooks this semester, we are in the
process of scanning our course textbook collection in order to provide students with
an e-reserve option. Please fill out the following form to request an e-reserve from
the library (you must be signed into your student email account to access the form)
https://forms.gle/iJm5HCjHv8fWrk9U8
Please note: The title you requested may not be available in the library, may not
yet be available electronically, or may be currently checked out. Library staff will
email you to let you know if the book is available and how long it is likely to take
us to scan it. Once an electronic copy of the title is made available and shared with
you, your access to the item WILL EXPIRE AFTER 1-DAY.
How much does it cost to print?
The cost is $0.10 per page for black/white and $0.25 for color. Double-sided printing is available, and costs $0.15 for black/white and $0.40 for color.
Can I print wirelessly?
Yes. Wireless printing is possible from personal computers and library Chromebooks. For help, see the wireless printing instructions on this technology guide.
How can I pay for printing?
The library only accepts campus card for printing. To add money to your campus card, please login to the campus portal or use the machine available in the library lobby. For help adding money to your card, view these instructions on how to add money to your card. If you do not have a Campus Card, you may get one in the Office of Student Life, located in the Campus Center (CC building).
Are photocopiers available in the library?
Yes, the three multi-use printers have photocopying capability, and are available for student use. They are located on the main level to the right of the front doors. Copies are $0.10 per page.
Do you have a scanner?
Scanning is available on the three multi-use printers located on the main floor. The library also has a stand-alone, high-speed scanner, and 2 flatbed scanners attached to computer stations. Priority is given to students who are registered with Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSPS) at these computer stations. Scans are free, and can be saved/sent as PDFs.
Does the library provide photo paper or transparencies?
The library provides plain white paper, but if a student wishes to print on another type of paper, students will need to bring it with them and consult with the reference librarian to see if the material will work with our printers.
Are computers available in the library?
Yes, we have 20 iMac computers, and 28 PC Workstations on the main level of the library. Computers are available on a first-come first-serve basis. To use a computer, users must login with their campus username and password. In addition to these desktop computers, 50 Chromebooks are available for 4-hour checkout from the front checkout Desk, for use on-campus.
What software is available in the library?
Each computer is installed with Microsoft Office and a standard suite of web browsers and media players.
Can I reserve a computer?
Students are unable to save or reserve a computer. Library staff members have the right to remove personal belongings that have been left unattended and make the computer available for another student.
Is wifi available in the library?
Yes, wifi is available throughout the library. Current students, faculty, and staff can access the wireless network using their campus username and password as the login. If you have any trouble connecting to wifi, please go to the Reference & Information desk.
Visitors to SBCC can obtain limited wifi access by accessing the "SBCC-Guest" wireless network and completing the SBCC Guest Registration form.
Can I print from my laptop computer?
Yes, if you log into the Chrome browser, you will be able to print documents from your campus Google Drive using SBCC Cloud Print. Please stop at the Reference & Information desk for assistance, or see the wireless printing instructions on this technology guide for help.
Can members of the public use library computers?
All computers in the library are available for use by SBCC students, staff, and faculty. Public users can stop at the Reference & Information Desk in the center of the main floor of the library for assistance searching for materials.
Does the library provide assistive technologies in the library?
The Library collaborates with the Disability Services and Programs for Students office to provide assistive technology equipment in the building. For a complete list of assistive technology equipment at SBCC contact the DSPS office at (805) 965-0581 extension 2364.
- The library has 2 accessible computers on the 1st floor for people with disabilities. Priority use will be given to DSPS students.
- Kurzweil 3000 (screen reader for learning disabilities). The program reads text scanned from a book or document or it can open and read a word processing file. The original page layout, including pictures and charts, etc., are maintained and displayed on the screen.
- Zoom text (screen enlarger low vision). Provides variable magnification and text to speech capabilities.
- JAWS (screen reader for users who are blind). Provides speech and braille output for most popular software applications.
- Optelec Clear View+ system magnifies text and photos with an average zoom range of 2.7X - 72X. is located at computer station DSPS 2
- Ubi Duo devices for persons who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- Three scanners with OCR (optical character recognition) capability, to convert print materials to a format usable with Kurzweil 3000, JAWS, or other screen-reader software. High-speed KIC scanner can also create an MP3 audio file from text.
- Height-adjustable tables in a variety of locations to accommodate wheelchairs
- Reference desk/Information area designed to accommodate wheelchairs
- Circulation desk includes worktable to accommodate wheelchairs
- Chromebooks have some available accessibility options
- Handheld magnification device available at Circulation Desk
- Technical support: Tom Harbeson, ICLC
- Training: Laurie Vasquez, Assistive Technologies Specialist, or designee
Users' responsibilities
It is the user's responsibility to be aware of due dates, as well as fines and fees being accrued, and to return materials by or before the due date for each item borrowed. These responsibilities are outlined in our Lending, Fees, and Fines Rules.
Library responsibilities
"The library profession has a long-standing commitment to an ethic of facilitating, not monitoring, access to information. This commitment is implemented locally through the adoption of and adherence to library privacy policies that are consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law." (http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill/interpretations/privacy)
The Luria Library protects confidentiality of its users based on the American Library Association Bill of Rights and the American Library Association Code of Ethics.
See: Policy concerning Confidentiality of Personally Identifiable Information about Library Users
Who may borrow from Luria Library?
Currently enrolled students and currently employed faculty and staff can borrow materials from the SBCC Library. In addition, any member of the public may join the Friends of Luria Library for as low as $10 per year. As a member, you may check out library materials.
How long may library materials be checked out?
The main collection of books and back issues of periodicals (magazines, newspapers and journals) may be checked out for for 15 days.
Reserve items are checked out for shorter periods of time, generally for two hours.
Can materials be renewed?
Materials from our main collection (not interlibrary loan) may be renewed by phone (call the Checkout Counter at 805-730-4430), in person at the Checkout desk, or online through your account, as long as no other person has requested the material. You may renew materials up to three times; if you need the item longer, please see one of the library staff members. Follow these directions to manage your library account, including renewing materials.
Community borrower members cannot renew online, so please give us a call. If in doubt, please contact us before the item is due.
Course Reserve materials must be renewed in person, by the time due. As long as no other person has requested the material, you may have it for another checkout. However, most course reserve materials cannot be checked out overnight.
How can I return library materials when the library is closed?
Campus bookdrops are available to return library materials 24/7/365. Materials are picked up daily by the library staff. One bookdrop is located on East Campus near the entrance kiosk in the passenger drop-off area and one is located outside of the library main entrance. Course Reserve materials need to be returned in-person to the front checkout desk.
Do I need a library card to check out books and other items at Luria Library?
Your SBCC ID card is your library card. If you do not have a campus card available, you may use any picture ID to check out materials.
Are there fines for overdue materials?
Yes. For details, see the Lending, Fees, and Fines Rules.
Will I accrue an overdue fine for returning an overdue book while the library is closed?
Yes. For details, see the Lending, Fees, and Fines Rules.
Can I check out materials at UCSB?
Santa Barbara City College students may use the facilities at UCSB, but will need to purchase a card ($100/year). See UCSB policy.
Contract certificated staff at SBCC may request a library card from UCSB at their checkout desk by presenting valid identification. You may borrow books for three weeks with unlimited renewals if no other requests exist for the title.
How do I request a book or article not available in the Luria Library?
All students, faculty, and staff in good standing (having no current lost or overdue materials) may request up to 20 items each year through interlibrary loan without charge. Visit the Interlibrary Loan page for more information. For students, the final day to request materials is the Friday two weeks before the end of the semester.
Can I make an appointment for help with my assignments?
Yes, please complete the contact us form with your request.
Where do I go if I need help while visiting the library?
If you need any help understanding how to write a works cited page, finding a book or periodical, or need any quick guidance on your visit to the Luria Library, our librarians at the Reference & Information Desk in the center of the main level will be happy to help you.
I need help with writing a paper, where do I go?
The Writing Center is located across the hall from the Luria Library and has a number of writing labs and online information to help you get your paper started. The Writing Center offers drop-in and by-appointment assistance with pre-writing, organizational, thesis and content development, sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, and spelling as well as research composition format.
Can I get help with my research and assignments without coming to the library?
Yes. Use our live chat, or call us! Our live chat (staffed during library open hours) and our phone numbers can be found on our library homepage. You can also use the contact us form to request help or ask questions.
My library materials are overdue. What should I do?
Overdue materials from the main collection may be renewed online, by phone, or in person as long as no other person has requested the material. Reserve items must be renewed or returned in person, at the Checkout desk.
How much are the overdue fines?
- Main Collection Book: after 21 days late or if lost, $15.00 processing fee per book plus replacement cost of item
- Audio Book: after 21 days late or if lost, $15.00 processing fee per book plus replacement cost of item
- Magazines: after 21 days late or if lost, $15.00 processing fee plus $5.00 replacement cost fee per magazine.
- Reserve Materials: $1.00 per HOUR up to $24.00 per item (including textbooks, chargers, headphones, markers, etc.), after 3 days late or if lost, $15 processing fee plus replacement cost of the item.
- Interlibrary Loan: $1.00 per day up to $24.00 per book. If lost, full charge as determined by lending library plus $15.00 processing fee.
When am I billed for an overdue item?
A Main Collection item that is 21 days past due is considered "long overdue" and a bill is applied to your student account with a $15.00 service fee, plus the cost of the item. If the library replaces the overdue item, the student may not be eligible to have the bill reversed even if the item is returned. Items held over a year beyond the due date are not eligible to have the bill reversed.
A reserve item that is 3 days past due is considered "long overdue" and a bill is applied to your student account with a $15.00 service fee plus the cost of the item. Students may be responsible for the full cost of the item, even if the book is returned.
What should I do if I lost the materials I have checked out?
Call the library immediately so overdue fines stop accumulating. Students are charged for the replacement cost, plus a $10.00 fee for lost materials. If the item is overdue, students are also responsible for overdue fees.
If you later find an item you checked out from our Main Collection, that has been paid for, we may accept the item back if it has not been over 1 year overdue and we have not already replaced the item.
If you later find an item from our Reserve Collection that has been paid for, we may accept the item back if it has not been over 1 month overdue and we have not already replaced the item.
Where do I pay?
Library bills can be paid online by logging into your campus account (look for the section on your campus portal homepage labeled "My Account" and select the link that says "Pay My Bill"), or in person at the Cashier's Office in the Student Services Building.
What happens if I don't pay my fees?
Students will be unable to register for classes, drop classes, or receive transcripts until their account has been cleared.
Where can I return library materials?
Reserve materials must be returned to the library at the front checkout desk.
Other materials can be returned to any one of the library's bookdrops, or in-person at the front checkout desk.
If you have used books in the library but haven't checked them out, please place materials on a book return shelf or drop them off at the front checkout desk.
Are the library databases and library catalog available from off campus?
Yes, all students, faculty, and staff can access our paid subscription databases from off-campus. All you need is your campus username and password to authenticate.
I don't know my campus username and password. Where can I find my campus username?
If you have forgotten your login information, you can retrieve your username and password on the campus portal login screen.
When I login to ProQuest, it asks for another username and password and I can't connect. Why can't I connect?
ProQuest may not connect correctly if your computer has security software installed and enabled (such as Norton Security or Zone Alarm). It is easy to configure these products so you can connect to ProQuest. Select the product you use from the ProQuest Support site.
I live in the community but do not attend SBCC, can I check out materials?
Yes. A community borrower is defined as a borrower who is not a Santa Barbara City College faculty, staff or student. A community user must be at least 18 years old. Children between 13 and 18 who are NOT enrolled in classes at Santa Barbara City College may be given a Community Borrower Card with parental permission.
How much does it cost?
$10 for one calendar year.
What do I need to apply?
A library card for borrowing privileges should be issued to a person upon presentation of: (1) a valid photo identification; and (2) any document showing the individual’s current address. An acceptable photo ID includes, but is not limited to, a valid driver's license, including a “federal limits apply” license, a valid passport from any jurisdiction, or a valid photo ID issued by any governmental entity, foreign or domestic, including a school. An individual’s photo ID may itself indicate, and thus confirm, that individual’s current address. If not, to show a current address, an individual may present another document, including but not limited to U.S. mail received at that address or a residential rental agreement. (source: OAG)
How do I apply?
Complete our Online Application and upload the required documentation. The online application is only available if you have an existing Google account. If you do not have a Google account, you can create one, or download and print the Application (PDF). Payment is received in the Luria Library at the Check Out desk. When payment is received, a Community Borrower card will be issued for a period of 12-months. We can accept cash or check.
How many books may I checkout?
A community borrower may borrow up to five items at any given time from the lending collection with the exception of items in the Reserve Collection and Archival Collection. Access to the library's online collection (databases and eBooks) is not available to community borrowers. Library materials are lent for 14-days and may be renewed one time - by phone or in person during open hours - as long as no other person has requested the material.
Can I use the interlibrary loan service?
No, interlibrary loan services are not available for community borrowers.
Can I use the databases and library computers?
No, library database access is limited to currently enrolled students, faculty, and staff only. Please see a librarian at the Reference & Information desk to search the library catalog.
Can I use the library facility?
Community borrowers have access to the Luria Library. Any part of the Luria Library may be used with the exception of the classroom, group study rooms, and library computers. Community borrowers agree to adhere to the Conduct and Honor Code as outlined in the College Catalog and the Board approved Standards of Student Conduct policies.
Are there any fines or fees?
An item that is 30 days past due is considered “long overdue” and a bill is applied to your community borrower account with a nonrefundable $10.00 service fee, plus the cost of the item. If the library replaces the overdue item, the community borrower may not be eligible to have the bill reversed even if the item is returned. Items held over six months beyond the due date are not eligible to have the bill reversed. If you later find an item you checked out from our collection, that has been paid for, we may accept the item back if it has not been over six months beyond the due date and we have not already replaced the item.
What is the mission of the library?
Embracing its slogan (Explore, Learn, Grow), the Luria Library seeks to inspire discovery by offering dynamic, innovative, and welcoming physical and virtual environments for students and faculty, and providing the resources, services, and instruction they need to achieve educational, professional, and personal growth and success.
What library statements and policies are available online?
- Accessibility Statement (2018)
- Collection Development Policy (2007)
- Disposal of Discarded Library Materials (1981)
- Interlibrary Loan (2015)
- Lending and Fine Policy (2018)
Can I post announcements or posters in the library?
SBCC-related posters or announcements can be posted on the glass windows to the right of the library entrance. Material may be removed at the discretion of the library staff. Please do not post any materials inside the library.
Are displays cases available for exhibiting?
Yes, we have several display cases for showcasing materials. If you have an idea for an exhibit, please contact the Library Director.
What is your cell phone policy?
Library users may use their cell phone on the main level of the library, as long as it is not a disturbance to others. As a courtesy, please set the ringer to vibrate or off while in the library. We do request that you refrain from cell phone use on the lower level and in the stairways. Text messaging is okay anywhere.
It's so loud. Are there any quiet areas in the library?
Yes, the lower level of the library is our quiet area where library patrons are asked to not talk or study in groups (with the exception of the group study rooms). If the noise level on the lower level is disturbing, please see one of the library staff.
Can I get food or drinks in the library?
Yes, the library has a full service cafe located on the main level. The hours of operation for fall 2019 are 7:30am to 6:00pm Monday-Thursday.
Can I suggest a book for the library collection?
Yes, please email the library at library@sbcc.edu with your suggestion.
Does the library sell any books?
Yes, we have an ongoing Friends of the Library book sale on the main level of the library. Most titles are donations and sell for $.50 or $1.00. We do not sell current textbooks.
Do you have a map of the library?
Yes, you can view the Library Map here.
What are the library's hours?
You can view the current hours and get general information on holidays and other closures on the Library Hours & Maps page.
Does the library have an archive?
Yes, we have a small, but growing archive. It currently includes a variety of records, publications, and images produced by and about SBCC. There are pamphlets, catalogs, schedules, scrapbooks, faculty-authored books, student publications, newspaper articles on SBCC, The Channels campus newspaper, accreditation and matriculation resources, programs and other documentation of special events, and some biographical materials on major SBCC administrators, faculty, and donors.
Consult this preliminary finding aid to learn more about what the archive contains and how the materials may be accessed.
Curious about SBCC history? Ask a reference librarian for help, and check out the Legacy Project, a first-person history of the college during this period to preserve an institutional record of the dramatic changes that occurred.