About the Library

Navigating through all of the DCTC Library's resources can be overwhelming. Our reference librarian, Barbara Tuttle, offers library instruction sessions to show students how to efficiently and effectively find the information they need.

The duration, location, and content of each session depend on the instructor's specific needs. A good session requires planning, so please try to schedule sessions at least one week in advance. To discuss or schedule a session, please contact Barbara Tuttle in person, at , or at 651-423-8345.

DCTC instructors may place items from the Library or from their own personal collections on reserve. Reserve items are kept behind the circulation desk and may be checked out for up to two hours. Students may not leave the Library with reserve items. By limiting check-out time for reserve items, every student gets a chance to use the material assigned by an instructor.

You can view the current reserve collection at MnPALS Plus Course Reserves. To place items on reserve, please contact Michael Kirby in person, at , or at 651-423-8406.

DCTC instructors may suggest books, videos, or periodical subscriptions for purchase by the Library. Suggested titles must meet the Library's collection development criteria, including currency, objectivity, and cost.

If you would like to suggest a title for addition to our collection, please contact Michael Kirby in person, at , or at 651-423-8406.

Who can check out items?

• Current DCTC students, faculty, and staff with a valid, activated ID card and no blocks on their account
• Current MnSCU students, faculty, and staff with a valid, activated ID card and no blocks on their account
• Dakota County residents (see a librarian for details)

How long can items be checked out?

• Books - three weeks
• Periodicals - one week (the most recent issue may not leave the Library)
• Videos - three days (some may only be checked out with instructor approval)
• Newspapers, reference, and reserve items may not leave the Library

The DCTC Library does not charge fines for late returns, but your patron record will remain blocked as long as you have overdue items. You will receive two notices after an item becomes overdue. The third notice will be a bill for the replacement of the item, plus processing fees. Your patron record will remain blocked and, if you are a student, you cannot graduate or receive academic transcripts until you either return the item or pay your bill.

Our Library will provide informational resources to the students, faculty, and staff at DCTC and assist the users in locating and using these resources. Our goal is not only to support classroom instruction but also provide information and resources for students to complete assignments, and foster the development of the life-long skill of using Library tools to satisfy future information needs.