Introduction
The library is an integral part of an academic institution which supports instruction, research and extension activities. It is a learning and research center where students and faculty conduct intellectual activities.
With this concept, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Library continues to play an important role in the institution in providing the information needs of the CatSU community through the provision of organized, adequate and efficient information resources and services.
Brief History
The Catanduanes State University Main Library traces its beginnings in May, 1972. It was located at the former Catanduanes State Colleges (CSC) Main High School building, now the College of Education.
In 1973, it was transferred to the 3rd Floor East Wing of Administration Building.
In 1998, the University Library was transferred to its three-storey building where it is presently situated. This is to accommodate the increasing number of library holdings that cater to the additional number of curricular program offerings as well as to the growing student population of the University.
Objectives of the University Library
The University Library aims to provide the CatSU community and other clients access to information and maintain the library management system, acquisition and circulation.
In line with this, the following specific objectives are set:
- Provide assistance to clients in their use of library resources.
- Acquire updated books and other state of the art ICT facilities and equipment.
- Maintain Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC)/Card Catalog.
- Sustain access for users with physical disabilities.
- Digitize fragile, deteriorating, and/or easily damaged materials.
- Maintain air-conditioned room for storage of sensitive materials.
- Supervise mini library operation.
Library Sections, Facilities And Services
Library Sections and Facilities
The University Library holds various collections which are divided into the different sections.
The General Circulation and Reserve Section contains the bulk of the library collection which follows the open-shelf system. It houses the collection of books in computer science, history, psychology, social science, engineering, nursing, education and other allied fields.
The Filipiniana Section and Local History Collection houses a collection of publications about the Philippines regardless of author and imprint, and books written in Filipino language.
- Vertical files containing newspaper clippings, pamphlets and other miscellaneous materials relating to persons, places, organizations, business, government and educational information. They are classified and arranged alphabetically by subject and stored in a file cabinet.
- Periodical indexes which are selected articles taken from journals and magazines classified and arranged alphabetically by subject.
The Graduate Studies and Reference Section houses a collection of books in the fields of specialization including theses and dissertations.
The Institutional Archives contains preserved records and photographs of the institution.
The University Library also houses several facilities aimed to enrich learning through provision of technology, audiovisual and instructional media.
The Multimedia Center houses the collection of audiovisual and other non-print resources of the library such as audio and video tapes and recordings, and multimedia sources in CD-ROM. In addition, an array of audiovisual projection equipments and services are available. Scheduling of audiovisual facilities such as the Little Theater and Audiovisual Room is also handled by the Center.
Library Services
Circulation Service
Circulation Service include functions such as lending, returning and renewing of books and other library materials; assisting library patrons with the location of library materials; reporting of library fines; recalling of overdue library materials; shelving of books and shelf reading, among others.
Reference and Information Services
- Current Awareness Services. Relevant articles from recent periodicals in different areas of disciplines are disseminated to the respective Deans of Colleges and heads of different departments through the Current Awareness Services.
- Book Display. The Book Display is a regular library feature where new books are placed on display for browsing after which they are finally placed into circulation.
- Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC). The OPAC facilitates the search for materials for the right topic using computer instead of traditional card catalog.
- STARBOOKS. The STARBOOKS (Science and Technology Academic and Research Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station) contains thousands of digitized science and technology resources in various formats (text and video/audio) placed in specially designed “pods” set in a user-friendly interface.
Multimedia Services
Multimedia services provide technical assistance in using the audiovisual materials, equipment and facilities of the University Library.
Library Rules and Regulations
- All bona-fide members of the Catanduanes State University (students, faculty and employees)
- CatSU alumni
- Non-CatSU and other researchers
Authorized Users
The resources of the Library are open to the following, subject to rules and regulations governing their use:
Library Card
The Library Identification card is a basic requirement for the use of the library information resources and its facilities. The NO LIBRARY CARD, NO ENTRY policy is strictly enforced. The Library Card is presented upon entry and every time a book or material is borrowed and is non-transferrable.
I. Application for Library Card
- New students (freshmen and transferees) applying for a Library Card shall be required to:
- Present Certificate of Enrolment (COE) for the current semester;
- Fill out the Application Form of Student’s Library Card (Annex A);
- Submit two (2) copies of recent 1x1 ID picture; and
- Pay P100.00 Library Card fee to the Cashiering Office.
- Old Students with Library Cards shall be required to:
- Present Certificate of Enrolment (COE) for the current semester;
- Have the Library Card validated by the Librarian.
The detailed procedure is included in the Issuance of Library Card Work Instruction (Annex E).
- Present to the Librarian an official request together with a certification from the Librarian/Dean/School head as to the need for such service.
- Seek approval from the University Librarian.
- Pay the library service fee of P100.00/day at the Cashier’s Office.
- Present approved request together with the Official Receipt to the University Librarian.
- Fill out the Library System Registration Form for Outside Researcher (Annex C).
CatSU Students
CatSU Faculty and Employee
Faculty and employees of the CatSU are required to fill up the Library System Registration Form for Faculty/Employee (Annex B) before using the library information resources and facilities.
CatSU Alumni
Alumni of the CatSU are allowed to use the library services upon presentation of the Alumni Identification Card duly signed by the CatSU Alumni and Placement Officer.
Non-CatSU and Other Researchers
Other researchers may use the library resources within the library premises subject to the following conditions:
II. Misuse of Library Cards
This pertains to the lending of library cards to other users, and substituting pictures other than the legitimate card holder.
In cases where students misuse their library cards, the following penalties will be imposed:
- First Offense: Written Warning
- Second Offense: Suspension of library privileges for 1 month
- Third Offense: Suspension of library privileges for one semester
III. Loss of Library Card
- Lost card should be reported to the librarian anytime during library hours.
- A replacement card shall be issued only upon presentation of Affidavit of Loss, official receipt as proof of payment of P100.00 library card fee, and submission of 1 copy of 1x1 recent ID picture.
IV. Mutilated and Expired Library Card
- Mutilated and expired library card should be surrendered to the Library for replacement.
- A replacement card will be issued upon presentation of Official Receipt for payment of P100.00 library card fee and submission of 1 copy of 1x1 recent ID picture.
Borrowing Privileges
CatSU Students
CatSU students are allowed to borrow a maximum of three (3) books at a time to be used inside the library premises.
CatSU Faculty and Employees
Faculty members and employees are allowed to borrow a maximum of two (2) books at a time for a period not exceeding three days. Re-borrowing may be allowed only upon return of previously borrowed books.
CatSU Alumni, Non-CatSU, and Other Researchers
May avail of the library services and facilities inside the library premises only.
Use of Library Information Resources
- Reference books such as dictionaries, encyclopedias, directories, and similar materials are for quick consultation and are not to be taken out of the library or for overnight use.
- Reserve books are in high demand or required by faculty and may be borrowed:
- For two (2) hours within the library; renewable for one more hour if not requested by others.
- For overnight use starting at 4:00 PM and returned by 9:00 AM the next class day.
- General circulation books may be borrowed for one (1) day and re-borrowed if not needed by others. Up to three books can be borrowed at once.
- Theses, dissertations, periodicals, vertical files, audiovisual, and archive materials are for in-library use only.
- One (1) fiction book may be borrowed for one (1) week.
- Borrowed books and periodicals must not be passed on to others.
- Books may not be removed from the library without the librarian's permission.
Circulation: General Rules
The procedure in borrowing and returning materials is detailed in the Work Instruction for Circulation Service (Annex H).
Renewing/Returning Books and Other Library Materials
- Books must be renewed or returned on time at the circulation counter.
- Renewal is allowed unless the book is overdue or requested by another user.
- All borrowed materials are subject to recall at any time when necessary.
- Overdue books must be returned immediately upon recall.
Fines and Penalties
- Fine of P50.00 per day, including weekends and holidays if applicable.
- Fines must be paid at the Cashier’s Office, and the official receipt shown to the Librarian.
- Must be reported immediately.
- If the book is unavailable in the market, replacement cost includes current price + 10% processing fee (per COA Circular No. 77-42b).
- Replacement must be of similar or updated edition of the lost book.
Overdue Books
Lost Books
Decorum in the Library
- Maintain proper behavior and respectful relationships with users and colleagues.
- Observe punctuality and use official time honestly and effectively.
- Ensure proper use and upkeep of library facilities and equipment.
- Provide polite, fair, and efficient service.
- Address disturbances promptly and respectfully.
- Open-shelf system is used. Bags and belongings may be inspected upon exit.
- Bags, folders, and similar items must be left at the baggage counter.
- Cell phones must be on silent mode.
- Maintain silence. Avoid idle talk and noise.
- Eating, smoking, and sleeping are not allowed.
- Plugging of laptops or devices into sockets is prohibited.
- Keep the library clean. Use trash bins properly.
- Return newspapers and magazines to their proper place.
- Handle all materials with care. Writing in or tearing pages is forbidden.
- Return catalog trays after use.
- Do not remove catalog cards from trays.
- Push chairs neatly under tables when leaving.
- Violations will be reported to the Office of Student Support Services.
Library Personnel
Library Users
Mutilation or Stealing of Library Books and Materials
As provided under Article III (Student Conduct and Discipline) of the CSU Handbook: “Students shall be held responsible when using school facilities and equipment” (Section 1.4).
Under Specific Misconduct (Section 3.1), vandalism is considered a major University offense. This includes acts such as: “writing, or drawing on walls and pieces of furniture; breaking of glass windows, showcases, cabinets, electrical device, destroying tables and chairs, tools and other school facilities” (Section 3.1, No. 9). It also includes tearing off, mutilating, or defacing library books, magazines, and periodicals.
Likewise, “Stealing of any University property” (Section 3.1, No. 10) is a major offense. Any student who willfully damages or steals any library material shall face disciplinary action or be required to pay the replacement cost as outlined in the Library Manual.
Additionally, “Disturbing the peace and order of the University” is categorized as a minor offense.
The above violations shall be acted upon in accordance with the CSU Student Handbook.
Use of Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC)
The OPAC allows searching for library materials, book reservations, and viewing of overdue fines, under these policies and procedures:
- First come, first served basis.
- Maximum of 15 minutes per user; can be extended if no queue.
- One (1) unit per user; may be shared quietly by two users.
- Do not alter PC/browser/network settings.
- Searching Library Materials:
- Enter keyword or phrase (e.g., title, author) and press search.
- Select the most relevant entry.
- Use scroll buttons to browse more items.
- Book Reservation:
- Select a book title from the list.
- Click the
HOLD IT!button and select your option. - Click
SAVEto confirm.
- Canceling Book Reservation:
- Click the
HOLDStab. - Select item(s) to cancel.
- Click
REMOVEorREMOVE ALL.
- Click the
- Viewing Overdue Fines:
- Click the
MyInfomenu to view patron status and fines.
- Click the
Policies:
Procedures:
Use of Little Theater and Audiovisual Facilities
Policies
- AV equipment/facilities are for university instructional and related activities.
- Other purposes require SUC President III's approval.
- External institutions need prior approval from SUC President III.
- Only AV technicians may operate equipment.
- No use of the AV Room or Little Theater for fundraising.
Application
- Submit the Application Form (Annex D) from the College Librarian.
- Submit at least 3 days before the activity.
- Non-CSU users pay applicable usage and electricity fees at the Cashier’s Office.
Cancellation/Postponement
- Notify of changes or cancellations at least 2 days before the event.
- Send notice to the College Librarian.
Preliminary Preparation
All media not owned by the library must be submitted for preview by Multi Media Specialists at least two days before use.
Faculty/Adviser’s Presence
A faculty member or adviser must be present during the activity.
Cost
Any cost incurred shall be charged to the applicant.
Revocation of Permit
The University Library reserves the right to revoke permission if any rules are violated.
Library Service Hours
| Section | Schedule |
|---|---|
|
Filipiniana Section and Local History Collection General Circulation and Reserved Section Periodicals/Serials Section |
Monday – Friday 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM (No Noon Break) |
| Graduate Studies and Reference Section |
Monday – Friday 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM Saturday 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (No Noon Break) |
| Multimedia Section |
Monday – Friday 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM / 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Institutional Archives Section |
Monday 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM / 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Tuesday – Friday 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM / 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM |