320 FACULTY-STAFF CIRCLE
The Corriher-Linn-Black Library is the campus center for library and information resources and services. Library resources include over 300,000 volume-equivalents in a wide array of print and nonprint formats from books, documents, maps, periodicals, and newspapers, to microforms, audiovisual, CD-ROMs, and computer software. This abundance and variety of resources represent approximately 300 volume-equivalents per student. Library services include individualized reference, online database searching, group library instruction, on-site borrowing, document delivery system (including interlibrary loan service), and photocopying. The Library has been a selective depository for U.S. Government documents since the 1890s and a selective depository for N.C. State documents beginning in 1995.
In 2007, the Library underwent a yearlong renovation period in which capitalized on its existing tall ceilings, large windows and open public spaces. Part of the renovation was also the installation of high density or compact shelving for the library's collections which optimized the building's limited square footage. Other renovation features include the creation of an information commons, more attractive seating, the addition of more computers, a library instruction lab, a reading area, collaborative learning spaces, and a coffee and drink area in the lobby. A new asphalt parking lot was also installed adjacent to the building, creating additional parking spaces for residential students on campus.
The building attempts to wed the charm and eloquence of an earlier era with the sophistication and comfort of the present. The main level features the Wentz Reading Room and information commons with sets of large gothic windows allowing plenty of natural light. The main level also boasts a state-of-the-art instruction room with projection capabilities and 33 computers. Just above the main level and overlooking the information commons, the mezzanine offers soft seating flanked by an array of attractive study rooms. Most of the collection, aside from the reference collection on the main level, is housed in the lower level.
The Library provides access to library and information resources around the world. The Library also participates in the North Carolina Libraries and Virtual Education (NC LIVE) network for statewide library and information resources and the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) via the Southeastern Library Network (SOLINET) for international online access to cataloging and reference services. PLEIADES, the online library system inaugurated in 1995, provides computerized access to library holdings and electronic access to information resources on the Library's local area network (LAN) and the campus wide information system (CWIS). The Library, dedicated in 1952, is named in memory of Mr. Lotan A. Corriher, Mr. J.P. Linn, Dr. O.R. Black, and Mr. G. O. Lipe of Landis, N.C. Mr. Linn was a member of the Board of Trustees 1928-37; Mr. Corriher was a long-time member of the Board (1923-55) and a generous benefactor of the College.
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Corriher-Linn-Black Library