Reference & Research - A reference librarian is available at the library's Reference Desk to assist students with selecting and narrowing topics, developing search strategies, selecting appropriate information resources and locating and evaluating information. Polk State reference librarians are trained information professionals and experienced researchers. All Polk State College librarians have an American Library Association accredited Masters of Library Science or equivalent degree.
Ask a Librarian - Polk State College participates in Florida's Statewide chat reference service. Polk State also offers local online consultation through Ask-a-Librarian using chat, texting, and email.
E-books, online reference sources, full-text journal databases, and streaming videos are available for use from an Internet-connected computer or device on or off-campus. These resources are licensed for use by all currently enrolled Polk State students and all current employees.
Database access, click here.
Ebook access, click here.
A login is required to access these resources.
Borrowing of Materials - Currently enrolled Polk State students and currently employed faculty and staff may borrow library materials designated for circulation. No fines are charged, but delinquent items will bar a person from checking out additional materials and, for students, registration, transcripts, and grades may be blocked. A fee of $58.00 per item is assessed to the borrower of record for lost or damaged academic circulating books and $25.00 per item is assessed for lost or damaged leisure and children's books. All fees are forgiven if the lost items are returned. Photo identification such as a Polk State student ID card or valid driver's license or State issued ID card is required to check out library materials. Students may keep books for three weeks. There is no limit on the number of books that can be borrowed.
Renewing Items - Borrowers may renew library materials online provided they are not overdue. To renew online, click on Books/Catalog from the library's homepage. To renew online, click on MyAccount link from the catalog page.
Intercampus Loan – Borrowers on one campus may request available materials located at the other campus libraries. Items will be shipped by Polk State courier to your campus library for your pick-up.
Interlibrary Loan - Books and copies of articles may be obtained from other libraries by using the request link provided in the catalog. Usually, there is no charge, and most requests arrive in 7-10 days.