Use of Library Resources Policy
Context and Purpose
This policy and related procedures govern the use of services and materials provided by VCC Library (the Library) at Vancouver Community College (VCC; the College). In support of the education, research and activities of students and employees at the College, VCC Library provides access to: information resources and technology; study, group and research space; computers and printing; and equipment.
Scope and Limits
This policy applies to all current students and employees, and any community member entering the Library or using its resources.
Principles
- The primary purpose of VCC Library is to support education and research at the College, as well as College operations. The Library strives to maximize access to information and services for current students and employees, both in person and virtually.
- VCC Library’s goal is to provide safe, accessible and inclusive spaces, services and resources. The Library is actively engaged in Indigenizing and decolonizing its spaces, services, and resources.
- Library borrowers are responsible for the Library material they borrow and may be subject to penalties and sanctions if material is overdue, damaged or not returned.
- VCC Library complies with all legal requirements and licensing agreements when providing access to Library resources.
- The Library will establish agreements (such as interlibrary loan or reciprocal borrowing agreements) with other libraries when possible to expand access to resources available to our current students and employees.
- The Library actively works to protect the privacy of library users and their right to access information freely and openly.
Definitions
- Alums
- Graduates or former students of the College.
- Community Borrowers
- Members of the public who have purchased a library card for a yearly fee. Retired VCC employees and other categories of special borrowers may receive a free community borrower card.
- Interlibrary Loan (ILL)
- The cooperative exchange of items among libraries, in response to specific user requests.
- Library Privileges
- The rights and responsibilities of Library users, including how many items can be borrowed, loan periods, fine rates and use of all services. These will differ by category of user (e.g. students and employees have different loan periods for a book).
- Library Resources
- All Library material that can be borrowed or used on site by a Library user (including print materials, online resources, equipment, computers, services, group study rooms and facilities).
- Print Materials
- Physical items such as books, journals, and newspapers.
Related Resources
VCC Policies
- Academic Integrity (325)
- Appropriate and Responsible Use of Educational and Information Technology (505)
- Archives (521)
- Copyright (510)
- Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (501)
- Lending and Borrowing College Equipment (416)
- Minors on Campus (223)
- Prevention of Harassment, Discrimination, and Bullying (201)
- Selection of Library Materials (511)
- Standards of Employee Conduct & Conflict of Interest (202)
- Student Non-Academic Conduct (324)
Other Resources
- College and Institute Act, RSBC 1996, c 52
- Copyright Act, RSC 1985, c C-42
- Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, RSBC 1996, c 165
Generated at: 8:07 am on September 18, 2026