Online Library Resources During Covid Closure

​Frequently Asked Questions (Updated for Spring 2021)

• When will you be open? 

We do not have a reopening date available at this time. The ELAC campus and library are closely monitoring the LACCD and LA County public health guidelines in determining when we can reopen. 

• Is there a way to chat, call or email librarians to get help with my assignments?

Yes! Librarians are available to help via the library’s homepage https://www.elac.edu/Explore/Library. Use the "Ask Us 24/7" pop-up to chat.

• Is there a way to chat, call or email library staff to get help with my library account and technology?

Yes! Library staff are available to help via the library’s homepage https://www.elac.edu/Explore/Library. Use the "Ask Us 24/7" pop-up to chat.

• Can I check out textbooks or other materials from the library? 

The library building remains closed and we are not able to check out books or materials at this time.

• Can I return my books to the library?

We are not accepting book returns at this time and ask that you hold on to any library materials until the ELAC campus and library are able to safely reopen or facilitate another book drop-off event.

• When are my books due?

Book due dates have been automatically extended once again and are now set to be due February 4, 2022. (First extension was to August 28, 2020. Second extension was to Feb. 5, 2021.) Late charges will not be assessed during this time.

• Will I be fined for not returning my books?

No. Please hang on to your books until the library is cleared to safely reopen.

• Does the library have an electronic copy of my textbook?

The library does not have electronic copies of textbooks. Textbook rentals and purchases can be made online through several textbook companies including Chegg and Amazon Textbook Rental, and you can order textbooks from the ELAC Bookstore online or by phone 323-265-8720. Be sure to compare textbook prices across platforms before deciding which textbook to rent or buy!

(Please note that websites like Library Genesis and Sci-Hub contain pirated materials under copyright.)

• Are textbooks still available for free through RedShelf and VitalSource?

No. RedShelf and VitalSource are no longer offering free access to electronic textbooks.

LIBRARY ACCOUNT AND TECH HELP CONTACT INFORMATION

• While we are closed, you can email your library account questions to: elaclibrarycirculation@gmail.com or nga@laccd.edu.  In the subject line of your email, please type either CIRCULATION HELP or TECH HELP.  
• We are also available to chat using the box "Chat with a Circulation or IT Staff." To get started, type in your name and click on "Start Chat" and select your circulation or tech question/issue.
• If the chat box is offline, you may also text or call us at 323-393-3262. Leave a message and a staff member will return your phone call.

RESEARCH HELP CONTACT INFORMATION

• While we are closed, you can email your Research Help questions to: library@elac.edu
• We are also available to chat using the "Chat with an ELAC Librarian" box or the "Ask Us 24/7" pop-up.
• If the chat box is offline, you may also text or call us at 323-387-3133. Leave a message and a Librarian will return your phone call!