Online Library Resources

​Frequently Asked Questions

• 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. 

• 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. 

• Can I check out my textbooks for the fall semester? 

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

• Why do I see books on my account after I dropped them off on June 8?           

Accounts have not yet been updated with the returned library books. The books will remain on your account until library staff are permitted to return to campus and check materials in at the Library.

• 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 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 5, 2021. (First extension was to August 28, 2020). Late charges will not be assessed during this time.

• Will I be fined for not returning my books?

No, fines will not be issued at this time. 

• 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?

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 any of your library account questions to: elaclibrarycirculation@gmail.com or nga@laccd.edu.  On the subject line of your email, please type either CIRCULATION HELP or TECH HELP, so we can connect with you as soon as we can.  
• 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. To get started, type in your name and click on "Start Chat"

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!