Instructional Technology

This link opens to the Advanced Search page of the Library Catalog; all catalog items are physically located in Cook Library. To search all popular reading and movies, scroll to the Search Filters section and select the dropdown arrow that reads "all collections," to the right of "location." Then, scroll and select either Leisure Reading or Leisure Viewing. Finally, select "Search"—no keyword search necessary! When you find an interesting title, select it and read the summary. If you still like it, select Availability (to make sure no one else has claimed it!). When you're ready, select "Request this item," the blue button to the top left of the screen. Then, a library worker will pull the item from the shelf and you'll get an email letting you know when it's available to pick up from the Help Desk.

To search all children and young adult books, scroll to the Search Filters section and select the dropdown arrow that reads "all formats," to the right of "format." Then, scroll and select Children's / Juvenile. Finally, select "Search"—no keyword search necessary! When you find an interesting title, select it and read the summary. You can request these items just like you request leisure reading items.

You can get a library card in person, at your nearest branch library (there are 19 locations!), or online. Although e-cards (obtained by registering online) have some restrictions, they still allow you to use BCPL's online databases and other digital resources such as e-books, e-audiobooks, magazines, and streaming video via OverDrive/Libby, CloudLibrary and RBdigital. Anyone get an e-card, regardless of whether they live in Baltimore County! If you don't live in Baltimore County, you can even get a physical card on-site: Just register your card from another Maryland library or get an out-of-state library card.