The Black River Technical College Library houses more than 18,000 books and provides access to over one million digital volumes, along with millions of articles from peer-reviewed journals, magazines, newspapers, dissertations, government publications, and more.
Learn more about the library's mission, services, and policies below. When you're ready to begin your research, explore the research options further down the page. If you need assistance, our contact information is provided below.
Mission
The mission of the Black River Technical College Library is to enhance learning by providing access to information that complements and supplements the college's educational programs and courses. The library seeks to provide ready access to information in a variety of formats so that students may successfully meet their academic, vocational, and personal development goals.
Our Values
- Approachable and knowledgeable service
- Easy access to information and resources
- Embracing new technologies
- Efficient and reliable service
- Professionalism in every interaction
Hours
Fall & Spring Hours
Monday - Friday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Summer Hours
Monday - Thursday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Hours are subject to the college schedule. Closing times may occasionally vary. Holiday hours will be posted as needed.
FAQs
Visiting the Library
Where is the library?
The library is located on the Pocahontas campus. It is adjacent to the Academic Complex at the southwest corner of campus, just off Hwy 304 East. Parking is available on the west side of the building.
Who can use the library?
BRTC students, faculty, and staff have library privileges. Your BRTC ID also functions as your library card.
Community members with a valid driver’s license and email address may also use the library.
Library Services & Spaces
What kind of resources or services does the library offer?
The BRTC Library provides access to:
- 18,000+ print books
- Over 1 million eBooks
- 100+ magazine and newspaper subscriptions
- 80+ databases containing millions of articles, videos, images, and other digital resources
The library also offers:
- Computers with internet access
- Printing and copying services (black and white only)
- Public seating and study areas
- Four individual study rooms
- One collaboration room equipped with a smart TV, computer, and internet access
- A reservable classroom
- Relaxation Room
- Mary Helen Jackson Children’s Reading Room
Does the library offer Wi-Fi service?
Yes. Connect to BRTC Guest. No password is required.
Can I print from my own laptop using Wi-Fi?
No. You may save your file to a flash drive or email the file to yourself and print using one of the library computers.
Can community members use library computers?
Yes. Three computers are available for community users during library hours.
Do you have a fax machine?
No.
Borrowing Materials
What can I check out?
Books in the library’s circulating collection may be borrowed. Materials in the reference collection cannot be checked out except with special permission from the library director.
How do I check out materials from the Paragould campus?
Students, faculty, and staff at the Paragould campus may request materials from the Pocahontas Library collection.
Steps:
- Search for the book using the Books or eBooks link on the library homepage, choose KOHA, search for book, and take down necessary information listed below.
- Email the library with your full name, student/staff ID number, and the title, author, and call number of the item(s) requested.
- Library staff will pull the materials and send them to the Paragould bookstore, typically by the next business day.
- Items may be picked up and returned through the Paragould bookstore.
Can alumni use the library?
Yes. BRTC alumni are welcome to use the library. Alumni may borrow library materials by presenting a valid photo ID. Please contact the library for additional information about borrowing privileges if needed.
How long can I keep materials on loan?
Materials are typically loaned for two weeks with one renewal option, for a total loan period of four weeks.
What if I forget to return a book?
After the four-week maximum loan period, an overdue fee of $0.10 per day, per item will be assessed until the item is returned.
How do I return materials?
Items may be returned:
- At the circulation desk
- In the return slot at the circulation desk
- In the outside book return located near the library entrance
Online Resources & Research Help
Can I access the library’s digital resources off campus?
Yes. Some databases require a username and password for off-campus access. Login information is available in Moodle under the “Library Resources” page.
What if the library does not have what I need?
The BRTC Library participates in the ARKLink consortium and can provide an ARKLink card that allows access to resources at participating libraries.
Materials may also be requested through Interlibrary Loan. Please allow 7–10 days for requests to be processed.
How do I request an ARKLINK card or interlibrary loan?
Contact the library for assistance.
Still Have Questions? Contact the library for additional assistance.
