Nov 22, 2024  
Traditional Undergraduate Catalog 2019-2020 
    
Traditional Undergraduate Catalog 2019-2020 Archived Catalog

Learning Resources


John Brown University Library

The two-story John Brown University Library-also known as the Arutunoff Learning Resource Center-is the central location for resources supporting the research needs of the JBU community. The library is an important part of the academic program at JBU and functions as a partner in the teaching/learning process. The main collection consists of over 115,000 items, including books, microforms, and DVDs. In addition, the library subscribes to more than 67,000 periodical titles, nearly all of which are available electronically. The library also subscribes to 144 electronic databases (full-text periodicals, online reference resources, and indexes) and provides access to 330,000 e-book titles.

The professional library staff provides research and reference services to both individuals and groups, and efficient interlibrary loan services to the JBU community. The library facility includes large and small study rooms, a classroom, presentation practice equipment and spaces, quiet and comfortable spaces for reading, and 46 computers for student use. The Writing Center and ITS Help Desk are also located in the JBU Library.

In addition to resources in the main library, a number of materials are housed in two library branches. The Music Library, on the lower level of the Cathedral, contains music sound recordings, scores, and appropriate listening equipment. The Career Development Center Library, on the first floor of the Walker Student Center, houses materials related to vocational counseling and graduate school opportunities. The Film Library is housed in the main library and contains films that have been selected based on their recommendation by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the American Film Institute, or Arts & Faith.

The gateway to the JBU Library is its web site, www.jbu.edu/library/, where information about all library collections and services may be obtained. The library web site features an online catalog that can be accessed from any computer with an Internet connection. Students can connect to electronic databases through the campus network and via remote access. Reference questions and interlibrary loan requests can be made online or via e-mail at library@jbu.edu.

The JBU Library belongs to several networks and consortia. To provide efficient interlibrary loan services, the library is a member of the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC), which gives our users borrowing privileges to over 250 million items held in over 72,000 member libraries worldwide. The library belongs to ARKLink (a consortium of 47 academic libraries in Arkansas) and AMIGOS (a regional resource-sharing network). The library is a charter member of the Christian Librarian Association Network.

Special collections in the JBU library include the published materials of the school’s founder, John E. Brown, Sr., materials of radio evangelist J. Vernon McGee, the Romig Juvenile Literature Collection, and the Gary and Carrie Oliver Marriage and Family Resource Room. In addition, the JBU Archives houses an extensive collection of artifacts related to the history of the university.

Information Technology Services

John Brown University has many technology resources available for students. All campus buildings and remote sites are interconnected with a network infrastructure that allows for authorized access from classrooms, laboratories, offices, residence halls, and remote locations. Wireless networking also extends accessibility in most residential and study areas throughout the university.

The general classroom laboratories are equipped with computers and instructional technology for hands-on instruction and are available for general computer use when class is not in session. The Library has general purpose, collaborative computing resources available days and evenings during the week. Cloud-based, network printing is available throughout campus for a small fee.

Each residence hall provides access to a 24-hour computer lab for student use. Additionally, there are other specialized computer labs housed in specific academic departments. These include Biology, Business, Chemistry, Construction Management, Engineering, Language, Music, Physics, Visual Arts, and the Writing Center.

Students who bring their own computers to campus may connect to the campus network using their provided network account. Once connected, students may access the Internet, email, class-related resources, references, and other university services.

The Media Lab, located in the Learning Resource Center (LRC), offers assistance in specialized printing, provides art and project supplies for purchase, and manages the rental of audio/visual technology used for academics and small events.

The Help Desk, also located in the LRC, is available for assistance with any questions or issues related to technology use on campus, with extended hours throughout the week and weekend.