Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a specific question, please ask a librarian. Allow at least two working days for a response.

Why do some EAL call numbers start with numbers rather than letters?
These are Harvard-Yenching call numbers. Before 1980 the C. V. Starr East Asian Library used the Harvard-Yenching classification system. After 1980 EAL began using the Library of Congress classification system, which was already being used by all other campus libraries.

Why are two editions of the same book sometimes shelved in different places?
Two editions of the same title may be shelved in different places if the initial edition acquired by the Library was accessioned before 1980, when the Library was using the Harvard-Yenching classification system exclusively, and the subsequent edition was acquired after the adoption of the Library of Congress classification system.

Why are so many of EAL's materials in storage?
EAL currently has shelf space on campus for only 30% of the collection. The remainder is in storage in NRLF. This severe lack of shelf space will be ameliorated when the new East Asian Library building is completed and ready for occupation, in late 2007.

I have the call number; how do I find the book?
Use the shelving charts on the Library's website and posted at various points in the Library.

How do I reserve a carrel?
Application forms are available at the Circulation Desk in the Durant Hall Reading Room. Carrel assignments are made within the first few weeks of the semester.

Can I renew books online?
Yes! Please refer to the instructions on the "Borrowing and renewing materials" page.

Why do I have to fill out a paper card to get materials from NRLF?
You don't. You can request materials through Pathfinder using your UC ID and password. If you request NRLF materials at the Circulation Desk, however, we will ask you to fill out a card.

Why do some books not appear in Gladis even though they are on the EAL shelves?
EAL is in the process of converting its card catalog into electronic format. Until this process is completed, some materials will not appear in Gladis or Pathfinder. Currently the amount of uncataloged items is estimated to be less than 10%. Please continue to check the card catalog for items published before 1981.

Do I need to look in Gladis and Pathfinder to find materials in EAL? What about the card catalog?
For all practical purposes, the EAL collection as represented in Gladis is identical to that in Pathfinder. For materials published before 1981, you should also check the card catalog.

For help with the UC Berkeley Library system in general, see the Help page at the UC Berkeley Library website.

The Library's website also offers library research guides to help you with your research, using electronic and internet resources, library catalogs, and specific subject-based guides.

Copyright © 2008 The Regents of the University of California. All rights reserved Document maintained by the C. V. Starr East Asian Library, Berkeley CA 94720-6000 Last updated 02/19/08