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BOOKS
Collection
The collection of books currently consists of 29.718 volumes (18/04/2011). Users of the library are granted free access to them. Due to space constraints connected with the need to adapt the old stable buildings to the Library’s requirements, most of the books are stored on compactus roller shelving allowing the storage of a great number of volumes in a limited space. They are arranged in aisles of mobile shelves in a room downstairs, accessible from the Reference Room.
Shelving
The shelving system is based on the numerus currens classification, which means that books are arranged in order with their inventory accession numbers. Books are not classified by subject on the shelving and it is therefore essential that users consult extensively the library catalogue in order to be able to find particular items.
Reference Room and Language/Carreer Collection
A separate collection of books such as yearbooks, encyclopaedias, dictionaries, atlases, directories, and other reference material as well as texts of EC/EU treaties with commentaries is separated from the main collection and placed in the Reference Room for consultation on-site only. Language manuals and career-related books are also separated and placed on a special shelf in the Reference Room.
Acquisition Policy
The Library acquisition policy’s main objective is to provide Library users with the most up-to date academic literature in the areas relevant to the educational activity of the College of Europe. The main fields covered are: law, economics, political and administrative sciences, international relations and contemporary history. Book selection is based on recommendations and suggestions from the faculty, academic staff and students of the College of Europe as well as extensive monitoring of the publishing market in relevant areas.
The Library cooperates with well-known book suppliers such as: Blackwell’s, Horizon Education , G+L and European Bookshop.
page updated 18/04/2011