Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Library?
Located between the Medical Science (MS) and Medical Education (ME) buildings, the Schaffer Library is centrally located for easy access. (See Directions)
Is the Library open to all AMC employees?
All AMC employees and students have access to Schaffer Library's resources and facilities. AMC medical and graduate school alumni, as well as faculty and staff of the Capital District Psychiatric Center (CDPC), are also eligible for a complete service library card. For other available categories, contact 518-262-5530.
Is the Library open to the public?
The public is welcome to visit the Library and use the print research collection onsite weekdays between 8 am - 6 pm. Call 518-262-5530 with any questions.
Does the Library participate in the Capital District Library Council Direct Access Program (DAP)?
The Library is a level 3A participant: faculty and graduate students from other participating institutions may register to borrow up to 2 items at a time.
Where can I go for assistance in using the Library or finding information?
Librarians at the Reference Desk on the first floor help library users answer questions, conduct research and use library resources. You may contact the reference desk at 518-262-5532 or library@mail.amc.edu . The Reference Desk is staffed Monday through Friday, 9 am - 5 pm.
How do I look for a book?
The Library's online catalog provides access to all print titles in the collection and includes information about the circulation status of items. Books are shelved according to their call numbers and date of publication. Books that have been published since 1985 are on the first floor, books published prior to 1985 are on the fourth floor. Books published before 1900 must be requested at the Circulation Desk.
How can I access the Library's print journals?
This information is available in the Library's online catalog. A computer printout of a complete list of print periodicals can also be found near the catalog workstation on the first floor and at the Circulation Desk.
Where are the print journals found?
Journals from 2001 to the present are shelved alphabetically by title on the first floor. Journals from 1945 - 2000 are shelved on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floors according to title:
2nd floor - A-D
3rd floor - E-Prof
4th floor - Prog-Z
Journals from the mid-19th century to 1944 must be requested at the Circulation Desk.
How can I copy or print material in the Library?
A ComDoc card is needed for photocopying and printing in the Library. ComDoc cards cost $1.00 to purchase, and additional money must be added to print or copy. Photocopy machines are available on the 1st and 2nd floors of the Library. Black & white copies are 10 cents each with a ComDoc card, 15 cents each with cash. Color copies are 25 cents a page with a ComDoc card, 30 cents with cash. Printing is available in each computer area: 10 cents/page for black & white, 30 cents/page for color printing.
