Photo Library
Experienced users: Go directly to the database >>
Welcome to the Virginia Tech Photo Library Database. Below you will find instructions on using this service.
The database was created using FileMaker Pro. FileMaker Pro's search features can seem complicated to the first-time user, so please take a moment to read through the following instructions carefully.
The database is optimized for use with Internet Explorer 7.0 or later.
Instructions
- The left column (Status Area) should be open. If not, click on the triangle located in the upper left corner of your browser to reveal the side bar.
- Once the side bar is visible, click on the magnifying glass to enter "Find Mode."
- You can search the database in a variety of ways (File Number, Date, Credit, Subject, etc.). Place your cursor over the box that corresponds with the way you wish to search and click. The box will become highlighted and a cursor will appear inside it. You may now type in the appropriate information to perform your search. Once all the information has been entered, click on the "Perform Find" button located in the left column.
Example: If you wanted to search for photos of Burruss Hall, click on the box to the right of "Subject" and type in "Burruss Hall." Then click on "Perform Find." - The results of your search will be displayed, five records per page. To view the next set of records, click on the right side of the book icon in the left column.
- Now you're ready to search the database!
After you've found the photo you want
When you find the image that best suits your needs, make a note of the "File" number or the "Trans" number that is listed for it. This is the number that you will need to give the Photography group in order for them to locate the image that you want.
Once you have located the images that you need, you can e-mail Jane Talbot (mjtalbot@vt.edu) or call her at (540) 231-7317. Let her know which File or Trans numbers you need, and leave your contact information. Be sure to include information on the image size/dpi that you prefer. Knowing which type of file you prefer is also helpful. If you do not provide the file type, a jpeg image will be sent to you. If additional information is needed, someone from Photography will contact you. If no additional information is needed, you will be contacted when your files are ready.
If you have technical issues, please contact Michael Kiernan at (540) 231-6992, or mkiernan@vt.edu.
Search tips
In order for searches to find matches, you must enter text exactly as it is listed in the database files. Sometimes this may involve some creative guessing on your part. For example, McBeth may appear as Mc Beth, and a search for one will not yield the other as a result. Keep this in mind if you are having trouble locating what you are looking for.
A few conventions
- "Commencement" and "graduation" will retrieve hits for any graduation-related photography.
- "Corps" and "Cadets" appear together frequently.
- "Diversity" will select photography related to diversity.
- "Drill field" always appears as two separate words.
- For proper names, try a last name search as well as a full name search. If all else fails, try some creative spellings ... and let us know if you find mistakes!