Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the Berkeley Information Network?
A. It is a resource file of local organizations, agencies, services, non profits, clubs, etc. The BIN has information on museums, disabled services, low-cost legal aid, recycling, schools, emergency dental referrals, parks, summer camps, senior resources, joblines, consumer groups, etc.
Q. Why do you call it BIN?
A. BIN stands for Berkeley Information Network.
Q. How long has the BIN been around?
A. Since 1980.
Q. How big is the BIN?
A. Over 3300 organizations are in the BIN.
Q. What is included in the BIN?
A. Agencies that are local or that serve people who live in Berkeley.
Q. What is not included?
A. Individual therapists, lawyers, doctors, etc, are not included. Except for bookstores, businesses are generally not included.
Q. My group isn't in the BIN. How do I get it in?
A. Contact the Reference desk for a BIN form. Return the completed form to the Reference desk or to the address on the form. You can also leave your organization's name and address on the BIN suggestion screen. We'll contact you.
Q. Can I reach BIN by phone?
A. Call the BIN line. 510-981-6166. A library worker can search the BIN files for you.
Q.What subjects are covered?
A Over 400. These are the broad subjects.
Q. What is the BIN Box?
A. It's a file with additional information on local organizations. The files are arranged by subject, from Animals to Women. Ask at any library Reference desk.
Suggestions
Feel free to leave a suggestion below. Responses to suggestions are posted on the Suggestion Bulletin Board in the lobby of the Central Library.