Checkout & Renew
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I find materials in the Library?
- How long can I check out materials?
- How many items can I check out at one time?
- What are the fees for overdue or lost items?
- Can I check out books if I'm not a USU student or staff member?
- What are holds and recalls and how do I place them?
- How do I check out books from other libraries?
How to Check Out Materials
Books and other library materials and technology can be checked out using your USU ID card. See Standard Checkout Policies for checkout times, how many items can be checked out at once, and renewal and hold policies.
Not a USU student or staff member? See the information below to learn how to obtain checkout privileges for USU collections.
Community User Cards
If you are not a current USU student or staff member, you can purchase a library card from the Checkout Desk for $25.00. This card is valid for one year and allows you to check out up to 10 books for 3 weeks.
Visiting Scholar & Alumni/Spouse Cards
Visiting scholars are can checkout materials with the same privileges as faculty. To be eligible, you must first be registered as a visiting scholar with your hosting department. Once complete, use our Visiting Scholar Card form to get checkout privileges.
If you are a USU alumnus or spouse of a USU staff member or alumnus, you can also check out materials for no cost by first obtaining the proper ID card from the USU Welcome Center. Spouses can obtain an ID card from the USU Card Office.
Extended Checkouts
Working on long-term research project? Eligible faculty and staff can keep items checked out for longer periods by signing up for our extended checkout service. Apply for Extended Checkouts.
Standard Checkout Policies
The following policies apply to books in the general circulating collection.
| User Type | Checkout Duration | How many books can I checkout? |
|---|---|---|
| Faculty, Staff, Emeritus Professors | 16 weeks | 100 books |
| Graduate Students | 16 weeks | 100 books |
| Undergraduate Students | 3 weeks | 35 books |
| Public Cardholders, Alumni | 3 weeks | 10 books |
Renewals
Most materials can be renewed up to 2 times unless a hold/recall has been placed on it. Technology, equipment, and study aids cannot be renewed.
Holds and Recalls
Holds will reserve an item for you as soon as the item is returned. Holds can be placed on items by viewing them in the catalog or quick search.
A recall will reset the due date for the item to 1 week from the date the recall was placed. Items are eligible for recall 2 weeks after they have been originally checked out. Fines for late recall items are $1.00 per day. Recalls can only be placed by staff at the Checkout Desk.
Specific Formats & Collections
See below for checkout information for specific formats or collections.
| Item | Checkout Duration | Where can I check out? |
|---|---|---|
| General books | See Standard Policies | Checkout Desk, Self-Checkout Stations |
| Reference books | 5 days | Checkout Desk, Self-Checkout Stations |
| Bound journals | 2 days | Checkout Desk, Self-Checkout Stations |
| Vet med books | 2 days | Checkout Desk |
| CDs, DVDs, and other media | 5 days | Checkout Desk |
| Theatrical scripts | 5 days | Checkout Desk |
Special Collections and Archives
Materials in Special Collections and Archives do not circulate, but can be viewed in person in the Tanner Reading Room, Room 035. Archives staff can also provide digital copies of materials. See more information about using Special Collections and Archives or contact scweb@usu.edu for help.
Technology & Equipment Checkouts
Laptops, media players, chargers and cables, and other technology can be checked out from the Checkout & Help Desk. See Technology in the Library for specific items and checkout times. Note, technology and equipment checkouts cannot be renewed. You will be notified of overdue items via email. There is no grace period for overdue technology items.
Lockers
Lockers can be rented for $10 - $15 per semester. For more information, see the Checkout Desk.