Checkout & Renew
First Floor, Atrium Northwest
library.help@usu.edu
(435) 797-2678
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 Libraries. If you need help with checking out or renewing materials, please visit the library or contact the Library Help Desk at 435-797-2678.
Concurrent Enrollment Students
Concurrent Enrollment students can check out library materials with the same privileges as USU undergraduate students.
Visiting Scholar & Faculty
Visiting scholars and faculty members can check out materials with the same privileges as USU faculty. To be eligible, contact your hosting department to ensure you are registered. Once registered, please allow a few business days for your library checkout privileges to be updated.
A visiting scholar card provides access to the library’s physical collection only. If you have trouble accessing electronic resources, contact your hosting department to ensure your profile is correct.
UALC and GWLA Students
Students from institutions that are members of the Utah Academic Library Consortium (UALC) or the Greater Western Library Alliance (GWLA) may check out materials in person from USU Libraries. At the Library Help Desk, you must present your university ID and be able to log in to your institution’s website to verify your current student status. You are responsible for returning all borrowed materials directly to USU Libraries.
USU Alumni and Spouses
USU alumni and spouses of USU alumni or staff members can access the library in person and check out library materials at no cost. USU alumni should obtain the appropriate ID card through the USU Alumni Association. Spouses can obtain an ID card through the USU Card Office.
For more information, visit Alumni Using USU Libraries.
Community User Cards
Community members who do not qualify under one of the categories above can purchase a library card at the Library Help Desk for $25. The card is valid for one year and allows you to check out up to 10 books at a time for a three-week loan period.
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 | 50 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 & 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. 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 |
|---|---|
| General books | See Standard Policies |
| Bound journals | 3 days |
| Vet med books | 3 days |
| CDs, DVDs, and other media | 7 days |
| Theatrical scripts | 7 days |
Special Collections & 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.