Lori Meadows
University libraries are a great resource for students, faculty, and the general public. While the University of Houston Libraries primarily serve UH students, faculty, and staff, they are also open to the public, including alumni and other visitors. Visitors to the MD Anderson Library can access library spaces and electronic resources, and borrow materials with an accepted outside borrowers card. Security turnstiles ensure the safety of library visitors, with UH students, faculty, and staff using their CougarCard for entry.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can use the University of Houston Libraries? | UH students, faculty, staff, alumni, and other visitors |
| Borrowing books | Alumni can borrow materials with a UH Alumni Association card. Visitors need an accepted outside borrowers card to borrow materials. |
| Entering the library | UH students, faculty, and staff can enter with a CougarCard. Visitors without a CougarCard may sign in with a valid, government-issued ID at the security desk. |
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Alumni access
On the other hand, some university libraries may not allow alumni access. For instance, during the pandemic, one university library did not permit alumni to enter, and even after the pandemic, the director chose to continue this restriction. Another university library treats alumni the same as community patrons, providing limited access to use public computers without any special privileges.
The University of Houston, however, does grant alumni access to its libraries. Alumni can borrow materials using a UH Alumni Association card, with up to 10 interlibrary loan active transactions at a time. They are also welcome to access electronic resources while visiting the library.
Alumni interested in accessing their alma mater's library should refer to the specific policies and procedures of their respective universities, as they may differ in their requirements and offerings.
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Borrowing books
The University of Houston (UH) Libraries allow only UH students, faculty, and staff to borrow physical or digital items from their collection for free. To borrow books, one must present their Cougar Card, which serves as their library card. However, alumni can also borrow materials using a UH Alumni Association card. They can also apply for a TexShare card to borrow from libraries across Texas.
UHD students, faculty, and staff can borrow items directly from the following on-campus libraries: M.D. Anderson Library, William R. Jenkins Architecture, Design, and Art Library, Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture, and Rebecca and John J. Moores School of Music. To borrow from the Houston Academy of Medicine - Texas Medical Center Library, UHD students, staff, and faculty must present a current TexShare card.
Rice University's Fondren Library allows UHD students, faculty, and staff to borrow up to 4 items directly from their library. Similarly, current Rice students, faculty, and staff may borrow up to 4 items directly from UHD's W.I. Dykes Library.
For non-students interested in borrowing from the UH Libraries, it is recommended to contact the library directly to inquire about options for external borrowers.
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CougarCard requirements
The Cougar Card is used to access academic and administrative buildings, computer labs, the Campus Recreation & Wellness Center, on- and off-campus residential housing, the MD Anderson Library, as well as athletic and special events. Cougar Cards are also used for meal plans, Cougar Cash, and ShastaBUCKS transactions. The digital Cougar Card is available in the UH Go app and can be used to access approved gated parking locations and for testing verification at CASA.
To obtain a Cougar Card, all students, faculty, and staff must submit a photo through MyPhoto in AccessUH. If the cardholder does not have AccessUH credentials, they must email their photo to [email protected], along with their first name, last name, and PSID. Photo requirements must be reviewed before submission. Once the photo is approved, the cardholder will receive an email confirmation and will have to schedule an appointment or join the virtual queue for same-day service through CougarQ for pick-up. CougarQ is available in AccessUH.
The Cougar Card remains the property of the University and must be returned upon withdrawal or termination of employment.
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Visitor access
Visitors are welcome to use the library spaces at the University of Houston. The University of Houston Libraries consist of the MD Anderson Library, the William R. Jenkins Architecture, Design, and Art Library, the Health Sciences Library, and the Music Library.
To enter the MD Anderson Library, visitors without a digital or physical Cougar Card may sign in with a valid, government-issued ID at the security desk. Non-UH visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult with a valid photo ID.
To borrow materials, visitors will need an accepted outside borrowers card. Visitors are also welcome to access electronic resources while visiting.
Alumni can borrow materials using a UH Alumni Association card. They can have up to 10 interlibrary loan active transactions at a time.
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Safety measures
Code of Conduct
Publish a clear code of acceptable conduct with consequences for violations. This can include expectations for behaviour, respect for others, and guidelines for using library resources.
Campus Safety Resources
Provide links to campus safety resources on the library website or have them available at the front desk. This can include information on police-sponsored student escort services, emergency contacts, and reporting procedures for lost property or theft.
Special Collections
For rare or valuable items, implement special access procedures. This may include requiring supervision or additional identification checks to ensure the security of these collections.
Personal Safety
Academic libraries should have a page or section on their website dedicated to personal safety tips for patrons and staff. This can include precautions against acts of violence, information on reporting procedures, and relevant campus or local resources.
Security Cameras and Disaster Preparedness
Consider installing security cameras to monitor activity within the library. Additionally, develop a disaster preparedness plan to address potential emergencies, such as fires, natural disasters, or active shooter situations.
Staff Training
Provide staff with training on security risks and personal safety measures. This can include how to identify and address potential threats, as well as procedures to follow in case of an incident.
By implementing these measures, universities can help ensure the safety and security of non-students using their library facilities. These precautions create a safer environment for all visitors and staff while also protecting valuable library resources and collections.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, anyone may visit the University of Arkansas Libraries and use materials on-site. However, remote access to subscription online sources is limited to faculty, staff, and currently enrolled students.
Yes, but external users are charged a user fee for borrowing privileges. There are exceptions for faculty and librarians from accredited institutions of higher education in California, current members of any Berkeley alumni association, and immediate family over the age of 18 of Berkeley faculty and staff.
Yes, non-students can enter the UMSL or Wash U libraries and use the guest wifi. However, they cannot check out books.
It depends on the college. Some colleges require an ID card to enter the library, while others do not check and are happy to have the foot traffic.
Yes, Webster library has a separate section with desktops and printers that are for public use. However, an ID card is required to swipe into the main library and annex after 8 or 9 pm.
