Temple University Library: Access For Prior Students?

can prior students use temple university

The Temple University Library System is a comprehensive resource for students, providing access to millions of print and digital books, research databases, streaming media, and online research guides. The library system also includes special collections of rare books and primary archival sources. While the libraries are primarily for the use of faculty, students, and Temple community members, prior students and the general public can access the libraries with some restrictions.

Former students with an Alumni Card can enter the library by providing photo identification and signing an entrance log if requested. The public can also enter the library before 10:00 pm on nights when the library is open past that hour, provided they show photo identification, sign an entrance log, and follow the Library Community Standards.

Characteristics Values
Who can enter the library? Current Temple students, faculty, and staff with a valid Temple University ID; Temple alumni with an Alumni Card; members of the public with a valid government-issued photo ID
When can members of the public enter the library? Any night before 10:00 pm if the library is open past that hour
What must members of the public do to enter the library? Provide photo identification upon request, sign an entrance log if requested, and observe the Library Community Standards
What is the policy for minors? Minors under age 18 who are not enrolled Temple students must be accompanied and supervised by an adult caregiver at all times
What is the policy for guests at special events? The appropriate library department will notify security personnel ahead of time to make the necessary arrangements to allow guests to enter
What is the policy for participants in summer programs? Participants in certain summer programs, such as Upward Bound and Temple Minority Access to Research Careers (TMARC), will be able to enter the Libraries with their Temple IDs while the summer programs are in session

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Temple University Library access for prior students with alumni cards

The Temple University Libraries are a one-stop resource for online learners, providing access to millions of print and digital books, hundreds of research databases, streaming educational media, and online research guides. The libraries also offer the expert services of librarians with diverse research expertise.

Access for Prior Students with Alumni Cards

Temple University Libraries are primarily for the use of faculty, students, and other members of the Temple community. However, alumni are considered members of the Temple community and can access the libraries with their Alumni Cards. All library users, including alumni, are required to produce a valid form of identification to enter the library facilities.

Borrowing Privileges

Prior students with Alumni Cards can borrow books, DVDs, and technology from the Temple University Libraries. They can also borrow materials from other libraries. Additionally, they can access computers and online databases.

Partner Libraries

Alumni can also access and borrow materials from partner libraries, such as the University of Pennsylvania’s main library, the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center, and the SHARES partner institutions. To borrow materials from the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center, alumni must complete a form at the One Stop Assistance Desk and bring it to the library. To borrow materials from SHARES partner institutions, alumni need to complete and submit the SHARES application online.

Community Standards

All library users, including alumni, are expected to comply with the Temple University Libraries Community Standards, which include treating staff and other users with respect and courtesy, following borrowing procedures, and maintaining acceptable personal hygiene.

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Guest access for non-Temple University members

The Temple University Libraries are primarily for the use of faculty, students, and other members of the Temple community. However, non-Temple University members who are not affiliated with the University may enter the Libraries before 10:00 pm on any night the library is open past that hour. They will need to provide photo identification upon request, sign an entrance log if asked to, and observe the Library Community Standards.

Identification

Non-Temple University members must provide an unexpired government-issued ID, such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID.

Library Community Standards

The Library Community Standards include:

  • Respecting the rights of others and the Libraries' resources and facilities
  • Keeping the library free of disruptive activity
  • Maintaining clean and pleasant surroundings
  • Ensuring library materials are complete, unmarked, and well-organised
  • Respecting staff and other library users
  • Maintaining acceptable personal hygiene
  • Following the correct procedures for borrowing and returning materials
  • Complying with copyright restrictions and principles of fair use

Other Access Options

Non-Temple University members can also access the library by:

  • Visiting from a partner library: E-ZBorrow and SHARES partner libraries offer free library use and on-site borrowing privileges to patrons of other member libraries.
  • Obtaining a library card: Non-Temple members can get a library card to access and borrow materials from Charles Library. This card is valid for one year and allows the holder to check out up to ten items for eight weeks, with one renewal.

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Obtaining a library card for non-Temple University members

The Temple University Libraries are primarily for the use of faculty, students, and other members of the Temple community. However, individuals not affiliated with the University may enter the Libraries before 10:00 pm on any night the library is open after that hour. To enter, they must provide photo identification upon request, sign an entrance log if asked, and observe the Library Community Standards.

There are several ways for non-Temple University members to obtain a library card.

Community Computer User Card

You can apply for a Community Computer User card by visiting the One Stop Assistance Desk in Charles Library. You will need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID, showing that you are at least 18 years old. The library staff will ask you to fill out a short application, which requires you to have an email address, and they will make a photocopy of your ID. Your application will be reviewed, and if approved, your card will be ready for pick up within two weeks.

The Community Computers User card will allow you to log in to one of the 12 community computers for two hours each day. You will also have access to charging stations, limited courtesy printing, and scanning. You can also browse the physical collection.

PA Residents Borrowing Card

You can apply for a PA Residents borrowing card if you are a Pennsylvania resident. Visit the One Stop Assistance Desk in Charles Library and bring a valid PHL City ID or Pennsylvania State-issued photo ID, showing that you are at least 18 years old. The library staff will ask you to fill out a short application and make a photocopy of your ID.

If your application is approved, your card will be ready for pick up within two weeks. The PA Residents borrowing card gives you the same privileges as the Community Computers User card, with the added benefit of checking out 10 books at a time.

Temple University Alumni Card

Temple University alumni can obtain an Alumni Card, which serves as their library card. This card, along with a photo ID (such as a valid driver's license), will allow entry into the library.

Visiting Scholars

If you are a Visiting Scholar, you can request computer and library privileges through your sponsoring department. The department can request privileges through the Guest Access Request System in TUPortal.

Partner Libraries

Temple University has reciprocal borrowing agreements with several partner libraries. If you are a patron of one of these libraries, you may be able to obtain a Temple University Library card. The process varies depending on the partner library, but generally, you will need to complete an application or authorization form and have it approved by the appropriate departments at both your home library and Temple University.

Please note that the policies and procedures for obtaining a library card for non-Temple University members may change, so it is always best to refer to the official Temple University Libraries website for the most up-to-date information.

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Borrowing privileges for Temple University alumni

Overview

Temple University Libraries provide access to a range of resources and services for alumni, supporting their research and learning endeavours. The libraries are committed to offering a conducive environment for intellectual pursuits and social interaction, fostering mutual respect and responsible use of facilities.

Access to Libraries

Alumni can enter Temple University Libraries by presenting a valid Alumni Card along with a photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. This grants them access to library facilities, resources, and services, including borrowing privileges.

Borrowing Privileges

Alumni with valid identification can borrow books, DVDs, and technology from the library. They can also access and borrow materials from partner libraries, such as the University of Pennsylvania's Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center, through reciprocal borrowing programs like E-ZBorrow and SHARES.

Online Resources

Temple University Libraries offer a range of online resources, including databases, journals, and streaming media. However, please note that electronic resources are licensed only for current Temple students, faculty, and staff. Alumni may not have access to all electronic resources.

Community Standards

All library users, including alumni, are expected to adhere to the Temple University Libraries Community Standards. These standards promote a respectful, safe, and inclusive environment for all users and staff. Standards include maintaining cleanliness, respecting privacy, properly borrowing and returning materials, and refraining from disruptive or prohibited activities.

Additional Services

The libraries also provide alumni with access to computers and online databases. They can utilise the Community Computer Lab and access online resources with their alumni credentials.

Special Collections

Temple University Libraries house special collections, including the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection, the Ginsburg Health Sciences Library, and the Japan Campus Library System, among others. Access to these special collections may vary, and alumni are encouraged to check with the library for specific access requirements.

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Access to online resources for prior students

Overview

The Temple University Libraries provide access to a wide range of online resources, including books, articles, databases, and journals, to support the educational and research needs of its students, faculty, and community members. Let's explore the options available for prior students to access these online resources.

Temple University Online Resources

Library Search

Temple University's Library Search is a comprehensive gateway to discover various library resources. It includes:

  • Books & Media: Print books, ebooks, streaming audio and video, DVDs, government documents, special collections, and other online resources.
  • Articles: Scholarly journal articles, newspaper articles, and book chapters.
  • Databases: Searchable subscription and open-access databases with a range of source types.
  • Journals: Journals, newspapers, trade publications, and magazines.
  • Website: Information from the library's website, such as spaces, people, events, blogs, and services.

Additional Online Resources

In addition to Library Search, Temple University Libraries offer access to other online resources:

  • EZBorrow: Allows users to search for and request items from other institutions if Temple doesn't have them.
  • Databases: Temple University Libraries provide access to numerous databases for more focused research and article searching.
  • Online Databases and Journals: The University has a wide range of online databases and journals accessible to students and staff.

Access for Prior Students

Alumni Status

Alumni of Temple University can obtain an Alumni Card, which serves as a valid form of identification to access the library facilities and resources. Alumni are required to present photo identification, such as a valid driver's license, along with their Alumni Card.

Community Members

Community members who are not affiliated with the University can access the library and its resources before 10:00 pm on nights when the library is open past that hour. They must provide photo identification, sign an entrance log, and adhere to the Library Community Standards.

Partner Libraries

Temple University has partnerships with other libraries and institutions that allow for reciprocal borrowing and access privileges. Prior students may be able to take advantage of these partnerships to access online resources through other libraries.

While the primary focus of Temple University Libraries' online resources is to support current students, faculty, and staff, the options outlined above provide various avenues for prior students to continue accessing valuable online resources. It is recommended that prior students explore these options and contact the library for further guidance on maintaining access to the online resources they need.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, former students can use Temple University's library. They need to provide a photo ID (such as a valid driver's license) and sign an entrance log if requested.

Prior students must present a photo ID, such as a valid driver's license, passport, or military ID. They may also be asked to sign an entrance log.

Yes, prior students can only enter the library before 10:00 pm on nights when the library is open past that hour.

Prior students can access the library's print and digital books, research databases, streaming educational media, and online research guides. They can also seek research support and interact with library staff for assistance.

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