Fall 2020 Library Services and Access Guide

Recent studies have been conducted about the lifespan of the virus on library materials. We now know the safest way to handle most returned library materials is to place them in quarantine for 3-4 days. The following plans have been put in place based on these latest findings.

Until further notice, the libraries will operate a closed stacks system:

• Users will be asked to browse and request physical books and AV items via the CONSORT online library catalog rather than browsing and selecting items from the shelves themselves.
   
• If users would like to access an article from a print journal/periodical, they should make the request via their ILL account.
   
• Once a request is received, library staff will then pull the item or scan the article. Those making the request will then receive notification their item is ready, accompanied by instructions for how to pick them up at the front desk (or, in special circumstances, via curbside service).
   
• For those requiring same day access, we’ll do our best to accommodate in-person requests, but kindly request your help in keeping these asks to a minimum so library staff can provide the most efficient service possible.

Print course reserves, including textbooks on reserve, will not be available for the fall semester.

A select number of course textbooks are available as ebooks on the library's subscription platforms. A full list of titles for the current semester is here. 

Students can buy physical and digital textbooks via the OWU Campus Store. Have questions about bookstore purchases? Email bookstore@owu.edu or call 740-368-3396.

You can also check your local public library for ebooks they have available for checkout.

Need help finding ebooks? Contact us at libraries@owu.edu or 740-368-3225.

When requesting materials via ILL, CONSORT, or OhioLINK, please factor in the 3-4-day quarantine period mentioned above for any items you may need from another library.

Until further notice, all books should be returned to the library using book drops. 

• External book drop is located at the front of Beeghly Library, left of the main doors.
• Internal book drop is located  on the right side of the Beeghly circulation desk.

For media equipment or a large volume of returns, please contact library staff for further guidance at libraries@owu.edu or 740-368-3225.