Visitor and Alumni Services
How to borrow
At this time, visitors to Western Libraries who are considered secondary users may only request materials for holds pickup.
For Western and affiliated university college alumni; students and faculty from other academic institutions; and retired staff who are not designated Emeriti, this means there is no access to stacks browsing or reading space at any of our library locations.
This temporary measure is in place to meet the demand for in-library services and space from currently registered Western students, faculty, and staff.
Western Libraries is restricting visitor access to the use of our holds pickup service until January 2022. This means visitors may borrow materials listed in our shared catalogue, Omni via the request feature in individual records.
After submitting a request for library materials, in order to come to campus and enter a library to pick up books, visitors must:
- Complete a daily symptom check (i.e., personal health attestation) through the Government of Ontario’s COVID-19 self-assessment;
- Agree to and comply with Western University’s health and safety measures; and
- Follow applicable provincial and local health and safety protocols, including quarantine requirements.
Visitors must also observe all Western University health and safety protocols while on campus, including wearing a three-layer, non-medical mask at all times inside library spaces.
Visitors are permitted access to a library location only to pick up requested holds and sign them out. Visitors will be asked to exit the library and depart campus thereafter.
We anticipate reviewing this Visitor Policy and in-library service access for secondary users in January 2022.
Renewals and Returns
You may renew items online through My Library Account or in person at any Service Desk at a Western Libraries location.
Items can be returned to any of our library locations or Affiliated University College Libraries in person or by mail.
Recalled Loans
Items visitors borrow can be recalled by another user. You will receive an email when items are recalled and you must return them by the date specified. You will get at least seven days of use before you must return the item.
Fines and Suspensions
Visitor borrowing privileges may be suspended if library loans are overdue, lost, or if you have over $20 in fines. Visitors and Alumni can pay fines online via credit card.
Tips for remote research
Visitors seeking remote/off-campus access to databases and online resources can explore free and open access e-resources.
Questions?
Email library@uwo.ca for questions about Western Libraries services.
For information about the university’s COVID-19 policies, updates, and procedures, please visit uwo.ca/coronavirus/.
