Library Briefings

Now in circulation

New guidelines for borrowing from the Art Collection

On August 1, 2006, the Library’s Art Collection instituted a new policy that allows most books in the collection to circulate to Northwestern University faculty, students, and staff. The loan periods are the same as those for all University Library books: a year for faculty, 12 weeks for graduate students, and four weeks for undergraduates, continuing studies students, and staff. Books may be checked out at either the Art desk self-service station or at the Library’s main circulation desk, but must be returned to main circulation.

Some Art materials will continue not to circulate: serials, multi-volume sets and catalogues raisonnés, reference books, folio-sized books, large photography books, and materials deemed too old, fragile, or valuable to leave the Art Collection (marked “do not circulate” on the pocket).

Because art books are often expensive and difficult to replace, replacement fees for lost or damaged books may be significantly higher than for standard books. Therefore, users are urged to take special care to protect these books from moisture; avoid placing paperclips, self-sticking notes, or other adhesive markers on the pages; and keep the books away from food, beverages, pets, and art supplies.

As an alternative to borrowing, patrons may take advantage of the reading room’s holding shelves, two copiers, and scanning station.

For more information on the Art Collection, visit www.library.northwestern.edu/art/ or contact Russ Clement, Head of the Art Collection, at r-clement@northwestern.edu or x7-6471.