Library Guests

Policy Statement

The purpose of this policy is to define standards for guests to follow when visiting the university library. The policy will include procedures and requirements for visitors and list the library services offered to guests of Holy Family University (e.g., alumni, Nazareth Academy High School students, visiting scholars, etc.)

Policy

The library's mission is to support the academic programs of the university through the provision of high-quality information resources in print and digital formats, along with supportive services such as instruction in information literacy, use of library services, study facilities, computer and internet access, and the provision of one-on-one research and reference services. Every Holy Family University student, faculty or instructor, and staff member has access to the library building, collection, and services.

The photo ID issued by the university serves as a library card. Borrowers need their university ID to borrow books and other media. The ID may also need to be shown when using library computers, obtaining interlibrary loan (ILL) services or database access, and for reserving rooms.

Individuals who are not affiliated with the university are generally not permitted to use the library building or library services and resources; however, exemptions may be made at the discretion of the library staff. Affiliated guests of Holy Family University include alumni, visiting scholars, Nazareth Academy High School students, and current affiliates of SEPCHE member institutions (with current ID from their “home” institution). These affiliated guests are allowed access to the library and are provided with courtesy services (for list of services and procedures please refer to the list below). \

The Philadelphia campus library and Newtown LRC do not act in loco parentis. Anyone who brings dependents to the library or LRC must supervise them at all times. University employees or students who leave unattended dependents in the library or LRC will be subject to disciplinary action; outside visitors who do so will be barred from future visits to the library or LRC.

1. Alumni
   • Privileges and procedures
     • Alumni will present a current alumni library pass in order to use the university library. These will be obtained from the Assistant Director of Alumni & Parent Relations.
     • Alumni privileges include: borrowing books and other media, access to university archives (prior arrangement must be made with University Archivist), research database and internet access (on-campus use only), and single-copy printing. Note: Interlibrary loan services and WIFI access are not available to alumni.
     • Alumni may visit the library any time during operating hours by pressing the call box button and identifying themselves to public safety; no appointments are needed.
2. Visiting Scholars
   • Privileges and procedures
     • Visiting scholars will present a valid university ID in order to use the library. These are issued by the International Affairs Office or other appropriate university representative.
     • Visiting scholars have access to all the standard library privileges and services and will include: borrowing books and other media, access to university archives (prior arrangement must be made with University Archivist), research database and WIFI/internet access, printing, and interlibrary loan services.
3. Nazareth Academy High School Students
   • Privileges and procedures
     • Nazareth Academy High School students (in uniform and/or with current NAHS student ID) may borrow books and other media, access the university archives (prior arrangement with University Archivist), and use the research databases (on-campus use only). Single-copy printing of research materials will also be allowed.
     • Note: Interlibrary loan services and WIFI access are not available to Nazareth Academy students unless the student is attending classes (Diocesan Scholar or HS Partnership status) at Holy Family and has an active university ID.
4. High School Partnership Students
   • Privileges and procedures
     • High school students taking courses through our HS Partnership Program will present a valid university ID in order to use the library.
     • HS Partnership Students have access to all the standard library privileges and services and will include: borrowing books and other media, access to university archives (prior arrangement must be made with University Archivist), research database and WIFI/internet access, printing, and interlibrary loan services.
5. Alpha House
   • Privileges and procedures
   1. • Alpha House students visiting the university library accompanied by Alpha House staff (teachers and support staff with valid university ID) are eligible to borrow up to 6 books from the curriculum library (juvenile catalog designation).
6. Southeastern PA Consortium of Higher Education (SEPCHE)
   • Privileges and procedures
     • Current affiliates of SEPCHE institutions (Arcadia, Cabrini, Chestnut Hill, Gwynedd-Mercy, Immaculata, Neumann, Rosemont, and Salus) will present a valid ID from their “home” institution in order to be issued a temporary HFU library card by the university Access Services Coordinator. Affiliates include current SEPCHE students and faculty.
     • SEPCHE affiliates may borrow books and other media, access the university archives (prior arrangement with University Archivist), and use the research databases (on-campus use only). Single-copy printing of research materials will also be allowed. NOTE: Interlibrary loan services and WIFI access are not available to SEPCHE affiliates.
     • It is preferred that SEPCHE affiliates call the university library before visiting but it is not required.