How do I get a library card?

You need to go to the circulation desks at the Thomas Jefferson or Ward E. Barnes Libraries and request a card. UM-St. Louis faculty, staff, and students use the University ID card as a library card.

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How do I check out materials?

You may borrow library materials by presenting your valid University ID card or a valid library card.

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How many books am I allowed to check out?

It depends on your patron group status. However, there is no limit if you are a UM-St. Louis faculty, staff, or student. There is a two item limit for reserve materials for all patrons.

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How much do I pay if I lose a book?

The replacement cost for a lost book is $120.00 plus a $5.00 processing fee.

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How long can I keep a book?

Loan periods vary according to the type of patron and owning libraries. Click here to see a detailed table with loan periods.

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How can I get a book that is already checked out?

You may place a hold on any checked out item except reserve materials. This can be accomplished through the MOBIUS catalog. By placing a hold, the book cannot be renewed. When the book is returned it will be placed on the hold shelf at the circulation desks and you will be sent either an e-mail notice or a letter notifying you to the book is available for check out.

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Who is eligible for Library Distance Learner Services?

The Libraries of the University of Missouri - St. Louis provide services to support our distance learning students. The UMSL Libraries define distance learners as students who are currently enrolled in UMSL credit, fee-based distance education courses and do not also attend classes on the UMSL Normandy campus.

These distance education courses include: UMSL online programs and courses, such as the online MBA, Nursing and Education classes; UMSL Interactive Video (ITV) videoconference classes attended at a remote site; UMSL Video Instructional Program (VIP) classes; and Off-campus classes offered at UMSL outreach education centers, such as the Mineral Area, Jefferson and St. Charles centers.

UMSL Ph.D. students, who are continuing to work on their dissertations after leaving the St. Louis area, may inquire as to their eligibility for Library distance services by contacting the Head of Access Services at (314) 516-7993.

For questions concerning eligibility or library services for distance learners, at the Thomas Jefferson Library please contact the Head of Circulation at (314) 516-5399 or the Head of Interlibrary Loan at (314) 516-5082. At the Ward E. Barnes Library please contact the Reference Desk at (314) 516-5576.

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