Library Use Policysee also Library Policies

Ithaca College Library policies are designed to promote and support the equitable and timely access to library materials for research, teaching, and lifelong learning by members of the College community.

All library patrons are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful of the normal activities and function of the Library, its staff, and of other patrons. To this end, library users shall not:

• engage in activities that deliberately annoy others or that disrupt library operations or the use of library resources
• engage in behavior that is hostile, harassing, or threatening to other patrons or to library staff members
• damage library property
• engage in illegal activity

The Library, working with the Office of Public Safety, reserves the right to restrict any individual from entering the Library or from using any of its materials, equipment, facilities, or services, if campus or library policies are violated.

Use of Library Materials/Services

Visitors are welcome to visit the library to use physical library materials and to request research and informational assistance. Note: Due to licensing and copyright restrictions, access to licensed library databases, course reserve materials, and Interlibrary Loan service is limited to current IC faculty, staff, and students via Netpass authentication.

Members of the following groups may apply for an IC Affiliate library card:

• Alumni
• Spouses and qualified domestic partners of current employees

See the Circulation Policy for information on Affiliate Library privileges.

Visiting lecturers/scholars, accompanists and any other temporary employees who are not provided a college ID card may apply for an IC Affiliate library card with photo ID and proof of affiliation through their sponsoring department or the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.

Members of the public who do not qualify for Affiliate status should request to borrow materials from the Library's collections through the Interlibrary Loan department at their local public library or home institution.

Media Resources

Members of the public may view/listen to multimedia materials from the library’s collection, subject to the conditions of the licensing contracts between the college and the vendors, using the library's listening and viewing stations. A valid picture ID will be held until the item is returned at the Multimedia Services desk.

Archives and Special Collections

Archival materials in the Ithaca College Archives and Special Collections are available for research by request during posted office hours and by appointment. Archives and Special Collections materials may be subject to access and/or copying restrictions stipulated by the College or the depositor/donor.

Quiet Study Zones

The fourth and fifth floors of the Library are designated as quiet study zones. Those patrons who wish to work in groups and converse should do so on the main through third floors of the Library.

Wireless Internet Access

Unsecured access to ICAirnet, the College’s wireless network, requires no configuration or authentication and allows visitors basic access to the Internet on personal devices. Information transmitted or received over ICAirnet is not encrypted and could be intercepted and viewed by other network users.

To use ICAirnet:

• Choose ICAirnet from the list of available wireless networks
• Enter an e-mail address
• Proceed unsecured

Public Use of Computers

Desktop and laptop computers, printers and related networked equipment for word processing, multimedia development, web browsing, and other personal computing tasks are available only to Ithaca College students, faculty and staff. Designated Quick Search Station computers on each floor provide access to the Library's online catalog.

Digital Media Lab

The Digital Media Lab is primarily intended to support IC student video, audio, and graphic design activities, in addition to technology-enhanced collaboration and practice for class presentations. General workspace for personal laptops is also available. The general lab space is a quiet workspace, while the collaboration stations and presentation practice space support group work and conversation. Technology in the Lab is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Lab is open all hours that the Library is open. None of the Lab's spaces is reservable.

Copiers

The Library offers self-service photocopiers/scanners and a microfilm reader for use by all patrons. The photocopiers accept ID Express and change. The microfilm reader is view-only for the public and does not have printing capabilities.

Cell Phones and Personal Pagers

As a courtesy to all Library patrons, cell phones and personal pagers should be silenced prior to entering the library. Please use stairwells and the front lobby for phone conversations.

Personal Materials

The Library is not responsible for personal items left unattended in the Library. Unattended personal items may be subject to removal. Items of value are sent to Public Safety for storage/retrieval.

Food and Drink

Food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed in the Library. Patrons are expected to demonstrate care for library materials and equipment and to clean up any spills and trash.

After Hours Building Use

Library use is limited to normal operating hours when the Library is staffed. Patrons are not allowed access to the Library when it is closed.

Inclement Weather

The Library follows College’s policy regarding closing during inclement weather and other emergencies. When possible, closings will be announced in advance via the Library’s website.