Library Circulation Policies
Who may borrow materials?
What do I need to borrow materials?
Can I renew items online?
How can I get an item from another campus?
What about borrowing from other campuses?
What do I do if I lose an item or have a hold placed on my account?
How much is the fine for overdue course reserve materials?
- NOVA Students, Faculty and Staff (with a valid NOVACard)
| Resources | Loan Period | How Many? |
|---|---|---|
| Books | 3 weeks, if not on reserve 1 renewal | 10 books |
| Magazines | 1 week, if not on reserve 1 renewal | 3 items |
| Reserves | Determined by instructor: In library use only or 1, 3 or 7 days | 1 item |
| Audiovisual Materials | If not on reserve, 1 week, 1 renewal | 3 items |
- GMU (with validated ID card) - provide proof of current enrollment
| Resources | Loan Period | How Many? |
|---|---|---|
| Books or Audiovisual Materials |
3 weeks, if not on reserve 1 renewal | 10 items |
- Community Patrons, Driver's License with Northern Virginia Address
| Resources | Loan Period | How Many? |
|---|---|---|
| Books or Audiovisual Materials |
Books - 3 weeks, if not on reserve 1 renewal Audiovisual Materials - 1 week, if not on reserve 1 renewal |
3 items |
What do I need to borrow materials?
- A NOVACard is required in order for NOVA students, faculty and staff to borrow library materials. It may be obtained in person from the ID Card Office in Howsmon Hall, 3rd floor, room 311.
- Library cards are issued to GMU students at the Library Circulation Desk upon presentation of current registration at the university.
- Community patrons' ID cards are issued at the Library Circulation Desk upon presentation of a current driver's license showing a local address.
Can I renew books?
- Books may be renewed for one three-week period. When renewing in person, please bring books and your ID card.
- To renew your books online, click here and follow the directions.
- Books that are overdue or have already had a renewal cannot be renewed.
How can I get a book from another campus library?
- Students, staff and faculty may obtain materials from other NOVA campuses through intercampus loan, which generally takes about 2-3 days. Ask for assistance in placing an intercampus loan request at either the Circulation or Information Desks.
What about borrowing from other libraries?
- Public libraries (Prince William and Loudoun) permit direct borrowing with proof of current local address. The GMU libraries permit direct borrowing with currently valid NOVA ID cards.
- Faculty may request interlibrary loans from libraries outside the Northern Virginia area through the Collection Management Librarian.
What do I do if I lose a book? Have a hold placed on my record?
- Borrowers who lose library materials are required to pay a non-refundable replacement cost of the lost materials. Overdue materials that have not been returned will result in a hold being placed on the user's record. Users may not check out materials, obtain transcripts or register for classes until the hold is cleared. Library holds will be released when materials are returned or replacement costs are paid.
How much is the fine for overdue course reserve material?
- The fine for overdue course reserve material is $2 per day per item, with a maximum fine of $80 per item.