Welcome to NOVA Libraries. Members of the public are welcome to visit our libraries to explore collections, use public spaces, access select resources, and connect with library staff. Whether you're pursuing personal interests, lifelong learning, or local research, we're here to help you discover information and opportunities for learning.
Using Library Materials
Required Card
Community patrons must have a Community Patron Card in order to borrow library materials. To obtain a Community Patron Card, community members must verify their name and show proof of Virginia residency or affiliation with a Virginia school. A Virginia driver's license or Virginia state ID covers both. Additional options include, but are not limited to:
| Name Verification | Residency or Affiliation Verification |
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For more information about Community Patron Cards, please contact a campus library.
Borrow, Renew, Return
| Borrow | Renew | Return |
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Required Card: Community Patron Card Loan Period: 3 weeks Borrowing Limit: 10 items total |
Library items can be renewed once, unless they are overdue or have been requested by other patrons. Items can be renewed:
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Library items may be returned at any NOVA campus library. For locations, see Contact Us. Please return breakable items directly to library staff rather than leaving them in an unattended location or placing them in book drop. |
Request Library Materials
Community patrons can request to have library items:
- Sent from one campus library to another
- Placed on hold at the campus library where the item is located
Community patrons can submit requests:
- In person at a campus library. For locations, see Contact Us.
- By contacting a campus library. For contact information, see Contact Us.
Community patrons will receive an email when an item that they requested is ready for pick-up. Emails to community patrons will be sent to the email address they provided when they obtained their Community Patron Card.
Overdue, Lost, or Damaged Items
NOVA Libraries do not charge fines for items that are overdue.
Library items are the property of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Library users are responsible for the care and return of these items.
Community patrons must pay the replacement cost of library items on loan to them that are lost or damaged. For more information, please contact a campus library.
Computer Use
Library computers are primarily for students enrolled in current classes. However, each library also has public use terminals available to anyone, providing internet access and access to library electronic resources. Guests can also connect their personal devices to the campus guest WiFi to access electronic resources while on-site, subject to licensing agreements. All computer users must follow the Acceptable Use of VCCS Information Technology (IT) Resources. For more information, contact a campus library.
Electronic Resources
Community patrons can access many of the electronic resources in the NOVA Libraries collection while at a NOVA campus library. Community patrons do not have access to library electronic resources from off-campus.
Suggest a Resource
Community Patrons can suggest a resource for the Libraries to add to their collection by using the Suggest a Resource forms below or by contacting a campus library.