Coronavirus – Library Services FAQ

[as of 7/13/20 – subject to change]

What are the plans for library services and access for the fall 2020 semester?
In accordance with the Restarting Binghamton plan and its guiding principles, the Libraries plan to be open at the start of the fall 2020 semester – visit Restarting the University Libraries Working Plan to learn more.
Are library locations open this summer?
Bartle Library is open only to pick-up requested materials in the lobby area or to visit Special Collections by appointment only. The hours are 12-4 p.m., Monday-Friday. The remaining areas of Bartle Library will remain closed until the fall semester.
Visit Bartle To Go for information about how to request and pick up print materials. Materials from Science, UDC and Annex libraries will be sent to Bartle for pick-up.
Visit Restarting Special Collections to learn how to schedule an appointment.
The Science and UDC libraries will remain closed for the summer.
I need a print book in the stacks, how do I get it?
Our Bartle To Go service allows faculty, students and staff to request print material from our book stacks via our website using Find It! or via your ILLiad account. Visit Bartle To Go for more information.
You can also request a portion of a book (e.g., chapter or series of pages) for electronic delivery – subject to copyright rules. You may request your item, with chapter(s) or needed pages specified, via ILLiad or Find It! Processing times for digital items may be delayed.
We also have an extensive ebook collection – see our Finding and using ebooks guide.
Can the Libraries mail books to me?
We are not offering mailing services at this time. You may request a chapter scan via Find It! or ILLiad or look into our ebook collection – see our Finding and using ebooks guide.
How do I schedule an appointment to visit Special Collections?
Special Collections is open by appointment only from 12-4 p.m., Monday-Friday to Binghamton University faculty, students and staff. Appointments must be made at least 24 hours (one business day) prior to requesting the specific item(s) needed during the visit. We will continue to assist all researchers virtually as much as possible.
For more information, visit Restarting Special Collections. To schedule an appointment, send an email to speccoll@binghamton.edu.
Can I make Interlibrary Loan requests?
Yes, we are processing requests for physical and electronic articles and book chapters via ILLiad. Electronic requests will be delivered your requests to your ILLiad account. Be advised that delivery for all requests may be delayed.
How can I submit a Course Reserve request for the fall 2020 semester?
Visit Course Reserves to learn how to submit print and electronic requests for the fall.
To ensure items are available for your course at the start of the semester, submit your request by August 1. Items submitted after the August 1 deadline will be processed in the order in which they are received. Due to an expected increase in demand, scan requests may take longer to process.
How can I get research assistance?
For research assistance, our virtual Research Help service hours are posted on the Ask A Librarian.
Who do I contact if I have a questions?
Visit Contact Us for a list of department emails.
What online library collections are available?
Our online collections, including e-books, databases, online journals, video and other online resources, are available on- and off-campus. Visit our subject guides to learn about resources by topic.  If you have access issues, visit our Technical Help webpage.
How can I return my book or Interlibrary Loan material? 
If you need to return books, Interlibrary Loan items or other library material, you can return them to a library drop box located outside of the Bartle and Science libraries. You may also return any item borrowed from Binghamton University Libraries, including Interlibrary Loan items, to other SUNY Libraries and the item will be returned by that library on your behalf (check to see if they are open).
I cannot return my book or Interlibrary loan material, will I be fined? 
No. At this time, we are extending due dates until September 2 and suspending library fines. Books and Interlibrary Loan materials will be automatically renewed.
If you have questions or are experiencing a problem with your patron account regarding fines, fees or holds, email libnotic@binghamton.edu.
We will communicate when final due dates are reinstated.
Can I come to the library to print?
The Libraries, including the Information Commons, are closed. Contact the ITS Help Desk for the locations that have printing available on campus.
I am having a problem accessing an electronic resource.  Who can I contact? 
Please use this form to report problems with accessing library resources or services. You may also wish to consult the Libraries’ Technical Help page to review common issues and fixes.
Can I submit my undergraduate thesis for binding?  
The Libraries would be happy to archive a digital copy of your thesis in the Libraries’ Open Repository @ Binghamton (ORB). To submit your work, fill out the online Electronic Thesis form. If you would still like to get a physical copy bound, we suggest you search the web for thesis binding and use one of the options available to you.