Borrowing Services

The University of Calgary TFDL library borrowing services provides access to the book and digital resources on and off-campus.

Alumni Borrowing #

Borrowing Privileges #

  • UCalgary Alumni must obtain a Unicard from the Campus Service Centre before visiting the library and activating their account.
  • Number of loans: 10 items.
  • Loan Period: Three (3) weeks, and materials may be renewed twice (2 times), after which they must be returned. If there are no requests for the materials, they may be checked out again. If materials are not returned, fines will accrue at the rate of $5.00/item/day.
  • Items that are lost or long overdue will result in a $150 replacement fee.
  • No Interlibrary Loan Request access.
  • If fines are not paid, Alumni users may be barred from using the library.

Recalls #

  • Recalls occur when a borrowed item is requested by another user.
  • The recall period for library items is 10 days.
  • Check your email for a “Shortened Due Date Notice” for the new due date.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed or have their due date changed.
  • All regular loan items are subject to a recall.

Renewals #

  • All Alumni users can renew their items by logging on to their Library Account. Library items can be renewed twice.
  • All renewed items are still subject to a 10-day recall during the term loan period.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed.
  • Users with blocked accounts, due to overdue material or fines on the account, will not be able to renew their items.

Requesting Items #

  1. Sign into your Library Account.
  2. Click on "New Search" and search for the item you wish to borrow.
  3. Click on the item.
  4. "Request" the item.
    • For books, the Request link will be under "Get It."
    • For journal issues, you can request individual issues under the "Options" column on the right-hand side of the page.
  5. Select the pick-up location for your item(s).
  6. Click "Request."
  7. You will receive an email notification once your item is available for pick-up. You will have 7 days to pick-up your item(s).
    • Your item will be located on the Hold shelves/kiosks, filed alphabetically by last name.
    • If not picked up within 7 days, the request will expire and be removed from the hold shelf/kiosk.

Returning Library Items #

  • Any UCalgary library item with a regular loan policy can be returned to any library location.
  • All locations have exterior return slots located near the entrance/exit.
  • The TFDL has an external return slot located on the east side of the building (the side closest to the MacKimmie Tower).
  • There is a return bin located at the loop by the Rozsa Centre (see image below).
  • All fragile material must be returned to the location it was borrowed from.
  • A user is responsible for the item until it is received by the library undamaged, and removed from their account.

Fines & Charges #

  • Overdue Fines: $5/item/day for Community, Alumni, and TAL users
  • Overdue Technology: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Reserve Items: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Recall Fines: $5/item/day
  • Lost Replacement Fee: $150/item; replacement copies will not be accepted
    • Lost item replacement fees will be waived if the item has been returned in good condition.
  • Items returned damaged: $150/item
    • Examples of damaged books include, but are not limited to, water damage, mold, writing on the inside of the book, torn and or missing pages, excessive sticky notes remaining in the item, and/or damage to the outside of the book.
    • Before checking out books we encourage users to check their books for damage. If there is any damage please notify someone at the service desk or by contacting libinfo@ucalgary.libanswers.com so staff can make a note that the damage took place before you borrowed the item.

Fines can be paid:

  • Credit card by logging into your Library Account
  • In-person at the TFDL by debit or credit card
  • Fines cannot be paid over the phone or email. Cash transactions are not accepted.

Please note that the following are NOT acceptable reasons for waiving a fine:

  • Lack of awareness of library policies
  • Forgetting the due date, not renewing on time or the inability to renew online
  • Failure to receive an overdue notice email
  • Missing a due date because you are out of town

Account and Borrowing Blocks #

UCalgary Library accounts and borrowing privileges will be blocked when there is:

  • Fines of $50.00 or more.
  • There are outstanding overdue or lost items on the user's account.
  • Recalled material not returned by recall due date.
  • There is no email address attached to the library account.

Logging in to My Account #

Your Library Account provides an overview of your library activity, status, and contact information. You can view due dates, loans, requests, fines, and account expiry.

You can sign into your Library Account from the library homepage.

  1. Select My Account located at the top right of the menu bar.
  2. Select ContEd, Community Users and Alumni.
  3. Enter the first 9 digits of the barcode of your card and your password.

For ContEd, Community Users and Alumni all library notifications are sent to your personal email address. Your contact information and login password can be updated under the Personal Details section.

Account Expiration & Renewal #

  • Alumni accounts are subject to yearly account expiry based on the closest term due date plus one year.
  • Accounts can be renewed via in-person visit, email, phone call, or chat.

Physical Access #

Computer Access #

  • Alumni may bring in their own personal device and connect to the Guest Wifi. To access the databases and electronic resources, a guest login is required to connect to the airuc-secure network.
  • To use the library computers, Alumni must book a computer station in advance.
    • https://workrooms.ucalgary.ca/reserve/alumni-and-community
    • Each person can book 2 hours per day in one of 4 stations on the TFDL 1st Floor and must bring valid government picture ID to collect a Guest Login credential.
      • Guest logins can be obtained at the TFDL service desk Monday to Friday 9:30am to 6:30pm; Saturday/Sunday 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Digital Resources/Databases #

  • Alumni users who have been actively using their ucalgary email have off-campus access to a select number of databases as found on the Alumni Database List.
  • Alumni users do not have off-campus access to other digital resources such as e-books, or other databases not included on the Alumni Database List.
  • All users have access to Open Access resources off-campus.
  • Material provided through off-campus and on-campus access are only for individual study and research purposes only. Individuals are responsible for ensuring they are using copyright-protected works in accordance with applicable laws.

Community Users, The Alberta Library (TAL), CURBA & COPPUL Borrowing #

Borrowing Privileges #

  • Calgary residents can obtain a Community card by visiting UCalgary Libraries with a piece of government issued photo ID and proof of residency.
  • Alberta residents who reside outside of Calgary can obtain The Alberta Library (TAL) card from their home public library.
  • Undergraduate, Graduate, and Faculty associated with institutions who are part of the Council of Prairie and Pacific University Libraries (COPPUL) can obtain a COPPUL card from their institution's library.
  • Members of the Council of Prairie and Pacific University Libraries (COPPUL) or the Canadian University Reciprocal Borrowing Agreement (CURBA) are eligible for a Community card.
  • Number of loans: 10 items
  • Loan Period: Three (3) weeks, and materials may be renewed twice (2 times), after which they must be returned. If there are no requests for the materials, they may be checked out again. If materials are not returned, fines will accrue at the rate of $5.00/item/day.
  • Items that are lost or long overdue will result in a $150 replacement fee.
  • No Interlibrary Loan Request access.
  • If fines are not paid, Community, TAL, CURBA, and COPPUL users may be barred from using the library.

Recalls #

  • Recalls occur when a borrowed item is requested by another user.
  • The recall period for library items is 10 days.
  • Check your email for a “Shortened Due Date Notice” for the new due date.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed or have their due date changed.
  • All regular loan items are subject to a recall.

Renewals #

  • All Community, TAL, CURBA, and COPPUL users can renew their items by logging on to their Library Account. Library items can be renewed twice.
  • All renewed items are still subject to a 10-day recall during the term loan period.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed.
  • Users with blocked accounts, due to overdue material or fines on the account, will not be able to renew their items.

Requesting Items #

  1. Sign into your Library Account.
  2. Click on "New Search" and search for the item you wish to borrow.
  3. Click on the item.
  4. "Request" the item.
    • For books, the Request link will be under "Get It."
    • For journal issues, you can request individual issues under the "Options" column on the right-hand side of the page.
  5. Select the pick-up location for your item(s).
  6. Click "Request."
  7. You will receive an email notification once your item is available for pick-up. You will have 7 days to pick-up your item(s).
    • Your item will be located on the Hold shelves/kiosks, filed alphabetically by last name.
    • If not picked up within 7 days, the request will expire and be removed from the hold shelf/kiosk

Returning Library Items #

  • Any UCalgary library item with a regular loan policy can be returned to any library location.
  • All locations have exterior return slots located near the entrance/exit.
  • The TFDL has an external return slot located on the east side of the building (the side closest to the MacKimmie Tower).
  • There is a return bin located at the loop by the Rozsa Centre (see image below).
  • All reserve, technology, and fragile material must be returned to the location or reserve kiosk it was borrowed from.
  • A user is responsible for the item until it is received by the library undamaged, and removed from their account.

Returning TAL Items #

  • If public library items have been borrowed using an Alberta Library Card (TAL) and have a TAL flag, they can be returned to any UCalgary library location. Note, it make take two weeks or more for these items to be received at a public library branch and removed from the user's account. A user is responsible for the item until it is removed from their account.

Fines & Charges #

  • Overdue Fines: $5/item/day for Community, Alumni, and TAL users
  • Overdue Technology: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Reserve Items: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Recall Fines: $5/item/day
  • Lost Replacement Fee: $150/item; replacement copies will not be accepted
    • Lost item replacement fees will be waived if the item has been returned in good condition.
  • Items returned damaged: $150/item
    • Examples of damaged books include, but are not limited to, water damage, mold, writing on the inside of the book, torn and or missing pages, excessive sticky notes remaining in the item, and/or damage to the outside of the book.
    • Before checking out books we encourage users to check their books for damage. If there is any damage please notify someone at the service desk or by contacting libinfo@ucalgary.libanswers.com so staff can make a note that the damage took place before you borrowed the item.

Fines can be paid:

  • Credit card by logging into your Library Account
  • In-person at the TFDL by debit or credit card
  • Fines cannot be paid over the phone or email. Cash transactions are not accepted.

Please note that the following are NOT acceptable reasons for waiving a fine:

  • Lack of awareness of library policies
  • Forgetting the due date, not renewing on time or the inability to renew online
  • Failure to receive an overdue notice email
  • Missing a due date because you are out of town

Account and Borrowing Blocks #

UCalgary Library accounts and borrowing privileges will be blocked when there is:

  • Fines of $50.00 or more.
  • There are outstanding overdue or lost items on the user's account.
  • Recalled material not returned by recall due date.
  • There is no email address attached to the library account.

Logging in to My Account #

Your Library Account provides an overview of your library activity, status, and contact information. You can view due dates, loans, requests, fines, and account expiry.

You can sign into your Library Account from the library homepage.

  1. Select My Account located at the top right of the menu bar.
  2. Select ContEd, Community Users and Alumni. (this includes COPPUL users)
  3. Enter the first 9 digits of the barcode of your card and your password.

For ContEd, Community Users and Alumni all library notifications are sent to your personal email address. Your contact information and login password can be updated under the Personal Details section.

Account Expiration & Renewal #

  • Community, TAL, COPPUL, CURBA accounts are subject to yearly account expiry based on the closest term due date plus one year.
  • Accounts can be renewed via in-person visit, email, phone call, or chat.

Physical Access #

Computer Access #

  • Community members may bring in their own personal device and connect to the Guest Wifi. To access the databases and electronic resources, a guest login is required to connect to the airuc-secure network.
  • To use the library computers, Alumni must book a computer station in advance.
    • https://workrooms.ucalgary.ca/reserve/alumni-and-community
    • Each person can book 2 hours per day in one of 4 stations on the TFDL 1st Floor and must bring valid government picture ID to collect a Guest Login credential.
      • Guest logins can be obtained at the TFDL service desk Monday to Friday 9:30am to 6:30pm; Saturday/Sunday 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Digital Resources/Databases #

  • Community users do not have access to digital library resources off-campus.
  • All users have access to Open Access resources off-campus.
  • Material provided through off-campus and on-campus access are only for individual study and research purposes only. Individuals are responsible for ensuring they are using copyright-protected works in accordance with applicable laws.

UCalgary Students, Staff, Faculty, and General Associates #

Borrowing Privileges #

  • UCalgary Students, Faculty, Staff, and General Associates must obtain a Unicard from the Campus Service Centre before visiting the library and activating their account.
  • Number of loans: Unlimited.
  • Maximum Loan Period:
    • Students: 250 days (initial term loan + 1 renewal)
    • Faculty & Staff: 740 days (initial term loan + 5 renewals)
  • Interlibrary Loan Request access.
  • Items that are lost or long overdue will result in a $150 replacement fee.

Recalls #

  • Recalls occur when a borrowed item is requested by another user.
  • The recall period for library items is 10 days.
  • Check your email for a “Shortened Due Date Notice” for the new due date.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed or have their due date changed.
  • All regular loan items are subject to a recall.

Renewals #

  • All UCalgary Students’ library items will be auto-renewed, and can be renewed 1 time. 10 days before the term due date, all items that have not been recalled will be renewed automatically to the next term due date.
  • All UCalgary Faculty, and Staff’s library items will be auto-renewed, and can be renewed 5 times. 10 days before the term due date, all items that have not been recalled will be renewed automatically to the next term due date.
  • All renewed items are still subject to a 10-day recall during the term loan period.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed.
  • Users with blocked accounts, due to overdue material or fines on the account, will not be able to renew their items.

Requesting Items #

  1. Sign into your Library Account.
  2. Click on "New Search" and search for the item you wish to borrow.
  3. Click on the item.
  4. "Request" the item.
    • For books, the Request link will be under "Get It."
    • For journal issues, you can request individual issues under the "Options" column on the right-hand side of the page.
  5. Select the pick-up location for your item(s).
  6. Click "Request."
  7. You will receive an email notification once your item is available for pick-up. You will have 7 days to pick-up your item(s).
    • Your item will be located on the Hold shelves/kiosks, filed alphabetically by last name.
    • If not picked up within 7 days, the request will expire and be removed from the hold shelf/kiosk

Returning Library Items #

  • Any UCalgary library item with a regular loan policy can be returned to any library location (except the Business Library).
  • All locations (except the Business Library) have exterior return slots located near the entrance/exit.
  • The TFDL has an external return slot located on the east side of the building (the side closest to the MacKimmie Tower).
  • There is a return bin located at the loop by the Rozsa Centre (see image below).
  • All reserve, technology, and fragile material must be returned to the location or reserve kiosk it was borrowed from.
  • A user is responsible for the item until it is received by the library undamaged, and removed from their account.
  • All Interlibrary Loans must be returned directly to the TFDL or HSL service desk with their ILL paperwork.

Fines & Charges #

  • Overdue Technology: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Reserve Items: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Recall Fines: $5/item/day
  • Lost Replacement Fee: $150/item; replacement copies will not be accepted
    • Lost item replacement fees will be waived if the item has been returned in good condition.
  • Items returned damaged: $150/item
    • Examples of damaged books include, but are not limited to, water damage, mold, writing on the inside of the book, torn and or missing pages, excessive sticky notes remaining in the item, and/or damage to the outside of the book.
    • Before checking out books we encourage users to check their books for damage. If there is any damage please notify someone at the service desk or by contacting libinfo@ucalgary.libanswers.com so staff can make a note that the damage took place before you borrowed the item.

Fines can be paid:

  • Credit card by logging into your Library Account
  • In-person at the TFDL by debit or credit card
  • Fines cannot be paid over the phone or email. Cash transactions are not accepted.

Please note that the following are NOT acceptable reasons for waiving a fine:

  • Lack of awareness of library policies
  • Forgetting the due date, not renewing on time or the inability to renew online
  • Failure to receive an overdue notice email
  • Missing a due date because you are out of town

Account and Borrowing Blocks #

UCalgary Library accounts and borrowing privileges will be blocked when there is:

  • Fines of $50.00 or more.
  • There are outstanding overdue or lost items on the user's account.
  • Recalled material not returned by recall due date.
  • There is no email address attached to the library account.

Account Expiration #

  • Student account expiry is based on the term and course enrollment
  • Faculty and Staff account expiry is based on their HR Peoplesoft status

Physical Access #

  • Access to Regular Stacks, Reserve Items, Technology at any UCalgary Library - TFDL and branch locations, including Archives and Special Collections, and LabNext Makerspace

Computer Access #

  • All students, staff, and faculty are able to sign in to library computers using their IT username and password.

Digital Resources/Databases #

  • Off-campus access to all digital library resources including e-books, journals, and databases by using their IT username and password and by signing into their Library Account.
  • All users have access to Open Access resources off-campus.
  • Material provided through off-campus and on-campus access are only for individual study and research purposes only. Individuals are responsible for ensuring they are using copyright-protected works in accordance with applicable laws.

Student Registrar Withhold #

  • Students who have accrued $450 or more in fines or fees and have not paid within 30 days will have a Registrar Withhold placed on their account.
    • This will affect future registration or receipt of transcripts.
  • After the fine has been paid in full, the Library Registrar withhold will be removed from your account.
  • If the withhold is not lifted within one week, please contact Janine Gittens.

General Associates #

  • There are two types of UCalgary Associates:
    • General Associates, who are eligible for UCalgary Staff library privileges
    • Associates-Limited, who are eligible for Community library borrowing privileges
  • If you require additional information about your UCalgary Associate status you may wish to contact the Human Resources Help Desk, or the department with which you are associated.
  • All UCalgary Associates require a Unicard to access library services.

Logging in to My Account #

Your Library Account provides an overview of your library activity, status, and contact information. You can view due dates, loans, requests, fines, and account expiry.

You can sign into your Library Account from the library homepage.

  1. Select My Account located at the top right of the menu bar.
  2. Select Students, Faculty, Staff, General Associate
  3. Enter your IT username and password.

For Students, Faculty, Staff, and General Associates all library notifications are sent to your UCalgary email address.

Continuing Education Borrowing #

Borrowing Privileges #

  • UCalgary Continuing Education (CE) Students must obtain a Unicard from the Campus Service Centre before visiting the library and activating their library account.
  • Number of loans: 10 items.
  • Loan Period: Three (3) weeks, and materials may be renewed twice (2 times), after which they must be returned. If there are no requests for the materials, they may be checked out again. If materials are not returned, fines will accrue at the rate of $5.00/item/day.
  • Items that are lost or long overdue will result in a $150 replacement fee.

Account Expiration #

  • CE Students are subject to account expiry based on course enrollment dates.

Recalls #

  • Recalls occur when a borrowed item is requested by another user.
  • The recall period for library items is 10 days.
  • Check your email for a “Shortened Due Date Notice” for the new due date.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed or have their due date changed.
  • All regular loan items are subject to a recall.

Renewals #

  • All UCalgary Students, Faculty, and Staff’s library items will be auto-renewed. 10 days before the term due date, all items that have not been recalled will be renewed automatically to the next term due date.
  • All renewed items are still subject to a 10-day recall during the term loan period.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed.
  • Users with blocked accounts, due to overdue material or fines on the account, will not be able to renew their items.

Requesting Items #

  1. Sign into your Library Account.
  2. Click on "New Search" and search for the item you wish to borrow.
  3. Click on the item.
  4. "Request" the item.
    • For books, the Request link will be under "Get It."
    • For journal issues, you can request individual issues under the "Options" column on the right-hand side of the page.
  5. Select the pick-up location for your item(s).
  6. Click "Request."
  7. You will receive an email notification once your item is available for pick-up. You will have 7 days to pick-up your item(s).
    • Your item will be located on the Hold shelves/kiosks, filed alphabetically by last name.
    • If not picked up within 7 days, the request will expire and be removed from the hold shelf/kiosk

Returning Library Items #

  • Any UCalgary library item with a regular loan policy can be returned to any library location.
  • All locations have exterior return slots located near the entrance/exit.
  • The TFDL has an external return slot located on the east side of the building (the side closest to the MacKimmie Tower).
  • There is a return bin located at the loop by the Rozsa Centre (see image below).
  • All reserve, technology, and fragile material must be returned to the location or reserve kiosk it was borrowed from.
  • A user is responsible for the item until it is received by the library undamaged, and removed from their account.
  • All Interlibrary Loans must be returned directly to the TFDL or HSL service desk with their ILL paperwork.

Fines & Charges #

  • Overdue Technology: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Reserve Items: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Recall Fines: $5/item/day
  • Lost Replacement Fee: $150/item; replacement copies will not be accepted
    • Lost item replacement fees will be waived if the item has been returned in good condition.
  • Items returned damaged: $150/item
    • Examples of damaged books include, but are not limited to, water damage, mold, writing on the inside of the book, torn and or missing pages, excessive sticky notes remaining in the item, and/or damage to the outside of the book.
    • Before checking out books we encourage users to check their books for damage. If there is any damage please notify someone at the service desk or by contacting libinfo@ucalgary.libanswers.com so staff can make a note that the damage took place before you borrowed the item.

Fines can be paid:

  • Credit card by logging into your Library Account
  • In-person at the TFDL by debit or credit card
  • Fines cannot be paid over the phone or email. Cash transactions are not accepted.

Please note that the following are NOT acceptable reasons for waiving a fine:

  • Lack of awareness of library policies
  • Forgetting the due date, not renewing on time or the inability to renew online
  • Failure to receive an overdue notice email
  • Missing a due date because you are out of town

Account and Borrowing Blocks #

UCalgary Library accounts and borrowing privileges will be blocked when there is:

  • Fines of $50.00 or more.
  • There are outstanding overdue or lost items on the user's account.
  • Recalled material not returned by recall due date.
  • There is no email address attached to the library account.

Logging in to My Account #

Your Library Account provides an overview of your library activity, status, and contact information. You can view due dates, loans, requests, fines, and account expiry.

You can sign into your Library Account from the library homepage.

  1. Select My Account located at the top right of the menu bar.
  2. Select ContEd, Community Users and Alumni.
  3. Enter the first 9 digits of the barcode of your card and your password.

For ContEd, Community Users and Alumni all library notifications are sent to your personal email address. Your contact information and login password can be updated under the Personal Details section.

Physical Access #

Computer Access #

  • Wifi: CE Students may bring in their own personal device and connect to the Guest Wifi.
    • To access the databases and electronic resources with your own device, a Guest Login ID is required to connect to the airuc-secure network.
  • Library Computers: To use the library computers, CE Students must book a computer station in advance and get a Guest Login ID.
    • https://workrooms.ucalgary.ca/reserve/alumni-and-community
    • Each person can book 2 hours per day in one of 4 stations on the TFDL 1st Floor and must bring valid government picture ID to collect a Guest Login credential.
      • Guest Login IDs can be obtained at the TFDL service desk Monday to Friday 9:30am to 6:30pm; Saturday/Sunday 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Printing #

  • In order to print using the UCalgary printers, CE Students must:
    • Buy a Guest Print Card for $1 from the Unicard Deposit Kiosks with *cash only*. Additional money for printing will need to be added to the card, as the cards are not pre-loaded. Find the kiosk located next to the main TFDL staircase.
    • Get a Guest Login ID from the TFDL Service Desk.
    • Use the Express print stations, 1-23, 1-26, or those in the Alumni/Community room.

How to Print

  1. Logon to a library computer using a Guest Login ID.
  2. Send your document(s) to the print queue called STUDENT on ITCTSEQITRAC01.
  3. A dialogue box will open called “Equitrac Express” and prompt you for an ID and password.
    • Your ID is the number on the front of your guest print card with two zeros added to the front.
    • Your password is the full 10-digit barcode on the back of your Guest Print Card.
  4. Go to the printer and swipe your Guest Print Card (black stripe down) in the card reader attached to the printer.
  5. Select Unicard.
  6. Select Login.
  7. Select Follow You Printing, select your print jobs, and select Start.
  8. When done, select Logout.

Digital Resources/Databases #

  • CE Students who are enrolled in courses that are 10 or more instructional hours have access to almost all online journals and e-books through the UCalgary Libraries.
    • Search for the e-resource you need.
    • Use the correct login path in the View Online section.
      • Scroll down to the "View It" section.
      • Click on the "view full text" link.
      • Library User Authentication window will pop up.
      • Choose the option for Continuing Education Students, currently labeled "ContEd Students".
    • Enter your 8-digit DestinyOne ID and password assigned to you by Continuing Education.
    • Enter DestinyOne username and password.
    • NOTE 1: There is no access to O'Reilly/Safari e-books using DestinyOne credentials.
    • NOTE 2: DestinyOne authentication is down, daily, between 1-2pm MT.
  • The Continuing Education guide has more information on CE Student access to e-books and databases.
  • All users have access to Open Access resources off-campus.

Distance Education Borrowing #

Borrowing Privileges #

  • UCalgary Students must obtain a Unicard from the Campus Service Centre before visiting the library and activating their account.
  • Number of loans: Unlimited.
  • Loan Period: Auto-renew for term loans that have not been recalled.
  • Interlibrary Loan Request access.
  • Items that are lost or long overdue will result in a $150 replacement fee.

Recalls #

  • Recalls occur when a borrowed item is requested by another user.
  • The recall period for library items is 10 days.
  • Check your email for a “Shortened Due Date Notice” for the new due date.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed or have their due date changed.
  • All regular loan items are subject to a recall.

Renewals #

  • All UCalgary Students, Faculty, and Staff’s library items will be auto-renewed. 10 days before the term due date, all items that have not been recalled will be renewed automatically to the next term due date.
  • All other users can renew their items by logging on to their Library Account. Library items can be renewed twice.
  • All renewed items are still subject to a 10-day recall during the term loan period.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed.
  • Users with blocked accounts, due to overdue material or fines on the account, will not be able to renew their items.

Requesting Items #

  • Students enrolled in distance education may use the Interlibrary Loan / Document Delivery request form to request books or journal articles.
    • Eligible Students are limited to those enrolled in distance education programs (e.g. Social Work Online and Graduate Division of Education Research.)
    • Return postage is only provided for items that are mailed; it is not provided for items that were physically signed out at the library.
  • See our Services for Distance Students frequently asked question for service details.
  • To request items to pick up at UCalgary:
  1. Sign into your Library Account.
  2. Click on "New Search" and search for the item you wish to borrow.
  3. Click on the item.
  4. "Request" the item.
    • For books, the Request link will be under "Get It."
    • For journal issues, you can request individual issues under the "Options" column on the right-hand side of the page.
  5. Select the pick-up location for your item(s).
  6. Click "Request."
  7. You will receive an email notification once your item is available for pick-up. You will have 7 days to pick-up your item(s).
    • Your item will be located on the Hold shelves/kiosks, filed alphabetically by last name.
    • If not picked up within 7 days, the request will expire and be removed from the hold shelf/kiosk

Returning Library Items #

  • Any UCalgary library item with a regular loan policy can be returned to any library location.
  • All locations have exterior return slots located near the entrance/exit.
  • The TFDL has an external return slot located on the east side of the building (the side closest to the MacKimmie Tower).
  • There is a return bin located at the loop by the Rozsa Centre (see image below).
  • All reserve, technology, and fragile material must be returned to the location or reserve kiosk it was borrowed from.
  • A user is responsible for the item until it is received by the library undamaged, and removed from their account.
  • All Interlibrary Loans must be returned directly to the TFDL or HSL service desk with their ILL paperwork.

Fines & Charges #

  • Overdue Technology: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Reserve Items: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Recall Fines: $5/item/day
  • Lost Replacement Fee: $150/item; replacement copies will not be accepted
    • Lost item replacement fees will be waived if the item has been returned in good condition.
  • Items returned damaged: $150/item
    • Examples of damaged books include, but are not limited to, water damage, mold, writing on the inside of the book, torn and or missing pages, excessive sticky notes remaining in the item, and/or damage to the outside of the book.
    • Before checking out books we encourage users to check their books for damage. If there is any damage please notify someone at the service desk or by contacting libinfo@ucalgary.libanswers.com so staff can make a note that the damage took place before you borrowed the item.

Fines can be paid:

  • Credit card by logging into your Library Account
  • In-person at the TFDL by debit or credit card
  • Fines cannot be paid over the phone or email. Cash transactions are not accepted.

Please note that the following are NOT acceptable reasons for waiving a fine:

  • Lack of awareness of library policies
  • Forgetting the due date, not renewing on time or the inability to renew online
  • Failure to receive an overdue notice email
  • Missing a due date because you are out of town

Account and Borrowing Blocks #

UCalgary Library accounts and borrowing privileges will be blocked when there is:

  • Fines of $50.00 or more.
  • There are outstanding overdue or lost items on the user's account.
  • Recalled material not returned by recall due date.
  • There is no email address attached to the library account.

Logging in to My Account #

Your Library Account provides an overview of your library activity, status, and contact information. You can view due dates, loans, requests, fines, and account expiry.

You can sign into your Library Account from the library homepage.

  1. Select My Account located at the top right of the menu bar.
  2. Select ContEd, Community Users and Alumni.
  3. Enter the first 9 digits of the barcode of your card and your password.

For Students, Faculty, Staff, and General Associates all library notifications are sent to your UCalgary email address.

Account Expiration #

  • Student account expiry is based on the term and course enrollment.

Physical Access #

  • Access to Regular Stacks, Reserve Items, Technology at any UCalgary Library - TFDL and branch locations, including Archives and Special Collections, and LabNext Makerspace

Computer Access #

  • All students are able to sign in to library computers using their IT username and password.

Digital Resources/Databases #

  • Distance Students can access digital library resources off campus by using their IT username and password and by signing into their Library Account. All UCalgary Students have access to digital library resources such as e-books, databases, and journals.
  • All users have access to Open Access resources off-campus.

Retired Staff, Emeritus Borrowing #

Borrowing Privileges #

  • UCalgary Retired Staff and Emeritus must obtain a Unicard from the Campus Service Centre before visiting the library and activating their account.
  • Unlimited number of loans and auto-renewal.
  • Loan Period: Auto-renew for term loans that have not been recalled.
  • Interlibrary Loan Request access.
  • Retired staff members can obtain a Retired Employee card approximately two weeks after date of Retirement from the Campus Service Centre.

Recalls #

  • Recalls occur when a borrowed item is requested by another user.
  • The recall period for library items is 10 days.
  • Check your email for a “Shortened Due Date Notice” for the new due date.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed or have their due date changed.
  • All regular loan items are subject to a recall.

Renewals #

  • All UCalgary Students, Faculty, and Staff’s library items will be auto-renewed. 10 days before the term due date, all items that have not been recalled will be renewed automatically to the next term due date.
  • All other users can renew their items by logging on to their Library Account. Library items can be renewed twice.
  • All renewed items are still subject to a 10-day recall during the term loan period.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed.
  • Users with blocked accounts, due to overdue material or fines on the account, will not be able to renew their items.

Requesting Items #

  1. Sign into your Library Account.
  2. Click on "New Search" and search for the item you wish to borrow.
  3. Click on the item.
  4. "Request" the item.
    • For books, the Request link will be under "Get It."
    • For journal issues, you can request individual issues under the "Options" column on the right-hand side of the page.
  5. Select the pick-up location for your item(s).
  6. Click "Request."
  7. You will receive an email notification once your item is available for pick-up. You will have 7 days to pick-up your item(s).
    • Your item will be located on the Hold shelves/kiosks, filed alphabetically by last name.
    • If not picked up within 7 days, the request will expire and be removed from the hold shelf/kiosk

Returning Library Items #

  • Any UCalgary library item with a regular loan policy can be returned to any library location.
  • All locations have exterior return slots located near the entrance/exit.
  • The TFDL has an external return slot located on the east side of the building (the side closest to the MacKimmie Tower).
  • There is a return bin located at the loop by the Rozsa Centre (see image below).
  • All reserve, technology, and fragile material must be returned to the location or reserve kiosk it was borrowed from.
  • A user is responsible for the item until it is received by the library undamaged, and removed from their account.
  • All Interlibrary Loans must be returned directly to the TFDL or HSL service desk with their ILL paperwork.

Fines & Charges #

  • Overdue Technology: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Reserve Items: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Recall Fines: $5/item/day
  • Lost Replacement Fee: $150/item; replacement copies will not be accepted
    • Lost item replacement fees will be waived if the item has been returned in good condition.
  • Items returned damaged: $150/item
    • Examples of damaged books include, but are not limited to, water damage, mold, writing on the inside of the book, torn and or missing pages, excessive sticky notes remaining in the item, and/or damage to the outside of the book.
    • Before checking out books we encourage users to check their books for damage. If there is any damage please notify someone at the service desk or by contacting libinfo@ucalgary.libanswers.com so staff can make a note that the damage took place before you borrowed the item.

Fines can be paid:

  • Credit card by logging into your Library Account
  • In-person at the TFDL by debit or credit card
  • Fines cannot be paid over the phone or email. Cash transactions are not accepted.

Please note that the following are NOT acceptable reasons for waiving a fine:

  • Lack of awareness of library policies
  • Forgetting the due date, not renewing on time or the inability to renew online
  • Failure to receive an overdue notice email
  • Missing a due date because you are out of town

Account and Borrowing Blocks #

UCalgary Library accounts and borrowing privileges will be blocked when there is:

  • Fines of $50.00 or more.
  • There are outstanding overdue or lost items on the user's account.
  • Recalled material not returned by recall due date.

Logging in to My Account #

Your Library Account provides an overview of your library activity, status, and contact information. You can view due dates, loans, requests, fines, and account expiry.

You can sign into your Library Account from the library homepage.

  1. Select My Account located at the top right of the menu bar.
  2. Select Students, Faculty, Staff, General Associate
  3. Enter your IT username and password.

For Students, Faculty, Staff, and General Associates all library notifications are sent to your UCalgary email address.

Account Expiration #

  • Retired Staff and Emeritus account expiry is based on their HR Peoplesoft status

Physical Access #

  • Regular Stacks, Reserve, Technology at any UCalgary Library - TFDL and branch locations, including Archives and Special Collections, and LabNext Makerspace.

Computer Access #

  • All Retired staff and Emeritus are able to sign in to library computers using their IT username and password.

Digital Resources/Databases #

  • Off-campus access to all digital library resources including e-books, journals, and databases by using their IT username and password and by signing into their Library Account.
  • All users have access to Open Access resources off-campus.

SAIL Partners Borrowing #

Borrowing Privileges #

  • St. Mary's University, Ambrose University, and Bow Valley College Students, Faculty, and Staff (SAILs) can borrow from the UCalgary Libraries by bringing their institutional library card.
  • Number of loans: 50 items.
  • Loan Period: Auto-renew for term loans that have not been recalled.
  • Items that are lost or long overdue will result in a $150 replacement fee.
  • No Interlibrary Loan Request access.

Recalls #

  • Recalls occur when a borrowed item is requested by another user.
  • The recall period for library items is 10 days.
  • Check your email for a “Shortened Due Date Notice” for the new due date.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed or have their due date changed.
  • All regular loan items are subject to a recall.

Renewal #

  • All SAIL user’s library can renew their items by logging on their institution's library account. Library items can be renewed twice.
  • All renewed items are still subject to a 10-day recall during the term loan period.
  • Recalled items cannot be renewed.
  • Users with blocked accounts, due to overdue material or fines on the account, will not be able to renew their items.

Requesting Items #

  1. Sign into your Library Account.
  2. Click on "New Search" and search for the item you wish to borrow.
  3. Click on the item.
  4. "Request" the item.
    • For books, the Request link will be under "Get It."
    • For journal issues, you can request individual issues under the "Options" column on the right-hand side of the page.
  5. Select the pick-up location for your item(s).
  6. Click "Request."
  7. You will receive an email notification once your item is available for pick-up. You will have 7 days to pick-up your item(s).
    • Your item will be located on the Hold shelves/kiosks, filed alphabetically by last name.
    • If not picked up within 7 days, the request will expire and be removed from the hold shelf/kiosk

Returning Library Items #

  • Any UCalgary library item with a regular loan policy can be returned to any library location.
  • All locations have exterior return slots located near the entrance/exit.
  • The TFDL has an external return slot located on the east side of the building (the side closest to the MacKimmie Tower).
  • There is a return bin located at the loop by the Rozsa Centre (see image below).
  • All reserve, technology, and fragile material must be returned to the location or reserve kiosk it was borrowed from.
  • A user is responsible for the item until it is received by the library undamaged, and removed from their account.
  • All Interlibrary Loans must be returned directly to the TFDL or HSL service desk with their ILL paperwork.

Fines & Charges #

  • Overdue Technology: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Reserve Items: $3/item/hour
  • Overdue Recall Fines: $5/item/day
  • Lost Replacement Fee: $150/item; replacement copies will not be accepted
  • Items returned damaged: $150/item
    • Examples of damaged books include, but are not limited to, water damage, mold, writing on the inside of the book, torn and or missing pages, excessive sticky notes remaining in the item, and/or damage to the outside of the book.
    • Before checking out books we encourage users to check their books for damage. If there is any damage please notify someone at the service desk or by contacting libinfo@ucalgary.libanswers.com so staff can make a note that the damage took place before you borrowed the item.

Fines can be paid:

  • Credit card by logging into your Library Account
  • In-person at the TFDL by debit or credit card
  • Fines cannot be paid over the phone or email. Cash transactions are not accepted.

Please note that the following are NOT acceptable reasons for waiving a fine:

  • Lack of awareness of library policies
  • Forgetting the due date, not renewing on time or the inability to renew online
  • Failure to receive an overdue notice email
  • Missing a due date because you are out of town

Account and Borrowing Blocks #

UCalgary Library accounts and borrowing privileges will be blocked when there is:

  • Fines of $50.00 or more.
  • There are outstanding overdue or lost items on the user's account.
  • Recalled material not returned by recall due date.

Logging in to My Account #

Your Library Account provides an overview of your library activity, status, and contact information. You can view due dates, loans, requests, fines, and account expiry. You can sign into your Library Account from your institution’s library website.

Account Expiration #

  • SAIL members are subject to yearly account expiry based on the closest term due date.
  • Accounts can be renewed via in-person visit, email, phone call, or chat.

Physical Access #

Computer Access #

  • SAIL members may bring in their own personal device and connect to the Guest Wifi. To access the databases and electronic resources, a guest login is required to connect to the airuc-secure network
  • To use the library computers, SAIL members must book a computer station in advance.
    • workrooms.ucalgary.ca/reserve/alumni-and-community
    • each person can book 2 hours per day in one of 4 stations on the TFDL 1st Floor and must bring valid government picture ID to collect a Guest Login credential.
      • Guest logins can be obtained at the TFDL service desk Monday to Friday 9:30am to 6:30pm; Saturday/Sunday 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Digital Resources/Databases #

  • SAIL users do not have access to digital library resources off-campus.
  • All users have access to Open Access resources off-campus.

5 Ways to Avoid Fines

  1. Return or renew items by due dates

  2. Plan for trips by returning items that may be recalled

  3. Login to my account to check due dates

    My Account
  4. Check your correct email address is on file

  5. Pay attention to recall email notifications (check spam folder too)