Using the Library During the COVID-19 Pandemic

With the movement of so many classes to online and hybrid formats, UMW Libraries are working with the school, faculty, and students to ensure that users continue to have access to the materials they need for their classes. This guide will walk you through the numerous ways the library can continue to provide help through online material access, digital research assistance, and additional support for online class creation.

Library Hours and Services

Summer Hours

During the Summer, Simpson Library is open on a walk-in basis for all visitors. Guests will no longer need an appointment to visit.

Summer Hours:

• Monday - Thursday: 8 am - 5 pm
• Friday: CLOSED
• Saturday: CLOSED
• Sunday: CLOSED

Due to university-observed holidays, Simpson Library will be closed on:

• Monday 5/10 (Employee Appreciation Day)
• Monday 5/31 (Memorial Day)
• Monday 7/5 (Independence Day obs.)

To learn more about which services are available, see our Hours and Services flyer!

No-Contact Pickup

UMW students, faculty, and staff can use our No-contact Pickup service to get books or other physical items from Simpson Library. Guest and alumni users with valid UMW Libraries borrowing cards can also use No-contact Pickup.

To request an item for pickup, find the item in Quest (the UMW Libraries catalog), log into your library account, and click "Request." Type "No-contact pickup" in the "Comments" field.

Once you have placed your request(s), contact Simpson Library by email at umwlibraries@umw.edu or by phone (540-654-1059) to arrange a pickup time. In addition to scheduling a date and time for pickup, library staff will also give you information about parking and what to do once you arrive to pick up your materials.

Digitization requests

UMW student, faculty, and staff may request scanned pages of books, course reserves, and other library materials using the digitization request form.

Return Books

You may return library materials at the main Simpson Library service desk during all open hours.
You may also return materials 24 hours a day, using either of our two book drops.

• Our main book drop is located on Campus Walk, in the front wall of Simpson Library, on the side closest to Woodard.
• A large, freestanding book drop, located behind Simpson Library on the Melchers side, is also available for returns.

Have Questions? Need help? Email us at umwlibraries@umw.edu or call 540-654-1125.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

Current UMW students, faculty, and staff members can use our ILL service to request articles, books, and other materials that UMW Libraries don't own. Click here to learn more about ILL.

Research assistance

Over the summer, reference librarians are available over email and via one-on-one Zoom research consultations to assist you with your research. Email us your questions at refdesk@umw.edu.

You can also reach out directly to the librarian who specializes in your area of research. Visit libraries.umw.edu/reference to find your librarian's contact information. You may email librarians directly or complete their appointment form to request a consultation.

Simpson Library Hours