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UMW Libraries
Simpson Library | Special Collections

Library Services Fall 2021

UMW Libraries COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Availability of Services

Public Health and Safety Guidelines

Enhanced Hygiene and Cleaning Practices

Availability of Services

Is the library open?

  • These are our hours for the Fall Semester:

    • Monday – Thursday, 8am – 8pm
    • Friday, 8am – 5 pm
    • Saturday, CLOSED
    • Sunday, 1 pm – 8 pm
  • Please note that the hours are subject to change.
  • **The week of Thanksgiving, Simpson Library will be open during regular hours on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday (Nov. 21-23). The library will be closed Wednesday through Sunday (November 24-28) for Thanksgiving Break.**
  • For most accurate building and department hours, visit our Hours and Directions page.
  • Special Collections and University Archives is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons from 1:30 to 4:00. Other times in the week are available by appointment only.
  • The Digital Archiving Lab in the HCC is available by appointment only. Contact archives@umw.edu for an appointment or to request assistance

 

Can I get help from a reference librarian?

  • You can also schedule a remote consultation with a reference librarian for help with research or citing sources. Find your subject librarian on this list and make an appointment, or email refdesk@umw.edu and we'll forward your request to the appropriate person.

 

Will I be able to reserve a study room?

  • Yes! Use 25 Live to reserve a group study room.
  • To schedule a space, visit 25Live.

Can I use a public computer, printer, or scanner?

  • Computers, scanners, and printers are all available on the first floor of the library. Check with library staff if you need assistance.

How do I access my course materials on reserve?

  • Electronic reserves are available through the Library Reading List link in every Canvas course.
  • Physical reserves are back. Please contact Olivia Key, Reserves & Reading Lists Supervisor, or email umwlibraries@umw.edu with any questions.

Can I request items through ILL?

I'm not affiliated with UMW but would like to use the library as a guest. Is the library open to me?

  • Yes!  Appointments are no longer required.
  • All visitors must wear masks and observe all posted safety procedures.
  • Please note that guest computer access is first come, first served.

 

Public Health and Safety Guidelines

Do I have to wear a mask?

  • Yes. UMW's COVID-19 Face Coverings/Masks Policy requires wearing a face covering while inside a University facility or on any University property when in the presence of others.

 

What does social distancing look like in the library?

  • Please observe all floor markers to help keep appropriate distance while waiting for desk service, water fountains, or printer use.
  • A plexiglass barrier at the service desk helps keep all of us safe.

Can I bring food into the library?

  • Yes!  

 

Enhanced Hygiene and Cleaning Practices

Will hand sanitizer be available?

  • Definitely! All around the library, you'll see new touchless dispensers for hand sanitizer. These are positioned in the highest traffic areas: near stairwells, doors, and public service points.

 

What increased cleaning measures are in place?

  • Housekeeping is doing additional disinfecting throughout the day at high touch points, but we all need to do our part to make sure the library stays clean!
  • Disinfecting wipes are available throughout the library; please use them to wipe down your area before you leave. For keyboards and other electronics, wring out the wipe to remove excess liquid first, then wipe the equipment.
    • Do not use the wipes on touch screens, please! Hand sanitizer is available for you to clean your hands after touching shared screens.
    • Please notify staff if you see areas in the library that need to be cleaned.