UNCG University Libraries | About the Libraries | Library Policies

Library Policies

The following policies should be followed when using the University Libraries:

The University Libraries welcome UNCG students, faculty and staff, and members of the community to use our buildings and resources. To ensure everyone’s safety and provide an environment conducive to research, learning and collaboration we ask that you abide by our Code of Conduct. Please be prepared to show your ID upon request of any University staff.

  • The University Libraries follow The University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s Student Code of Conduct and The University Policy Manual.
  • Food and drink are permitted with some restrictions. See the University Libraries Food and Drink Policy.
  • Please turn off cell phone ringers and be considerate (use your “inside voice”) when using cell phones.
  • Please observe the quiet zones on tower floors 6-9. Cell phones should not be used in the quiet zones.
  • Group study is encouraged in designated areas. Please remember to respect others with noise levels, conversation, use of space and resources.
  • Only trained assistance or guide animals are allowed. The Libraries follow UNCG’s policy on animals on campus.
  • Please enjoy your skateboards, skates, and scooters outside.
  • Bicycles should be stored on the racks outside.
  • Please wear shirts and shoes.
  • Please use headphones when using sound from computers or other devices.
  • Children under the age of 13 should be accompanied by an adult. Exceptions will be made for children participating in school or University sponsored programs and activities. The Libraries’ computers do not have internet filters. Parents or guardians are responsible for their children when visiting the Libraries and for the children’s use of library materials, whether found on the internet or among the Libraries’ other collections.

The following conduct is not permitted in the Libraries:

  • Alcoholic beverages (except for Libraries’ sponsored events).
  • Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vaping).
  • Destruction of Libraries’ materials or property. This violates UNCG’s Academic Integrity Policy and North Carolina General Statutes.
  • Violating the Libraries’ Computer and Internet Access Policy.
  • Disruptive or disrespectful behavior toward staff or patrons. UNCG defines disruptive behavior as speech or action which 1) is disrespectful, offensive, and/or threatening, 2) impedes or interferes with the learning activities of others, 3) impedes the delivery of university services, and/or 4) has a negative impact on any learning environment.
  • Blocking of areas so that others can’t access materials or needed study space and resources.
  • Bathing in the restrooms.
  • Panhandling.
  • Sleeping beyond a short study nap. The Libraries’ buildings are intended for learning and studying.

August 2015

The University Libraries of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro provide computers to support the scholarly and research activities of UNCG faculty, students and staff. Priority is given to this use.

Library computing workstations must be used in accordance with the UNCG Acceptable Use of Computing and Electronic Resources Policy. Failure to abide by that Policy may result in suspension of computing workstation access privileges and, in the case of students, faculty and staff, may result in a referral to the applicable University disciplinary authority.

Libraries are public places and users may not intentionally access material and images that contain obscenity, child pornography or other unlawful content. Additionally, use of the computers in a manner that creates a hostile environment can expose the user and the University to claims for sexual or racial harassment. Therefore, such usage is also prohibited and may result in suspension of computing workstation access privileges.

Parents or guardians are responsible for their children’s use of library materials, whether found on the Internet or among the Library’s other collections.

The Libraries provide the following types of computer and internet access:

Jackson Library

  • Most of Jackson Library’s computers require a UNCG login and provide full access to the internet and a variety of productivity software.
  • Several stand-up computers on the first floor are available as “Express” machines that provide access to the internet only. Use of these workstations is limited to 15 minutes at a time.
  • Two computers in the Reference area are available to the general public with access to the internet only for research purposes. Guests may use these computers for one hour.
  • Computers in the Digital Media Commons (located in the lower level) are updated more frequently than other library computers, and are intended primarily for multimedia production and editing.
  • Technology Checkout is available to UNCG students, faculty and staff.

Harold Schiffman Music Library

  • Most of Harold Schiffman Music Library’s computers require a UNCG login and provide full access to the internet and a variety of productivity software.
  • Several stand-up computers that provide access to the internet only are available for quick searches.
  • Laptops, iPads, and other technologies are available for check-out to UNCG students, faculty and staff.

Because of restricted license agreements, the University Libraries is unable to make the full collection of online databases available to anyone except current students, faculty, and staff.

You may use online resources in the University Libraries by getting a login to a guest computer in the ROI Department.

However, through the resources of NC LIVE, any resident of North Carolina may obtain access to over 100 online databases and collections (including many of the University Libraries’ most frequently-used resources) by contacting their local public library. To begin, North Carolina residents can sign up for a free NC LIVE 10-day pass to access electronic resources offered through this program. After 10 days, they will be directed to sign up for permanent access through a public library card. We encourage you to take advantage of this resource!

North Carolina residents may also get a State Library Card (from the State Library of North Carolina in Raleigh) that will provide remote access to these databases.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of digital signs in the University Libraries is to promote and market the Libraries’ services, programs, events, and resources. UNCG administrative and academic offices may also submit content for consideration.

Guidelines:

Digital display images should follow these guidelines.

  • Use high contrast and bright colors, preferably colors that conform to the UNCG Brand Guide.
  • Use a standard aspect ratio, such as 16:9 (landscape).
  • Use large fonts so the text is readable on both large and small displays.
  • Use simple images and graphics. Avoid complicated backgrounds.
  • Include a call to action (e.g., QR Code for further information).
  • Submit only one image (PNG, JPG, or PDF) per event/notice.
  • Specify a begin and end date for display.

Submission Form:

You must be logged in to your UNCG Account to access the Digital Sign Submission Form.

12/2022

The Libraries welcome students to do film projects or formal photography in the Libraries’ buildings. We ask that you first obtain a signed permission form from Libraries’ Administration. Please call 336.334.5880 or visit the Administrative Offices on the 2nd floor.

News crews who wish to film or take formal photos in the Libraries should also obtain a permission form from Administration. We recommend that news crews contact University Communications at 336.334.3207.

Permission from anyone in the films or photos should also be obtained.

Please keep the signed form with you while filming.

Please see the Library Fines, Fees and Lost Items page for details.

The University Libraries strive to provide a welcoming atmosphere. Incorporating our responsibilities to protect library materials, equipment, and furnishings and to ensure the rights of all users to undisturbed study, we are pleased to adopt this food policy based on cooperation and mutual respect. We ask that library users take responsibility for themselves and others and use good judgment to ensure that no trace is left behind and no damages are caused by food or drink.

This policy is adopted on a contingency basis with plans to continue the policy as long as the libraries remain clean. If problems related to messiness, cleanliness, damaged materials or other complaints arise; this policy may be revised without notice.

Food and Drink are allowed in the libraries under the following conditions:

  • No food or drink is allowed in the Hodges Reading Room, the ITS-sponsored Superlab and Instructional Lab 177a, and in specified spaces in the Digital Media Commons. Food and drink during class sessions in the Citilab are at the discretion of the instructor.
  • All drinks must be in covered containers.
  • Alcohol and tobacco products are not allowed.
  • Leave no trace…
    • Protect library materials and equipment by keeping food and drink at a safe distance. Clean your hands after eating and before handling library property.
    • Take responsibility for maintaining a sanitary and pleasant environment. Remove crumbs, wipe off sticky surfaces, and clean up after yourself and others. Properly dispose of trash in the library-provided receptacles or remove it from the building.
  • Be respectful of others. Refrain from eating loud, smelly, or messy food. If a neighbor complains, you will be expected to relocate upon request.
  • Food deliveries, food parties, group meals are not allowed except in relation to library-sponsored events.
  • Food or drink spills should be reported to the Access Services Desk immediately so that prompt action can be taken to minimize the damages.
  • Unattended food and drink may be removed and discarded.
  • Library staff reserves the right to ask anyone who disregards the above conditions to remove the food or drink from the buildings immediately or to leave the buildings.

UNCG University Libraries, including the Harold Schiffman Music Library, have suspended all donations of physical materials for the general collections until further notice. A Jackson Library building renovation is pending, and space for collections will be reduced to accommodate the changes. In addition, there is a high cost to sorting, reviewing, and processing donated materials. Our students and faculty are using many more e-resources as methods of instruction evolve and for convenience of access.

We appreciate your interest in the Libraries but must decline offers of materials for the general collections.

For rare books, private papers, and exceptional materials, contact the Martha Blakeney Hodges Special Collections & University Archives at [email protected] (336.334.4045).

If you have questions, you may contact Christine Fischer (336.256.1193), Head of Technical Services.

  1. UNCG students and employees may check out lockers for an academic term – fall, spring or summer.
  2. Lockers are limited to 1 per person per term.
  3. Combination locks are provided; personal locks are not allowed.
  4. During the last 2 weeks of each term, renewal notices are emailed to official UNCG email accounts. Students registered for the next term & continuing employees may renew lockers up to 4 times online using My Library Account or contact the Check Out Desk to renew.
  5. Lockers not renewed for the next term are cleared out beginning the day after the loan expires. Any personal items left inside will be disposed of. Please be sure to renew lockers or clean them out by the due date.
  6. When a locker is no longer required during a term please notify [email protected].
  7. Photo ID is required to obtain a locker combination in person.
  8. Food and drink stored in lockers are subject to the library’s food and drink policy and should not be stored for more than a one day visit unless nonperishable, and in sealed, airtight containers.
  9. No overdue books, “Building Use Only” materials, or circulating books which are not checked out may be kept in the lockers. Sequestering unchecked out library materials in a locker may be considered a violation of the UNCG Academic Integrity Policy.
  10. Lockers and locker contents may be inspected periodically by Library staff. Should violations be found, locker privileges may be revoked.
  11. Even though lockers are padlocked, it is not advisable to keep items of value in them. The library cannot be responsible for personal property left in lockers.

10.13.2020

Items found in Jackson Library may be turned in at the Check Out Desk located by the EUC-Library Connector entrance.

Bottled, boxed, or canned drinks, loose food items, pens and pencils, face masks, and items lost or found in other buildings will not be accepted.

Found items will be quarantined inside plastic bags.

High value items (electronics, jewelry, currency, credit cards, wallets, etc.) are transferred to the UNCG Police Department within 7 days. The UNCG Police Department will attempt to match these items to their owners. Additionally, the UNCG Police Department provides a Report a Lost or Found Item Form on their Services Provided page.

Other items will be held at the Checkout Desk for a minimum of 30 days, then discarded. Materials containing personal information will be destroyed.

Picture ID is required to claim items.

  • Posters or flyers may be attached and displayed in Jackson Library only on surfaces designed and designated for such purposes: the bulletin boards located in the elevator lobby in the lower level of the Tower and in the Reference area on the first floor of Main. The Library also provides and maintains the kiosk bulletin board located in the Library-EUC Connector for this purpose.
  • Library personnel will routinely remove outdated material from these areas and may remove multiple copies of posters or flyers to make room for other content.
  • Student groups and organizations may request display cases in Jackson Library to promote their group and events.
  • Student groups and organizations wishing to display or distribute materials elsewhere in the library should direct requests to Cathy Griffith, Head of Access Services, [email protected], 336.334.5492.

03/2016

We protect each library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted.

A library shall not disclose any library record that identifies a person as having or obtained specific materials, information, or services, or as otherwise having used the library, except:

  • When necessary for the reasonable operation of the library;
  • Upon written consent of the user; or
  • Pursuant to subpoena, court order, or where otherwise required by law.

Code of Ethics of the American Library Association

North Carolina General Statutes

Jackson Library maintains an off-site storage facility for lesser used materials. Materials in the facility have a location in our catalog of “Storage…Ask at Check Out Desk” and will display a Request Item button, use of which requires that the library user be a UNCG student/faculty/staff, or Community Borrower, and have set up their My Library Account. Others may call or email the Check Out Desk to place Storage requests.

Materials are retrieved from storage upon request in compliance with the service policies below.

  • The storage facility is not a public area. Only Libraries’ personnel have access to it.
  • Requests for most materials are retrieved on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Government Documents are retrieved Mondays – Thursdays. Requests received between retrieval days will be retrieved after 1 p.m. on the next scheduled retrieval day and will be made available by 5 p.m. that day.
  • Unless otherwise requested, retrieved materials will be held for 14 days, after which they will be returned to the storage facility.
  • Please limit requests to no more than 5 print volumes or microfilm reels per retrieval day. Requests may be retrieved over multiple days when the total patron request volume is significant. Library users will be contacted if this situation occurs.
  • When items are available for pick up, library users will receive instructions via email. UNCG students, faculty and staff will receive notifications via iSpartan Email. If no email is on file, library users will be notified by telephone.

The Libraries welcome student organizations and campus offices to host tables to provide information or services in Jackson Library.

Because of high traffic and congestion on our first floor we prefer not to schedule tables for long term or continued use but rather for specific dates a few times a semester.

Offices and organizations wishing to reserve longer time periods are welcome to reserve a display case on the first floor of Jackson Library or contact Elliott University Center Promotional Options.

Topics and themes should focus on academic or student affairs services for UNCG students, faculty and staff.

Tables are provided. All other materials need to be supplied by the office or organization.

Food and beverages are permitted. Beverages should have lids.

All requests to host tables from UNCG or external parties should contact Will Cook, Facilities Manager ([email protected], 336.334.3741) or Cathy Griffith, Head, Access Services ([email protected], 336.334.5492).

Theft or destruction of library materials is a crime.

North Carolina General Statue § 14-398. Theft or destruction of property of public libraries, museums, etc.

Any person who shall steal or unlawfully take or detain, or willfully or maliciously or wantonly write upon, cut, tear, deface, disfigure, soil, obliterate, break or destroy, or who shall sell or buy or receive, knowing the same to have been stolen, any book, document, newspaper, periodical, map, chart, picture, portrait, engraving, statue, coin, medal, apparatus, specimen, or other work of literature or object of art or curiosity deposited in a public library, gallery, museum, collection, fair or exhibition, or in any department or office of State or local government, or in a library, gallery, museum, collection, or exhibition, belonging to any incorporated college or university, or any incorporated institution devoted to educational, scientific, literary, artistic, historical or charitable purposes, shall, if the value of the property stolen, detained, sold, bought or received knowing same to have been stolen, or if the damage done by writing upon, cutting, tearing, defacing, disfiguring, soiling, obliterating, breaking or destroying any such property, shall not exceed fifty dollars ($50.00), be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the value of the property stolen, detained, sold or received knowing same to have been stolen, or the amount of damage done in any of the ways or manners hereinabove set out, shall exceed the sum of fifty dollars ($50.00), the person committing same shall be punished as a Class H felon.

UNCG Academic Integrity Policy: Misuse of Academic Resources

The use, misuse or alterations of University materials or resources so as to make them inaccessible to other users. Examples of misuse of academic resources include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • the unauthorized use of computer accounts
  • alteration of passwords
  • violation of library procedures
  • other intentional misuse or destruction of educational materials

This violation is differentiated from a conduct violation in that the primary result of actions is the inaccessibility of resources to other students.

Help us preserve your library collections. Please report crime or suspicious behavior immediately: