UW Libraries Blog

September 13, 2021

Know Before You Go: 10 important things to know before you visit Seattle UW Libraries

UW Libraries

Welcome back, Huskies! The Libraries are re-opening this month (see our COVID Update page for hours and dates)*.  Some things will be a little different than before the pandemic, so thanks for taking a minute to review this important information to help you prepare for your first visit. Understanding these new requirements will save you time and help keep our UW community safe! 

Masks are required everywhere at all times.

  • Please put a mask on before entering the building (not inside the entryway).
  • Masks need to be worn in group study rooms, even if the door is closed.

 

Eating and drinking: UW Libraries are following UW EH&S policy for eating and drinking inside. Adjusting your mask to hydrate for a few seconds is ok, however, the Libraries are not designated eating spaces, and removing a mask to actively eat or drink is not permitted. See these designated locations for indoor eating options on campus. (Note: Starbucks plans to open inside Suzzallo Library, hours, policies and details to be confirmed). 

Most Libraries will have reduced hours/days initially, and some will not be open on weekends to start, so be sure to check the hours for your library FIRST before visiting. Hours will expand as staffing permits.

 

Odegaard Undergraduate Library and Health Sciences Library will be open to UW only.  A current, valid husky card will be required for entry.

 

 

The Research Commons will remain a space for quiet, individual study.  See our September update for more information.

 

 

 

You’ll need to make an appointment for most services. While information desks will be open with staff,  most services inside the libraries including visiting Special Collections, media and digital scholarship services will require an appointment. You can also make appointments for the new virtual reading room in Special Collections! 

 

You can get help with just about ANYTHING through our online services – we have expanded our online help capabilities, so whether you need help with writing, research strategies, or search – just ASK US. 

 

Need to do Zoom class/call? We got you covered. There will be designated spaces for active calls (where talking is required) as well as dedicated quiet areas. Look for new signs throughout the library that indicate noise guidance within different spaces.

 

Cleaning supplies and sanitation stations will be available in all public spaces.

      • Remember to wash your hands and/or use sanitizer before and after touching “high touch” equipment like public computers, and after touching your mask.
      • Students can clean computer keyboards with Libraries-provided alcohol wipes–please only use the supplies provided by the Library as other types of cleaning products (i.e. your own personal wipes/cleaners) could damage computers.

 

It is time to return books!  Due dates will stop being extended when Libraries open, so if you’ve been keeping books for the past 18+ months, make sure to renew items in your online library account, or return overdue items that cannot be renewed (recalled items, Summit, Interlibrary Loan, and equipment).

Thank you for doing your part to #ProtectYourPack by keeping our spaces safe (and open)!  We are excited to see you!

 

PS: Check out this awesome blog post: Top Ten Things I Wish I Knew My First Year . UW Libraries are so much more than study space and books! Students often tell us they wish they had known more about Libraries’ services at the start of their UW journey. Be sure to bookmark these helpful tips!

 

*UW Bothell and UW Tacoma Libraries may have different rules based on localized guidance and  requirements.