Borrow and Renew

What do I need to borrow library materials?

Carnegie Mellon users need their CMU ID card. Link opens in a new tab/window.

Other users have different requirements.

What can I borrow and for how long?

Borrowing privileges by user group

Loan periods by item type

Fines and fees by item type

Carnegie Mellon students, faculty and staff can borrow a variety of materials:  books, journals, dissertations/theses, slides, audio and multimedia CDs, and recreational DVDs. In most cases, course reserves, newspapers, reference works, special collections, videos and film may only be used in the library.

Can others borrow for me?

Faculty can assign proxy privileges to a student or staff member.  Complete the Proxy Borrowing Permissions Form [.pdf]

Individuals with disabilities may assign proxy privileges to certain individuals.  Complete the Student Proxy Borrowing Permission Form [.pdf]

What if the item I need is checked out?

You have several options depending on your time frame:

• Find a copy at a local library and go there to get it. See Using Other Libraries for more information.
• Use E-ZBorrow.  Log in and search area libraries for an available copy.  Books are usually delivered in 3-5 days.
• Use the Place Hold or Request Item links in Cameo to place a hold on a checked out book. Any checked-out item is subject to recall after 7 days if someone else asks to use it. You will be contacted when the item is available for pickup at the circulation desk.  This can take 1-3 weeks.
• Use Interlibrary loan.  Fill out a form and we’ll find a library that has a copy and borrow it for you. Delivery of physical materials usually takes about 7-10 days.

What if the item I need is not checked out and not on the shelf?

Contact library staff at either a reference or circulation desk for assistance.

Can I see what I have checked out or renew items online?

Log in to My Account.

Where do I find my CMU ID and PIN?

Link opens in a new tab/window.

Where Can I Return Items?

You can return an item to any library.  All libraries except the Software Engineering Institute library have book drops near the library doors.

Can I check out items from other libraries?

See Using Other Libraries.

For More Information