You can find answers to some common questions about the IUP Libraries and library services below. 

If you don’t see the answer to your question below, IUP Librarians have compiled an extensive FAQ about services and policies (and if you still can’t find the answer, you can submit your question through Ask a Librarian).

For comments, feedback, or suggestions, send them to us through our Electronic Suggestion Box.

I need help finding something in the library. Who can I ask?

When you're looking for help finding something in our print or electronic collections, lean on our reference librarians! Our librarians are experts in multiple subject areas and will provide the reference and research support you're looking for.

There are many ways to get in touch with a reference librarian—visit Reference Services for more information.

How do I check out a book?

To check out a book, take the book to the Circulation Desk located on the first floor of the library. You will need to present your I-Card or Community Library Card to the Circulation staff.

For how long can I check out a book?

If you're an undergraduate student or Community Library Card holders, you can check out a book for 30 days, with two renewals. Graduate students can borrow a book for 90 days, with two renewals; and faculty, staff, and administrators can borrow a book for 90 days, with three renewals.

Items you've borrowed are renewed automatically by our library systems. Once you have reached your maximum renewals, we are unable to grant additional renewals and you are required to return the item.

I'm a student at the Dixon Center or IUP Pittsburgh East. How can I borrow a book?

You can request a book through the PALCI or ILLIAD interlibrary loan systems. There is no cost to the student for using interlibrary loan services.

Visit Interlibrary Loan for more details about those services.

The Library doesn't have an article or book that I need for my studies. How can I get that item?

If we don't have the book or article you need, you can make a request via one of our Interlibrary Loan services:

  • If you are looking for a book, please use the PALCI E-ZBorrow service to make the request.
  • If it's an article you need (or a book that can't be found in PALCI), please visit the ILLIAD page to submit your request.

For how long can I borrow a book using interlibrary loan?

If you requested the book via PALCI, you may keep it for 60 days, with no renewals. If you used ILLIAD to request the book, the borrowing period will vary according to the lending institution's requirements, but it is typically two to three weeks.

Can I check out reference books or journals/serials?

Only graduate students and faculty can check out reference materials or journals/serials.

I have a suggestion or comment about the Library. How can I send it to you?

We welcome feedback to help us improve our services and collections! You can use our Electronic Suggestion Box to send us your comments or suggestions.

Where is _______ in the Library building?

If you’re looking for a book on the shelves, or trying to find a particular classroom or service desk in the library building, check out the Library Map to find your way.