Reserves FAQ

Student questions about course reserves | Faculty questions

1. How do I find an item on reserve for a Science or Humanities class?

Reserve materials for Science and Humanities classes are available at the Hayden Reserve Desk (14S-100). Request books by call number; request other materials (class readers, videos, etc.) by course number. To find materials (and their call numbers) on reserve for your class search Barton Catalog - Reserves.

2. How do I check out a reserve book?

You must present your MIT ID in order to check out any reserve materials.

3. How long can I take out an item on reserve?

• books circulate for 2 hours
• videos circulate for 4 hours

The time limit is to give everyone in the class a chance to see the materials.

4. Can reserve items be renewed? Can I renew them indefinitely?

Most reserve materials may be renewed for two hours (four hours for videos) if no one else is waiting to see them. Renew reserve materials by stopping by or calling the Hayden Reserves Desk (617.253.5671). They may also be renewed via the “Your Account” feature in Barton. There is a three renewal limit on all reserve materials.

5. Do reserve materials go out overnight?

Reserve materials circulate overnight two hours before closing and must be returned within two hours after opening the next day. Videos may circulate overnight four hours before closing and are due two hours after opening the next day. See: MIT Libraries Hours.

6. What kinds of materials are on reserve?

Books, videos, classnotes, problem set solutions, CDs, cassette tapes and any other materials the instructor has determined would be useful for the students are placed on reserve.

7. How many reserve items can I check out at once?

There is no limit to the number of reserve items that a library user can check out at one time. However, keep in mind that most items are due back in two hours and that others in the class may wish to see the materials as well.

8. What happens if I return an item later than the date and time due?

There is a significant fine for overdue reserve materials.

9. Can I "reserve" a reserve item?

Reserve materials circulate for a short period of time (usually two hours) so placing holds on items is not practical. Reserves are on a "first come, first serve" policy. If a reserve item you wish to see is out circulating, contact the Hayden Reserves Desk (617.253.5671) to block renewal of that item.

10. Can reserve items be returned to any library circulation desk, along with my 4-week loan items?

Science and Humanities reserves materials must be returned only to the Hayden Reserves Desk since other students may be waiting to see them. Substantial fines may be incurred if Hayden Reserves materials are returned to any library desk besides Hayden.