Texas Tech Book Loan: Your Guide to Borrowing and Returning Library Materials

Introduction

The Texas Tech University Libraries provide access to millions of books, journals, and other resources to support the academic and research needs of the university community. The book loan service allows patrons to borrow physical materials for a specified period of time. This article provides a comprehensive guide to borrowing and returning library materials at Texas Tech University.

Benefits of Borrowing from the Library

• Access to a vast collection: The Texas Tech University Libraries house over 3.5 million volumes and provide access to a wide range of electronic resources, including e-books and online databases.
• Convenience: Borrowing books from the library is convenient and affordable. Students, faculty, and staff can borrow materials for free.
• Support for academic success: The library’s collection is curated to support the academic programs offered at Texas Tech University, providing students with the resources they need to succeed in their studies.
• Research support: The library provides specialized collections and services to support faculty and graduate student researchers.

How to Borrow Books

1. Find the Books You Need

• Use the library’s online catalog, Omni, to search for books by title, author, subject, or keyword.
• Omni also provides access to electronic resources, such as e-books and online articles.
• Visit the physical library locations to browse the shelves and discover new materials.

2. Request the Books

• Once you have identified the books you need, click the “Request” button in Omni.
• You will be prompted to log in with your Texas Tech eRaider account.
• Select the library location where you want to pick up the books.

3. Pick Up the Books

• You will receive an email notification when the books are ready for pickup.
• Present your Texas Tech ID card at the Circulation Desk to retrieve the materials.

Loan Periods and Renewal

• Undergraduate Students: 60 days
• Graduate Students: 120 days
• Faculty and Staff: 12 months

Renewing Books

• Books can be renewed online through Omni up to three times, provided they are not overdue and have not been requested by another patron.
• To renew books online, log in to Omni, click on “My Account,” and select “Borrowed Items.”
• You can also renew books in person at the Circulation Desk.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overdue Books: Fines will be charged for overdue books. The daily fine is 25 cents per item.
• Lost Books: Patrons are responsible for any lost or damaged books. The replacement cost will be charged to the patron’s account.
• Requesting Books That Are Already Checked Out: If a book is already checked out, you will be placed on a waiting list.
• Exceeding Loan Limits: Patrons may have a maximum of 100 physical items checked out at any one time.

Returning Books

• Books can be returned to any Texas Tech University library location.
• Place the books in the designated book drop or return them to the Circulation Desk.
• You will receive an email confirmation once the books have been returned.

Technology Integration

The Texas Tech University Libraries are actively integrating technology to enhance the book loan experience.

• Omni Mobile App: The Omni mobile app allows patrons to search the catalog, request items, and renew books from their mobile devices.
• Self-Checkout Kiosks: Self-checkout kiosks are available at most library locations, allowing patrons to check out books quickly and conveniently.
• Online Book Request System: The online book request system allows patrons to request books from any Texas Tech University library location and have them delivered to their preferred pickup location.

Contact Information

For assistance with book loans, please contact the Circulation Desk at your nearest Texas Tech University library location.

Library Locations and Contact Information: