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Borrowing guide

Clear rules for borrowing, renewal, holds, and returns.

A practical guide for using The Athenaeum collection with confidence, from first checkout to final return.

The Athenaeum

Borrowing at a glance

Generous access, clear policies, and friendly support — so you can focus on what’s next.

Standard loan

21 days

Most books and circulating materials.

Renewals

2x

Most eligible items can be renewed twice.

Hold pickup

3 days

Items are held for 3 days after notification.

Desk support

Daily

Get help from our team every day.

Loan periods

Borrow by material type

Loan policies are built to balance generous access with fair circulation for high-demand materials.

Borrow by material type
MaterialLoan periodRenewalNotes
Books
21 days2 renewalsPlace holds when all copies are out.
Reference
In libraryNo renewalsAsk staff for scans or support.
Course reserve
2 hoursNo renewalsHigh-demand access at the desk.
Media kits
7 days1 renewalReturn directly to circulation.
How it works

From discovery to return

Browse catalog
1

Find

Search the catalog by title, author, ISBN, or subject.

2

Borrow

Bring available copies to the desk or ask a librarian for checkout support.

3

Renew

Extend eligible loans before the due date from your account.

4

Return

Return books on time so the next reader can access them.