UPDATE (March 17): Libraries will move to remote consultations and services only beginning March 18
Dear Carolina community,
As the University prepares to move most classes to remote instruction in light of COVID-19, the University Libraries is likewise preparing to provide support in this new environment.
This email outlines what to expect from us and how you may continue to access library collections and services, even when you are away from campus.
Remote Access and Services
UNC-Chapel Hill affiliates have full access to all online library collections, e-books, streaming films and databases by authenticating with your ONYEN. Always start your search at https://library.unc.edu or https://hsl.lib.unc.edu to ensure that you have access to articles without encountering a paywall.
Online course reserves remain available. We are working closely with instructors to add materials to Sakai sites for remote instruction. Visit our Remote Services page to learn more about student and instructor services.
If you would like to consult with a librarian, there are several ways for you to do so without coming to campus. You do not need to be a Carolina affiliate to reach out to us in one of the following ways:
UPDATE (March 17): Find updated hours here.
- Use one of these chat or email tools:
- General inquiries – Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Health Sciences Library or text 919-584-5931 – Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Wilson Special Collections Library or wilsonlibrary@unc.edu, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Schedule a remote consultation with a subject expert at a specific time.
- Call one of the libraries listed below during operating hours.
Library hours
During the transitional week of March 16, as we prepare for increased online activity, campus library hours will be as follows:
UPDATE (March 17): Find updated hours here.
- Davis Library – Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Health Sciences Library – Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Undergraduate Library – Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- The Wilson Library building will be open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but all reading rooms and exhibitions will be closed.
We will assess the evolving situation and actual need before finalizing library hours for the weekend and for subsequent weeks. We will update the Library Hours page as we make these decisions.
If you need books or other items from one of the branch libraries, we will page them for you to retrieve at Davis Library. Please use the “Request” feature in the online catalog.
Please note that the Law Library will establish its hours and services through a separate process.
Borrowing and Fines
We have automatically renewed all books that are currently on loan, with a new due date of May 5. No fines will accrue on these items and you should not receive overdue notices. You do not need to take any action if you have books checked out in your name.
Events and Programs
All in-person University Libraries events, programs and workshops have been cancelled for the remainder of the semester. Some workshops and instruction will move to the virtual environment. Visit the University Libraries’ online calendar for information.
Additional Information
We will continue to provide updates about library hours and services at https://library.unc.edu/covid-19-updates/.
To learn more about COVID-19, visit the Health Science Library’s online guide to COVID-19 resources.
Please know that the University Libraries’ staff and I are committed to providing the best possible service to you in the online environment, just as we always have in person. I hope you will all take care during this challenging time.
Sincerely,
Elaine L. Westbrooks
Vice Provost for University Libraries and University Librarian
