Using the Library

Checking Out Materials

Bring your OtterID card when borrowing materials. Self-check stations are available at the checkout counter. Some items are kept behind the counter and must be requested from library staff. Item locations are listed in OneSearch.

Students who are not visiting campus can access many books, articles and media online through OneSearch and the Library’s databases. The Online Library Guide highlights services and resources available remotely.

Computer Access

Desktop PCs are available to the CSUMB community on the first floor of the library. Additional student-use computers are available in the Information Literacy Room 2145 when library instruction is not in session. Please follow posted guidelines for safe and appropriate computer use.

Printing, Scanning and Copying

Printing

Wepa Otter Printing Stations are available in the following locations:

• Tanimura & Antle Family Memorial Library
• Business & Information Technology Building
• Chapman Science Center
• Otter Student Union
• Heron Hall

Scanning

A scanner is available in the main computing area on the first floor of the library. Scanning is not available in the Otter Student Union.

Copy Machines and Fax Services

Copy machines and public fax services are not available on campus. Plan ahead if you need change; vendors provide change only with purchases and only for the amount owed.

The CSUMB Library offers private and group study rooms to support academic success. Study rooms are available by reservation only and are limited to currently enrolled CSUMB students.

Reservation Guidelines

• Eligibility — Only current CSUMB students may reserve or use study rooms.
• Scheduling — Rooms may be reserved by individuals or groups.
• Time Limits — Each student or group may reserve up to 2 hours per day.
• Reservation Blocks — All reservations start and end on the hour.
• Extended Use — If no one is scheduled immediately after your time, you may remain in the room until the next reservation begins.
• No-Show Policy — If a reserved room is not claimed within 10 minutes, it becomes available on a first-come, first-served basis until the next scheduled reservation.

Additional Information

• Personal Items — The library is not responsible for items left unattended in study rooms.

Faculty & Staff Use: Due to limited availability, faculty and campus organizations should arrange alternative spaces for classes, meetings or consultations.

Reserve a Study Room

The Cal State Monterey Bay Library offers a family-friendly study room designed to support students, staff and faculty who are studying while caring for children. This space provides a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment for focused work with children present.

The room is available on a first-come, first-served basis and can accommodate up to six people at a time, including children. Childcare services are not provided.

Location

Tanimura and Antle Family Memorial Library, Room 2102

Cal State Monterey Bay is committed to supporting the needs of nursing parents. The Library Lactation Room (Room 1126) is available as a private, quiet space for expressing milk or nursing.

Room Use Guidelines

Purpose

The room is designated for individual use only and is intended exclusively for lactation or nursing.

The Lactation Room is not for:

• Studying, lounging or meetings
• Group activities or socializing
• Storage or work breaks
  

Access

• Available on a first-come, first-served basis during library hours
• If occupied, ask a library staff member for alternative space options

Time Limit

Usage is limited to 60 minutes per session.

Clean-Up

• Users are responsible for cleaning up after themselves
• Do not leave personal items in the room; the library is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged belongings

The Special Reserve collection features materials of academic and community interest, including:

• Publications from the California State University system, including Cal State Monterey Bay
• Materials related to the Monterey Bay region
• Resources documenting the history and impact of former Fort Ord
• Unique or time-sensitive items of special interest

Current CSUMB students, faculty and staff, as well as community members, may check out Special Reserve materials.

Find Special Reserve Materials

Search the CSUMB Library Catalog and limit results by location: Special Reserve.

Checkout and Loan Periods

• A photo ID is required.
• If you do not have a current CSUMB ID card, your photo ID will be held during checkout.
• Most items circulate for 2 hours.
• Some items may circulate for 1 day or 3 days, depending on the material.

Because of their high demand and time-sensitive value:

• Renewals must be completed in person by the original borrower.
• Phone renewals are not permitted.
• Holds and recalls are not available.

Returns

All Special Reserve items must be returned directly to the Library Circulation Desk.

Items left on tables, in book stacks or in computer labs remain the responsibility of the borrower until properly returned. Fines will continue to accrue until the item is checked in at the Circulation Desk.

Overdue, Lost or Damaged Items

• Overdue fines: $0.50 per hour, up to $20 per item
• Borrowers are responsible for lost or damaged materials.

Replacement options include:

• Providing an identical or comparable replacement approved by a librarian, or
• Paying the replacement cost plus a $20 processing fee

For full details, see the Overdue, Recall and Replacement Fees Policy.

Copyright Notice

Some Special Reserve materials may be protected by U.S. copyright law. Users are responsible for complying with applicable copyright regulations.

Expand Your Search

Need something that isn’t on our shelves? Through CSU+ and Interlibrary Loan, you can search beyond Cal State Monterey Bay and borrow materials from libraries across the CSU system, the Monterey Bay region and around the world. Whether you’re looking for books, articles or media, resource sharing makes it easy to access the materials you need to support your research, teaching and learning — often in just a few days.

Learn more about Resource Sharing.

Have a title in mind that would support your learning, teaching, or research? We want to hear from you.

The CSUMB Library welcomes suggestions for books, eBooks or media to add to our collection. Your recommendations help us build a collection that reflects the needs and interests of our campus community.

We review all requests based on relevance to CSUMB programs, availability and budget.

How to Suggest a Title

Use the Suggest a Book Purchase form to request materials that:

• Are not currently owned by the CSUMB Library
• Are not available through CSU+ or Interlibrary Loan
• Support your coursework, research or instruction

We appreciate your input and do our best to fulfill requests whenever possible.

The CSUMB Library supports student success, faculty research and community learning. Find your borrowing privileges below.

Borrowing Responsibilities (All Users)

• Library cards are non-transferable.
• Items must be returned by the due date to the Circulation Desk or book return bins.
• Late, lost or damaged materials are subject to fees under the Overdue, Recall and Replacement Fees Policy.
• Abuse of privileges may result in suspension of borrowing rights.
• Theft or mutilation of materials is subject to prosecution under applicable laws.

CSUMB Students

Getting Started

• Your current CSUMB ID card is required to borrow materials.
• Bring items to the Circulation Desk for checkout.
• Some students may be asked to complete a registration form.

Loan Periods

• Books: 6 months
• DVDs/Videotapes: 30 days
• Audio CDs: 30 days
• Course and Special Reserves: 2 hours, 1 day or 3 days
• Periodicals and Reference Materials: In-library use only

Renewals

• Most books may be renewed online, by phone or by email.
• Course Reserves cannot be renewed.

Holds and Recalls

• Holds and recalls are not available.
• If an item is checked out, request it through OneSearch or use Interlibrary Loan.

CSUMB Faculty and Staff

Getting Started

• Present your CSUMB ID at the Circulation Desk.
• Complete a registration form to activate privileges.

Loan Periods

• Books: 1 year
• DVDs/Videotapes: 30 days
• Audio CDs: 30 days
• Course and Special Reserves: 2 hours, 1 day or 3 days
• Periodicals and Reference Materials: In-library use only

Renewals

• Most books may be renewed online, by phone or by email.
• Course Reserves cannot be renewed.

Holds and recalls are not available. Checked-out items may be requested through OneSearch.

Students, Faculty and Staff From Other CSU Campuses

• Borrow up to 25 books for 3 weeks
• Renew most items twice
• In-library access to materials and public computers
• Course Reserve access by prior arrangement only

Not available: book recalls, interlibrary loan or remote access to CSUMB-licensed databases (use your home campus library for remote access).

Registration required at the Circulation Desk with verification of CSU status.

Affiliated Institutions (Including Monterey Peninsula College)

• Borrow up to 25 books for 3 weeks
• Renew most items twice
• In-library access to collections and public computers

Not available: recalls, Course Reserves, interlibrary loan or remote database access.

Semester registration required with proof of current enrollment or employment.

Alumni, Emeriti and Retired CSU Faculty

• Borrow up to 10 books for 3 weeks
• Renew items twice
• In-library access to collections

Not available: recalls, Course Reserves, interlibrary loan or remote database access
(CSUMB emeriti faculty may be eligible for remote database access.)

Registration required at the Circulation Desk with verification of status.

Domestic Partners of CSUMB Faculty and Staff

• Borrow up to 10 books for 3 weeks
• Renew most items twice
• In-library access to materials

Not available: recalls, Course Reserves or interlibrary loan.
Remote database access must be arranged through CSUMB Information Technology.

Registration and status verification required.

General Public

• Borrow up to 10 books for 3 weeks
• In-library access to books, periodicals and public computers

Not available: recalls, Course Reserves, interlibrary loan, laptops, games, musical instruments or remote database access.

The CSUMB Library is a shared academic space that supports reading, research, collaboration, and learning. To maintain an environment that is safe, respectful, and accessible to all, we ask that library users follow the conduct guidelines below.

Our Commitment to You

The library strives to provide:

• Equitable access to collections, technology and spaces
• Complete and undamaged materials, including books, journals and media
• A safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for study, research and academic collaboration

Your Role in Supporting the Library Community

All library users help maintain a productive learning space by:

• Checking out materials properly and returning or renewing them on time
• Responding promptly to recall requests so others can access needed items
• Avoiding damage to library books and materials—please don’t write in, highlight, or alter them
• Being mindful with food and drink to prevent spills or damage to books, computers, and furnishings
• Using shared computers considerately, especially during peak hours
• Interacting respectfully with library staff and fellow users
• Managing noise by using designated group study areas for conversations and keeping quiet in silent zones
• Keeping walkways clear—bikes must be parked outside, and skateboards, scooters, and similar items should not block aisles
• Leaving promptly at closing time or during emergency situations and drills
• Requesting permission before filming, photographing, or recording inside the library; contact library staff for approval

Following these expectations helps create a space where all Otters can study, explore and thrive. Thank you for contributing to a positive library experience.

The CSUMB Library provides computer access to support the academic and research needs of the campus community. Our computing resources are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to CSUMB students, faculty, and staff.

Access and Eligibility

• CSUMB users (students, faculty, staff) — Full access to library workstations
• Public users — Limited access to designated computers in the Reference Area, for research and access to the library’s electronic collections

Library staff may ask for verification of current enrollment or employment to ensure availability for the CSUMB community.

Prioritization of Use

Primary Use

Academic work — including coursework, research and scholarly activities — takes first priority.

Secondary Use

Other university-related activities that support the campus mission, including limited personal communication (e.g., checking email or completing university forms).

Tertiary Use

Recreational use by CSUMB-affiliated individuals is permitted if it does not interfere with availability or place excessive demands on resources.

Note: Commercial use of library computers is strictly prohibited.

Expectations for Use

To ensure a respectful, shared space, all users are expected to follow the Library Conduct Policy. This includes using equipment responsibly, treating staff and fellow users with courtesy, and adhering to university technology use guidelines.

Internet Access and Responsibility

• The library supports freedom of inquiry and access to information in line with the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights
• Library computers are not filtered, and users access the internet at their own discretion
• Parents and guardians are responsible for monitoring internet use by minors

For questions about computer access or availability, please ask a staff member at the Research Help Desk.

Food and drinks are currently allowed in all public areas of the library, including study rooms.

To help maintain a clean, comfortable environment for everyone:

• Be mindful of mess and odors
• Use spill-proof containers when possible
• Clean up after yourself
• Dispose of trash and recyclables properly

Please help us keep library materials, computers and furnishings in good condition for the entire campus community.

This policy is subject to change based on campus health and safety guidelines.

The CSUMB Library bulletin board is a shared space reserved for approved announcements from recognized CSUMB organizations and sponsored campus events.

To post a notice:

• All materials must be approved by library staff before posting
• Unauthorized or unapproved postings will be removed
• Defacing, altering or removing approved notices may be referred to the Office of Student Conduct

Please refrain from posting personal messages. For individual communication, we recommend using email, text or messaging apps.

This policy is subject to change based on university guidelines and space availability. For questions or to request approval, visit the Circulation Desk or contact library staff.

To ensure fair access to materials, all library users are responsible for returning borrowed items on time and in good condition. Your CSUMB OtterCard serves as your library card and must be used to check out materials.

Your Responsibilities

• You are responsible for all items checked out on your OtterCard, even if you lend them to someone else
• Cards are non-transferable; lending your card or borrowing for another person makes you liable for any late, lost or damaged items
• If your OtterCard is lost or stolen, report it immediately and request a replacement through the Campus Service Center
• Materials are due by closing time on the due date
• Return items to the Circulation Desk during open hours or to the after-hours book drop when the library is closed
• Keep your address up to date; you are responsible for returned mail and missed notifications
• Not receiving an overdue notice is not a valid reason to waive fees

Late Returns and Fees

• Fees begin accruing only on days the library is open
• Items not returned within six weeks of the due date will be billed for replacement and assessed a non-refundable processing fee
• If overdue items are returned within six months, replacement charges may be refunded; after six months, all charges are final
• Borrowing privileges may be suspended, and university records may be held if items are overdue or fees are unpaid

Fee Schedule

• Course Reserves (2-hour loan) — Charged at $0.50 per hour, up to a maximum of $50
• Course Reserves (1-day or 3-day loan) — Charged at $5 per day, with a maximum fee of $50
• Requested, On Hold or Recalled Items — Charged at $5 per day, not to exceed $50.
• DVDs — Charged at $5 per day, with a maximum fee of $50
• Lost Special Reserve Items — A $20 non-refundable processing fee is charged in addition to the replacement cost
• Other Lost Items — Also incur a $20 processing fee plus the cost to replace the item
  

Replacement costs vary by item type. Materials not specifically listed may require special processing and may be subject to additional fees at the discretion of the library.

Note: Replacement costs vary depending on the item type. Items not listed may be subject to special processing or fees at the library’s discretion.

Paying Fees

All overdue fees must be paid at the Student Services Building (Building 47) at the cashier’s window during regular business hours.

Policy Status

This policy is subject to change. For questions about fees or account holds, please contact the Circulation Desk.

Faculty and staff at Cal State Monterey Bay may authorize another individual to check out library materials and pick up interlibrary loan items on their behalf through the Proxy Borrowing Program.

Who Is Eligible?

• Proxy authorization is available to current CSUMB faculty and staff only
• The faculty or staff member must be registered with the library before proxy privileges can be granted
• The proxy — who may be a CSUMB student, staff or faculty member — must also be registered with the library

How to Set Up Proxy Borrowing

Complete the Proxy Authorization Form

• Submit one form per proxy
• Download the Proxy Authorization Form (PDF)

In-Person Verification

The proxy must bring the completed and signed form to the Library Circulation Desk.

Required ID:

• The faculty/staff member’s CSUMB photo ID
• The proxy’s valid photo ID

Ongoing Authorization

If long-term proxy access is needed, the form will be kept on file until the expiration date.

For future checkouts, the proxy must:

• Show their own photo ID plus the faculty/staff member’s CSUMB ID, or
• Have prior authorization confirmed by the faculty/staff member via phone or email

What the Proxy Can Do

• Borrow CSUMB Library materials under the faculty/staff member’s account
• Pick up Document Delivery and Interlibrary Loan (ILL) items requested by the faculty/staff member
• Borrow an unlimited number of books for a standard 6-week loan period

All items will be charged to the faculty/staff member’s account. Any notifications or overdue notices will be sent directly to the faculty/staff member, not the proxy.

Important Guidelines

Proxy use is strictly for academic or professional purposes on behalf of the faculty/staff member. Proxies may not use this access for personal borrowing, and authorization may not be transferred to another individual.

By signing the Proxy Authorization Form, the faculty/staff member:

• Accepts full responsibility for all items borrowed or picked up by their proxy, including any late, lost, or damaged materials
• Agrees to notify the library immediately if the authorization should be canceled

The CSUMB Library reserves the right to revoke proxy privileges if library policies are violated.

Questions?

For assistance or to confirm a proxy transaction, contact the Library Circulation Desk.

The CSUMB Library curates collections that support academic success, lifelong learning and the values outlined in the university’s Founding Vision Statement. Our approach emphasizes access, equity, sustainability and alignment with the university’s interdisciplinary, multicultural and service-oriented mission.

Guiding Principles

• Support for CSUMB Curricula — We prioritize materials that directly support the university’s undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs
• Electronic Preferred — When feasible and affordable, we choose digital formats for broader, more flexible access
• Inclusive and Ethical Collection — We intentionally include diverse voices, languages and perspectives to reflect the needs of our community and uphold intellectual freedom
• Access Over Ownership — Through CSU+ and interlibrary loan, users can access resources beyond our local holdings
• Information Literacy and Instruction — We provide guidance to help users navigate, evaluate and use resources effectively.

What We Collect

• Books and eBooks — In English and in languages taught at CSUMB
• Journals — Primarily electronic, with a focus on peer-reviewed and indexed sources
• Media — Streaming video, DVDs and audio in support of course content
• Government Publications — Primarily full-text digital formats
• K-12 and Juvenile Materials — To support teacher preparation programs
• Archives and Special Collections — Focused on CSUMB history, Fort Ord and regional communities
• Institutional Repository — Digital Commons @ CSUMB preserves student, faculty and institutional work

We do not generally collect rare books, popular fiction, vinyl, audiobooks or realia unless specifically supporting instructional needs.

How We Select

Library faculty lead collection development in partnership with subject matter experts and based on:

• Relevance to curriculum and research
• Authoritativeness and scope
• Diversity and representation
• Cost, licensing and format
• Usage data and feedback

Decisions about high-cost resources, subscriptions or shared platforms are made collectively.

Weeding and Evaluation

The library routinely reviews collections to remove outdated, damaged or irrelevant items. This ensures alignment with academic priorities and responsible use of space and resources.

Gifts and Donations

We accept donations that support academic programs and reserve the right to retain, redistribute or decline materials. We do not provide appraisals or accept gifts with conditions. Monetary donations to purchase library materials are welcomed and reviewed by the Library Dean.

Digital Commons @ CSUMB

Our institutional repository collects, preserves and shares scholarly and creative work by CSUMB students, faculty and staff. Learn more or request a submission at Digital Commons @ CSUMB.

Policy Status

This policy is reviewed and updated as needed, with major reviews scheduled every five years.

The Cal State Monterey Bay Library welcomes donations of books, media and monetary gifts that support the university’s academic programs and learning goals. All potential donations are evaluated using the same criteria we apply when purchasing materials.

What We Accept

• Books and other media that align with CSUMB’s curriculum
• Journals and magazines, if they fill significant gaps in our holdings
• Monetary gifts to support the purchase of library materials

Acceptance of a gift does not guarantee its addition to the library’s collection. Materials are reviewed title-by-title by the appropriate subject librarian.

For more information on how materials are selected, see our Collection Development and Access Policy.

Before Donating Materials

To help us evaluate potential donations:

• Contact the subject librarian before bringing items to the library
• For larger donations, provide an inventory with basic information (title, author, publisher, date) for each item
• If accepted, the librarian will coordinate a delivery or drop-off plan with the donor

The library reserves the right to retain, donate, sell or recycle any donated materials.

Donating Journals or Magazines

We typically do not accept full runs or large batches unless they address clear gaps in our collection.

Gift subscriptions (minimum three years) may be accepted as:

• A monetary donation to fund the subscription
• An institutional-rate subscription delivered directly to the library

Interested donors should first contact the appropriate subject librarian.

Monetary Donations

We gratefully accept monetary gifts designated for purchasing materials that support CSUMB courses and research.

To make a donation or discuss options, please contact the Library Dean or the Office of University Development.

Acknowledgment and Valuation

• Donors will complete a gift form that includes a general description and self-reported estimated value
• Donors of monetary gifts will receive a formal acknowledgment letter
• The library cannot appraise the value of donated materials per CSU policy

If needed for tax purposes, donors should obtain an independent appraisal. IRS regulations require a professional appraisal for tax-deductible gifts valued at $5,000 or more.

Policy Status

This policy has been reviewed by Library Faculty and approved by the Library Dean. Subject to change.