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Digital Course Reserve - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for teaching faculty


What is Digital Course Reserve?

Digital Course Reserve service allows enrolled students to electronically access books typically available in print, only when an eBook multi-user license is not available for University Libraries' purchase.


Is there a cost for this service?

No. This is a free service.


What materials can be placed on Digital Course Reserve?

Books owned by the University Libraries and required for courses can be placed on Digital Course Reserve. At this time, supplemental or recommended readings, including homework solutions, lecture notes, and sample exams, cannot be made available through the Digital Course Reserve service.


How many students can access the material?

Materials available through the Digital Course Reserve service are available in the same way a print book is available to users, only one person at a time may access the material. In cases where class enrollment surpasses 50 students, an additional copy may be acquired upon request.


How long will it take for materials to be available through Digital Course Reserve?

Requests are processed in the order received. Longer processing times may be necessary for materials not immediately available in the library. Delays may occur 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after the start of the semester. Submitting requests at least 4 weeks before the semester start date is encouraged to ensure timely availability.

Under exceptional circumstances, for expedited processing, please contact the appropriate Reserve Specialist.


How will students in my course access the content available through Digital Course Reserve?

Once the material is available via the Digital Course Reserve Service, students can search the title on the Library website to access the material. Direct link(s) to the material(s) along with instructions for student access will also be provided.


Will students need special software to view and check out these materials?

No special software is required; students can access the material directly within the library's webpage.


How long will students be able to use materials available on Digital Course Reserve?

Materials are available for 2-hour access with unlimited renewals. Students who join a waitlist when the maximum user limit is reached will be notified when the material is available for viewing.


Will the print be available for loan?

No, the print item is removed from circulation and is not available for loan.


What are the advantages of Digital Course Reserve compared to traditional Course Reserve?

  • Available 24/7
  • Accessible from anywhere
  • Students can join a waitlist and receive email notifications when an item becomes available

Will the link to digital material expire?

Yes, all links will expire at the end of the current semester.