Loan periods, recalls and fines
Borrowing from the Library
Once you have found the item(s) you require, take them with your matriculation card to either the Self-Issue machines, which are located on each floor of the Library, or to the Reader Services desk located on Level 2 (the entrance floor of the Library).
Returning items to the Library
Short Loans should be returned using the self return facilities on the Self-Issue machines located in the Short Loan area on Level 2 of the Main Library.
Normal or multiple copy items can either be returned directly to staff at the Reader Services desk or placed in the book drop located at the end of the Reader Services desk.
If the Library is closed, items can be returned through the book drop located outside the Main Door. Please note, this facility should only be used if the Library is closed.
Lost Library cards and change of address
Students
- There is a £15 charge for a replacement card. To ensure a fast and efficient process you can only pay for your replacement card on-line with a debit or credit card. The on-line payment system will automatically notify BI of your payment and replacement card request.
- If you have changed your address - please update your details through the student portal.
Staff
- Lost cards should be reported to IT Services, either by phone (ext. 2532) or by email (idcards@st-andrews.ac.uk).
Non St Andrews students, staff and Library members
- Lost cards and change of address should be reported either to Reader Services (01334 462283), or by email (library@st-andrews.ac.uk)
How many books may I borrow?
You may borrow up to 4 books from the Short Loan Collection, at one time, but these are counted as part of the totals below.
| Undergraduates | 25 | Subscription readers | 30 |
| Postgraduates | 40 | Students elsewhere / admitted readers | 15 |
| Staff | 50 |
When are books due back?
Long loan books are due back in four weeks (undergraduates) or any time up to a year (postgraduates and staff). They can be renewed up to four times by undergraduates and up to three times by postgraduates and staff.
Multiple copy loans are due back in one week and can be renewed up to 20 times (all readers).
Recalled books
Items may be recalled at any time if they are required by another reader. A recall email notice will be sent to your University email account informing you of the change of due date. When this happens please return the books as soon as possible before the required date. Late return of items not only inconveniences other users but will also incur late return fees.
Short Loan items
Please note, Short Loans are available for 4 hours or overnight borrowing from 17.00 Monday-Thursday. If items are borrowed on Friday or Saturday after 5pm they will be due at 11am the next day.
How to recall a book or periodical
If the item you want has been borrowed, you can place a hold on an item yourself by using the Recall facility on any of the SAULCAT PCs. Reader Services staff can also place a hold on an the item for you, if you give them the details.
Please allow approximately seven days for material to be returned.
Fine rates
The charges for items damaged, lost or stolen are calculated as the item replacement current price, plus an administration fee of £5.00 per item. If a replacement copy is provided, the Library reserves the right to decline, then to invoice accordingly, should the replacement be unsuitable for any reason. Please note, an administration fee of £5.00 per item will be charged in addition to the replacement copy being provided.
Long loan (overdue) - £0.20 per day
Long loan (recalled) - £1.00 per day
Multiple Copy (overdue) - £0.50 per day
Multiple Copy (recalled) - £1.00 per day
Audio visual - £1.00 per day
Short loan - £0.50 per hour
Please note: Library borrowing privileges are automatically suspended for users with fines exceeding £10.00. Payment of the fines will normally reinstate borrowing rights.
