Alumni of the University of Chicago

Everyone is welcome to consult the Library’s print and electronic collections by visiting the Library.

UChicago alumni may also borrow materials for a quarterly or annual fee and access a group of specially licensed databases from off-campus locations.

Borrowing

Alumni may choose to purchase quarterly borrowing privileges. Alumni with borrowing privileges may borrow up to 25 items concurrently.

To obtain a borrowing card, please bring a current, government-issued photo ID to the ID & Privileges Office in the lobby of the Joseph Regenstein Library.

Graduates of the Laboratory School and Members of the Alumni Association with an "X" status may purchase borrowing privileges once they have obtained their University of Chicago Alumni Association card.

Alumni Fees to Purchase Borrowing (up to 25 concurrent items)

Fees are based on the year you received your degree, and may be purchased for either a quarter or a year at a time.

  • Degree received within previous year
    • per quarter: $50
    • per year: $175
  • Degree received more than one year ago
    • per quarter: $75
    • per year: $250

Limitations to Alumni Borrowing Privileges

Purchasing borrowing privileges does not give alumni off-campus access to subscription services. However, access to a group of specially licensed databases is available online from off-campus locations, regardless of borrowing privileges.

Alumni are not eligible to use the Library's Interlibrary Loan or Scan & Deliver services.

Renewing Alumni Borrowing Privileges

You can renew borrowing privileges in person by visiting the ID & Privileges Office to submit your payment and renew your card.

You can also renew borrowing privileges by calling 773-702-3344 and paying by credit card. You'll still need to visit the ID & Privileges Office in person to renew your card.

Accessing Electronic Resources

Alumni may access most of the Library’s electronic resources only while in Library buildings, due to site licensing agreements. Access to a group of specially licensed databases is available online from off-campus locations.

While in Library buildings, Alumni may use Library computers or the Library’s wireless network to access electronic resources and printing using their CNetID. Alumni who do not already have a CNetID can claim a CNetID online.

See Computers & Wireless for more information.

Keeping Contact Information Current

All library users are responsible for keeping their personal contact information updated.

Login to My Library Account and choose Profile to view your current contact information.

For instructions on updating your contact information, including your preferred first name, see Catalog Help - Profile.

Lost or Stolen Cards

If your UChicago Card or Library Card is lost or stolen, please follow the Lost/Stolen Card Procedure.

To replace a lost or stolen card, visit the ID & Privileges Office.

Services for Users with Disabilities

See Services for Users with Disabilities if you need assistance in accessing our collections.

Policies While Visiting the Library

We expect all users to abide by all Library policies, including Library Conduct Policies.

The University of Chicago Library reserves the right to bar anyone from any or all parts of its premises. Disruptive or inappropriate behavior or any other violations of Library policies may result in suspension of visitor access.

The Library may limit visitor access during especially busy periods.

Safety Resources on Campus

Enroll in the cAlert System by texting "calert" to 226787 to receive emergency alerts from the University of Chicago Department of Safety and Security.

The UChicago Safe mobile app is a quick and easy way to access campus safety information.