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Library services for MIT Alumni/ae: Library use

MIT campus access

Library use

The MIT Libraries encourage MIT alumni/ae to make use of the libraries during their visits to campus. Library hours and locations are available online.

Borrowing privileges

  • MIT alumni/ae may register for borrowing privileges at an MIT Libraries service desk by presenting their MIT ID for Alumni. For questions about borrowing privileges, contact circulation@mit.edu.
  • Privileges do not include off campus access to electronic resources, except those provided via the Alumni access program. Many other e-resources may be accessed on site in the MIT Libraries.  See access to collections for details.
  • Privileges do not include Interlibrary Borrowing from non-MIT institutions.

Reference help

Reference and information staff can:

  • assist alumni/ae in using the online catalog.
  • answer questions about locations of library materials.
  • make referrals to appropriate library collections and services at MIT and in the greater Boston area.
  • provide brief research assistance.
  • Full reference service is provided in the use of government document depository collections.

Some limitations apply:

  • Reference services are scheduled to meet the needs of the MIT community; times of available service vary from library to library.
  • Current MIT faculty, students and staff have priority access to physical, electronic, and staff resources.
  • Alumni/ae must abide by the Library use policy.

The following resources are available at all times:

  • The Virtual Reference Collection is a collection of useful reference websites compiled by MIT librarians.
  • Research guides, created by MIT librarians, recommend websites and resources for research in specific subject areas or on specific topics.

Document delivery

For a fee, MIT alumni/ae around the world can order MIT technical reports/working papers and theses from the MIT Libraries' extensive and unique collections.

Computer and network access

Computer use

  • Priority for computer use is given to MIT users, except for government document depository access, which is made equally available to all.
  • See the Library use policy for more information..

Wireless access

For information on wireless access, consult network connectivity for MIT guests.

Scanning

Self-service scanning is available, but there is no longer public printing. For more information see the Scan & Print guide.