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NWACC Library

What Are Course Reserves?

The Library's Course Reserves service allows faculty and instructors to make recommended or required course materials in a variety of formats--books, articles, media, and even rocks-- available to their students for use in the library only or for an abbreviated check out period. These materials are held at the Circulation Desk and limited checkout times to allow all students in a particular course to share the materials equitably.

  • Due to cost, textbooks are by far the most requested item for Course Reserves. Faculty may donate or loan a textbook to the library and we will then make it available to the students for use in the library for a short check out period. Faculty may retrieve any items loaned to the library at any time.

How Do I Find and Check Out a Course Reserve?

  • View the Library Catalog's course reserves collection. If your class is listed, click the course name to see items available on reserve. You can also check with your instructor or a Library staff member to find out whether a reserve is being held for your class.
  • Bring your NWACC student ID card to the library's front desk, where reserve materials are held. Because of high demand, you may check out only one reserve item at a time.
  • Most reserve items are for library use only, meaning they cannot leave the library.
  • Some course reserves may have a checkout period of 2 to 7 days.

What Happens If I Forget to Return or Lose a Reserve Item?

Students expect reserve items to be on the shelf when they are supposed to be so they can use them. It is very important that you do not lose or forget to return course reserves since these materials are needed by other members of your class.

  • Course reserves designated for library use only must not be taken from the library.
    • These items check out for 2 hours.
  • All overdue course reserve items are charged a fine of $2.00 per day up to two weeks (14 calendar days).
    • After that, the cost of the item (minimum $35.00) will be charged to the student's library account.
    • At this time, the library will take steps to replace the item.
    • Whether or not the item is returned, the replacement cost must be paid.
  • A hold will be placed on the student's library account, barring him/her from borrowing other materials until the fine is paid.
  • A hold will be placed on the student's Banner account, making it impossible to receive grades, transcripts, or graduate until the fine is paid.
  • Depending on the item's replacement cost, unpaid fines may be reported to a collection agency.

Can I Place a Reserve Item on Hold?

Reserve items available for 2 and 7 day checkout may be placed on hold. Items designated as library use only cannot be held.

  • Place a hold on the item in the library's catalog by conducting a search for the item, clicking Place Hold, and logging into your account using your NWACC email prefix and ID number. Once logged in, confirm your selection by clicking Place Hold.
  • Or, you can call the Library at 479-619-4244 or email library@nwacc.edu to place the hold.
  • Have your student ID number available when you place the hold and bring your NWACC Student ID card with you when you come to check out the item.
  • You will receive an email notification at your @nwacc.edu address when the item becomes available. The library will hold it until closing of the following business day. You may request a longer hold time by contacting the library.