Western Libraries supports and promotes the success of students, faculty, staff and programs of Western Washington University through knowledge resources and services, and strives to meet the research and curricular needs of the University community.

In addition, we provide access to information for students, faculty and staff of Western as well as to members of the larger community, to help enable users to become life-long learners and independent researchers.

Library Collections & Resources

Western Libraries offers specific collections and other resources that may be of special interest to community members. In addition, selected online electronic databases are accessible to community users from off-campus, without restriction via the Internet.

Access and Services Overview

Services available for free to all visitors:

• In-library use of most materials
  Including books, journals, newspapers, government documents, microforms, and audio/visual recordings
   
• Use of government materials
  The Government Documents Collection is open to anyone. Most material circulates and can be taken home for three weeks by anyone with valid identification. Copies of IRS Income Tax forms are also available.
   
• Use of public-access library computers
  To access the library catalog, electronic databases and other library resources, as well as the World Wide Web and web-based email. Visitor passwords are available from the Reference & Information Desk on Haggard 2.
   
• Publications and handouts
  Available at service desks and online through the library web site, describing services and collections. Includes our extensive collection of research tips and subject research guides.
   
• Assistance at service desks
  Reference assistance and help using resources and machines
   
• Audio listening and video viewing
  Devices for playing music, spoken word recordings, videos, and DVDs are available.

Services for community colleges:

For comprehensive information, consult the guide Resources and Services for Community College Students, Faculty and Staff.

Resources for K-12 area schools:

For comprehensive information, consult the website Services for Visitors.

Fee-based services available to visitors:

• Borrowing materials
• Printing from library computers: a copy card or Western Libraries CourtesyCommunity Card is required
• Self-serve photocopying and other copy services

Services not available to visitors:

• Borrowing through interlibrary loan - please go through your local library
• Borrowing from Summit union catalog - please go through your local library
• Use of some reserve and media material - check at the service desks
• Use of selected databases and other resources limited by license to the WWU community
• Use of computer labs (word processing and other applications)
• Group use of resources without prior approval - see Services for Visitors for more information