West Chester University Students
Full time and part time undergraduate and graduate students of West Chester University have access to many services offered at the libraries.
How does it work?
- Both on campus and distance education students who are currently enrolled or actively working on a Master's thesis may take advantage of library services.
- A WCU ID (Ram Card) is required to borrow materials.
- Distance learners may request materials via ILLiad. For more information, see Library Services for Distance Students.
What services can I use?
- Borrowing
- Interlibrary Loan
- Off campus access to electronic resources.
- Courtesy letter for borrowing privileges at PASSHE libraries or participating PALCI member libraries.
West Chester University Faculty, Staff, and Emeritus Faculty
Currently employed faculty and staff of West Chester University, as well as Emeritus Faculty, have access to many services offered at the libraries.
How does it work?
- A WCU ID (Ram Card) is required to borrow materials.
- Distance educators may request materials via ILLiad.
What services can I use?
- Borrowing
- Interlibrary Loan
- Off campus access to electronic resources.
- Courtesy letter for borrowing privileges at PASSHE libraries or participating PALCI member libraries.
- As state employees, faculty and staff may access the State Library of Pennsylvania's research databases and other materials by applying for a library card.
West Chester University Retired Faculty/Staff and Board of Trustees
Library cards are issued to retired faculty and staff as well as members of the Board of Trustees (at the request of Library Administration).
How does it work?
- Retired faculty and staff should contact the Library Help Desk to set up and update your account (610-436-2946 or libcirc@wcupa.edu).
- Members of the Board of Trustees should contact Library Administration (610-436-2747).
What services can I use?
- Borrowing
- Limited access to electronic resources within the libraries.
What services are not available?
- Interlibrary Loan
- Off campus access to electronic resources
- Printing
West Chester University Alumni
Graduates of West Chester University may take advantage of some library services.
How does it work?
- Apply for a library card at the Library Help Desk.
- Verification of graduation is needed as well as a photo ID.
- Library cards are valid for one year from issue date, at which point they may be renewed.
What services can I use?
- Borrowing
- Limited access to electronic resources within the libraries.
What services are not available?
- Interlibrary Loan
- Off campus access to electronic resources
- Printing
Students and Faculty from Other Colleges and Universities
Students and faculty from PASSHE universities or whose college/university participates in the PALCI Reciprocal On-Site Borrowing Program may receive a WCU Libraries Card with a courtesy letter issued by their college.
How does it work?
- Get a courtesy letter from your college library and present it to staff at the FHG Library Library Help Desk along with a photo ID.
- The courtesy letter must:
- Confirm the bearer is a currently enrolled student at that institution.
- Confirm that the institution accepts full financial responsibility for lost or damaged items.
- Library cards are valid until the end of the current semester, at which point it may be renewed.
What services can I use?
- Borrowing
- Limited access to electronic resources within the libraries.
What services are not available?
- Interlibrary Loan
- Off campus access to electronic resources
- Printing
Area Teachers
Teachers, principals, and administrators employed by area schools, colleges, and universities may apply for a library card.
How does it work?
- One of the following is required to show proof of current employment:
- Copy of current contract
- Current paystub
- Letter from principal confirming employment
- Telephone call to school's administrative office (8am-4pm Monday-Friday only)
- PSEA or Union Cards are NOT ACCEPTED
- Library cards are valid for one year from issue date, at which point it may be renewed.
What services can I use?
- Borrowing
- Limited access to electronic resources within the libraries.
What services are not available?
- Interlibrary Loan
- Off campus access to electronic resources
- Printing
General Public
High school students and area residents may apply for a library card.
How does it work?
- Apply for a library card at the Library Help Desk.
- A photo ID is required.
- Students under 15 years old need a parental co-signature.
- Library cards are valid for one year from issue date, at which point it may be renewed.
- Cost: $20 annual fee, cash or check payable to West Chester University
What services can I use?
- Borrowing
- Limited access to electronic resources within the libraries.
What services are not available?
- Interlibrary Loan
- Off campus access to electronic resources
- Printing