Library FAQs - COVID-19 - Novel Coronavirus - LibGuides at Murray State University

Social Distancing in the Library and COVID-Related Changes

To meet social distancing guidelines and best practices, University Libraries have implemented the following changes this semester:

Only two people are allowed per table to maintain good social distancing.
Masks/face coverings are required in all library spaces (they must cover mouth and nose).
Approximately half of the computers in the labs have been taken out of services to ensure six feet between computer users.
We have reduced the maximum capacity of our library facilities.

Additionally, you will notice the following changes to library services:

Library users will be required to scan their Racer ID card upon entrance and exit to the building.
No food will be allowed in the library, and drinking fountains will be unavailable.
The Information Desk will be closed for the fall semester. Research & Instruction librarians and information services staff will be available virtually.
Interlibrary loan materials should be picked up from the Circulation desk.
Students Only: Laptops will be available for a 7 day checkout with one renewal. There will be a $1 per day fine for overdue laptops.

Statement

Murray State is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to communicate to students via their murraystate.edu email and parents via the Murray State website Racer Restart Initiative.

General

Is the Library Open?

UPDATE August 21, 2020: Waterfield Library and Pogue Library are currently open to Murray State students, staff, and faculty. Wrather Museum is closed through the 20-21 academic year.

You can locate information about the Library's hours here.

Can I eat in the library?

No, due to health concerns, University Libraries is requesting that visitors do not eat in the library until further notice.

Can I check out a laptop for the semester?

No. Waterfield Library is not currently checking out laptops for the semester. Depending upon availability, Students will be allowed to check out a laptop for a 7-day checkout period with one renewal.

Can I check out books and DVDs?

Books and media materials may be checked out from the library under normal library policies.

Can I check out board games?

Due to sanitation concerns, Waterfield Library will not be lending any board games.

I have materials checked out, how can I return them?

Students and faculty can return items to any of the book drop locations or to the circulation desk.

Laptops should be returned to the circulation desk.

How do I access ebooks, databases, and online journals?

Murray State's electronic resources are available 24/7 to all students, faculty, and staff whether you are on or off-campus.

Your user id and network password will grant you access to our databases, electronic journals, streaming films, and ebook collections.

Is there a space in the library that I can use to Zoom a class?

You can use Zoom with headphones in the library in any of the public spaces except for the Quiet Floor (upper level). Remember, you must still wear your mask when you are zooming in the library.

Research and Instruction Support

Can I still get assistance from the Writing Center?

The writing center is accepting online appointments only. Students may schedule appointments from their webpage.

I need to locate scholarly information, can I get help with my research paper, class assignment, or other research needs?

Research and Instruction Librarians are available online to assist you with questions that you may have about using our resources or ways to find the best resources on a topic. Call, Text, or E-mail for assistance.

Phone: (270) 809-2053
Text: (270) 681-3811
msu.libraries@murraystate.edu

Is the Library providing library tours?

No, library staff will not be holding any tours for the fall semester. A virtual tour has been created and is available here.

Can I still request Interlibrary Loans?

University Libraries will begin accepting physical item request starting on August 4, 2020. Our ability to fulfill physical requests will be limited for the foreseeable future. Due to COVID-19, many libraries are still not lending physical items.

Electronic document delivery will proceed as normal.

I need an item that is only available in print, can I have it scanned?

Due to copyright restrictions only small portions of print materials can be copied. If you need assistance with a title please contact the library directly.

Can I add Library Instruction to my online class?

Library Instruction will be virtual for the fall semester. Instructors may request a Zoom tutorial session or Racer Library tutorials are available to integrate into your Canvas Course through the Canvas Commons. If you would like a specialized library tutorial for your course, please contact your department's library liaison.