Public Library Expands Access to College Collections

• University of California at San Diego
  
• San Diego State University
  
• University of San Diego
  
• California State University San Marcos
  
• San Diego County Library System 

Through the SDPL library website at sandiegolibrary.org, SDPL customers can request items available in member libraries that are not available in the SDPL catalog or circulating collection. Customers can request that Circuit items be shipped to their local branch library for pick up. There is no fee for patrons opting to use this service, providing that books are returned on time and in good condition.
 
The Circuit began offering service through the university libraries in 2001. At that time, SDPL was a founding member; however, due to financial constraints, SDPL deactivated its participation in the Circuit. Thanks to seed funding received for fiscal years 2013 and 2014 from City Council District 6, SDPL is now able to reactivate its membership.
“We are grateful to Councilmember Zapf for her commitment to the Library’s mission. Her financial support is giving patrons access to a vast array of library materials they would not otherwise be able to check out,” said Library Director, Deborah Barrow.
 
“When I heard that SDPL was not an active member of the San Diego Circuit, I knew I wanted to support it,” said District 6 Councilmember Lorie Zapf. “This is why I agreed to invest $55,000 in District 6 funds over the first two years of operation. It is a great investment in our Library users and a smart way to leverage the City’s limited resources.”
 
The loan period for San Diego Circuit books is 28 days. Circuit materials can be renewed by calling 619-236-5800 or going to a local San Diego Public Library branch. (Online renewals are not available for Circuit materials.) Only items currently showing available in the San Diego Circuit catalog can be placed on hold. A late fine of $1.00 per day is charged. A “Lost Item” charge of $100.00 will be assessed on the 16th day an item is late. This fine is consistent with those charged by other consortium members. No refunds will be given from the San Diego Public Library once payment has been received for a lost item. Unpaid fines will be referred for collection, which may result in additional charges and reporting to a credit agency.
 
To search for materials in the Library’s catalog, link to numerous resources, or find out about events at the San Diego Public Library’s Central Library and 35 branches, visit the Library online at sandiegolibrary.org.

-San Diego Public Library news release