How Can Alumni Use Ross Library Lock Haven Resources?

Okay, quick tip list for alumni who want to use Ross Library at Lock Haven — I throw these out from the perspective of someone who pops back every few years.

Get an alumni card/registration so you can borrow and use library computers. Check the catalog online first, then place holds or request items via interlibrary loan if Lock Haven doesn’t own them. For journals and database access, expect limits: some content might be available only on campus, but you can often request article scans. If you need local history or university archives, ask for an appointment — archivists will pull folders and help you handle fragile material. Use study rooms for meetings and RSVP if the library requires it. Small fees might apply for copies or reproductions, so budget for that. Finally, email the reference desk with a snapshot of your project and they’ll usually point you to the fastest solution — I’ve always found a short conversation saves a lot of wandering around.

Honestly, alumni have a surprisingly rich set of options at Ross Library if you take a little time to explore — I learned that the hard way when I stopped by between jobs and ended up discovering stacks I’d never seen before.

Start by checking the library’s alumni services page or calling the front desk. Usually you’ll register for an alumni library card (bring a photo ID and alumni/parking card if you have one), which unlocks on-site borrowing, computer access, and the ability to request scans or check out equipment. For me the golden trick was asking about electronic access: some databases are available remotely through an alumni login or proxy service, but many licensed resources require you to be on campus or use a public workstation. If you need journal articles, try the interlibrary loan/document delivery option — I once had a hard-to-find article scanned and emailed to me in a couple of days.

Don’t forget special collections and archives. Ross Library’s local history materials and university records are real treasures; they often require an appointment but staff are super helpful about pulling boxes and describing what’s there. I’ve used those collections for small projects and they’ll help with reproductions for a fee. Finally, take advantage of study rooms, workshops, and any alumni lectures — it’s not just books. If you’re unsure where to begin, email the reference desk with a quick description of your project and they’ll point you toward the best path forward.

If you’re coming back for research, here’s a compact game plan that’s worked for me: figure out what you need, contact the library, and clarify what can be done remotely versus onsite.

First: identify key resources (books, theses, articles, archival items). Use Ross Library’s online catalog to place holds or see call numbers — that tells you whether something is available for checkout or inspection. For scholarly articles behind paywalls, ask about interlibrary loan or article scans; many libraries will provide a PDF delivery for alumni. If you need specialized help, schedule a research consultation. I once had a tight deadline for a paper and a quick 30-minute chat with a librarian produced a stack of targeted search terms and database tips that saved hours.

Practical notes: alumni borrowing limits and loan periods differ from current students — renewals and fines policies are worth confirming. If you plan to access databases, check whether Ross Library provides alumni remote authentication; otherwise plan a campus visit or use public terminals. Also inquire about room reservations, laptop/charger loans, and digitization services for fragile items. It’s efficient to email or phone ahead so staff can prepare materials and avoid wasted trips.