UW Libraries COVID-19 Updates
UW Bothell and UW Tacoma Libraries may have different reopening plans based on individual campus readiness.
Check campus library websites for the most accurate information.
Coronavirus testing in Odegaard Library: UW students, faculty and staff participants of the Husky Coronavirus Testing Program can get tested on the ground floor of Odegaard Library building near the By George Cafe, by appointment only.
Available services and support are outlined and updated routinely on this page.
STATUS: UW Libraries spaces are closed to the public at this time.
- All UW campuses are in Phase 2 of the State's Healthy Washington Plan.
- While Libraries may be eligible to expand services in Phase 2 and subsequent phases, changes to operations will likely not take effect immediately upon a transition to each new phase, pending implementation of required health and safety protocols.
- See the Libraries Phased Re-opening Chart - updated 2/4
When will Libraries open again?
- Individual Study Space @ Research Commons - Coming Soon!
- The Libraries plans to open its first space for individual study in the Research Commons on the ground floor of Allen South on the Seattle Campus.
- The space will open when preparations for COVID compliance are complete, no later than the start of spring quarter (March 29). For detailed information, please read the Individual Study Space @Research Commons FAQ.
- This space is intended to provide a clean, safe and quiet space for individual study with access to WIFI and equitable access through the LibSeats reservation system. Once the online reservation system is active, a link will be provided.
- The libraries at UW Bothell and Tacoma are developing localized plans in coordination with campus administration.
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When Libraries do open, adherence to all current COVID-19 public health and safety mandates will be required in all spaces.
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The health and safety of our users and staff continue to guide our planning. As health conditions and guidance change, we will expand access and services as soon as it is feasible to do so safely.
What is available?
- NO CONTACT PICK-UP SERVICE is available! You can request and pick up items at each campus.
- Online help:
- Libraries staff are available 24/7 to help you find available resources, assist with research and answer questions. Just ASK US.
- Virtual consultations and "drop-in" help hours are available for writing and research, digital media tools/software, publishing and more. Learn more.
- Interlibrary Loan continues to fill requests for articles and book chapters. Any requests that cannot be filled with electronic resources will be requested from other libraries - this includes scans, but not physical materials at this time.
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Access to e-resources: UW Libraries provides a wide range of e-resources including temporary access to over 1 million additional electronic books and resources through our HathiTrust partnership. This Welcome Video from UW Libraries shows you how to access all of the resources available to you right now.
- See also Books, Textbooks, E-Resources in the Student FAQ.
- Libraries workshops and events!
Helpful Links:
- Libraries Monthly Update - (updated 2/4)
- Libraries Phased Re-opening Chart
- Student FAQ 2021
- Faculty Guidance 2021
Returning and Renewing items:
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Due dates: Due dates have been extended where possible. Exceptions include Summit, Interlibrary Loan and recalled items. Overdue fines accrued between March 6, 2020 and the day the Libraries re-open will be cancelled. Fines accrued before March 6, 2020 can be paid online. Questions? Email suzzcirc@uw.edu.
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Returning items: some book returns are open. Please return items if you are able to so that others can access materials.
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Fines: Overdue fines accrued between March 6, 2020 and the day the Libraries re-open will be cancelled. Fines accrued before March 6 can be paid online.
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Renewing books: See instructions on how to renew online.
NOTE: Graduating students retain off-campus access to online library collections and databases using Husky OnNet or the off-campus proxy until library privileges expire during Winter 2021.
Libraries Status
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Interlibrary Loan (ILL) | ![]() |
Summit Borrowing | ![]() |
Seattle Libraries Buildings | ![]() |