Image of a patron walking in the VDOT Research Library.

The VDOT Research Library has implemented a new Circulation Policy for hard copy materials.

 

If you've borrowed "hard copy" materials from the VDOT Research Library's 70,000-volume collection, you may be interested to know that we are implementing a revision to our policy for checkouts and renewals. Here's a quick look at the new policy:

 

VDOT Employees & Contractors

UVA Community

General Public

Regular Collection and Reference Materials (includes Exam Materials)

6-month checkout

6-month renewal

2-month checkout

1-month renewal

No checkout allowed

Non-circulating Materials

VTRC employees only

1-month checkout

1-month renewal

No checkout allowed

 No checkout allowed


Why does the circulation policy need to be updated update?  
As the policy currently stands (for close to 20 years), there were no renewal limits for VDOT employees.  This was great in many cases, but did not provide an opportunity for the library to assess item condition, complete collection inventory, or have items readily available for other users.  It is also not unheard of for items to walk away with former VDOT employees who have separated, retired from VDOT, or have moved to a different department within the organization. 

Under the new policy, there will be a renewal limit.  This allows us to be better stewards of the materials entrusted to us.


We also currently have different rules and checkout periods for the "regular" collection, for exam materials, and for the Reference collection.  In the new iteration, the checkout policy will be the same for all of these categories.
 

When is this happening?
NOW!  Well, at least in part.  In October, we will begin to check books out according to the new policy.  For patrons who have items checked out and have multiple renewals, we will renew items through December 16, 2024, and then they will need to be returned.  In January, we will begin actively recalling overdue items and no longer honoring more than one (6-month) renewal.


What is actually changing?
Checkout will be for 6 months for all VDOT employees.  Need it for longer? You will be able to renew the item for another 6 months if needed!  UVA affiliates are the exception. They will have a 2-month initial checkout and 1-month renewal.  If items are not returned within 30 days of due date, your library account will be temporarily suspended until the items are returned.


Will this affect Interlibrary Loans or E-book checkouts?
Nope! Interlibrary loans and e-book access will remain the same.


I have a special situation and need an exception to these policies.  What should I do?
We understand things come up! Contact a member of library staff and we will assess your situation on a case-by-case basis.  
 

Questions? Concerns? Please let us know!


Amy Skretta
(434) 293-1959
VDOT Research Library