Skip to Main Content
- How do I borrow a book from the library?
First time borrowers may need to:
- confirm existing Library system information
- provide proof of school registration
- provide student identification number (or "C" number).
- How many books may I borrow at one time? How long can I keep a book?
Up to 5 books can be checked out at any one time. Books are checked out for 2 weeks at a time. A book may be renewed unless another patron has placed a hold on it. Books may not be checked out over semester breaks unless you are registered for classes for the following semester.
- Can I return books to any Ivy Tech Library?
All items must be returned to either the South Bend or Elkhart library.
- How do I renew a book?
Books may be renewed in one of 3 ways:
- Visit the library in person.
- Call your campus library:
- South Bend library (574-289-7001 x5343)
- Elkhart library (574-380-0375 x4407)
- Go to the South Bend-Elkhart Library website and follow these directions:
- Click on IvyCat located under the Discover! search.
- Click on the "My Account" link at the top of the screen
- Sign in using your Ivy Tech or Community Login
- Click on the "My Account" link at the top of the screen
- Click on the Checkouts tab to view a list of currently borrowed items
- Click on the check box next to the item(s) to be renewed or Select All. Click on the "Renew" button.
- On the "Renewal Confirmation" box click on the "Yes" button to confirm the renewal of the selected items
- A new due date will appear to the right of each renewed title.
- If any items are not renewable, your renewal limit has been reached. Please return the book to the library.
- Are there fines for overdue, damaged, or lost books?
A book that is 15 – 28 days overdue will have a $3.00 fine assessed. Books that are returned 29 or more days late are considered lost and will each incur a $5.00 overdue fine. If a book is lost or heavily damaged, you will be charged the replacement cost of the book. If the book is no longer available for replacement purchase, the minimum charge is $45.00. Fines and/or fees are paid at the Bursar’s Office. PLEASE NOTE: If you fail to pay your fines and/or fees, your borrowing privileges will be suspended and you will not be able to register for classes, or graduate, until your account is paid-in-full.
- Can I check out DVDs or magazines?
DVDs may be checked out. Magazines and journals may be checked out for three (3) days if the issues are not the most current.
- If you don't have the book I need, can you get it?
Books and journal articles not available in our library may be requested from other libraries through Interlibrary Loan. The delivery time varies and could take between a few days to 2 weeks. Please use the Ivy Tech Interlibrary Loan Request Form or contact library staff for this service.
