Short-Term Changes to Library Accounts & Accessing Materials

Albin O. Kuhn Library will be switching to a new Integrated Library System (ILS) on May 23, 2024. Certain library functions will be paused from May 17 at 5 PM until May 23 at 7 AM in order to prepare.

• Why is the pause happening?

We are upgrading our library software at the end of May. The system’s data must be prepared for export and then migrated to the new software.

• Can I still check out and return things during the pause?

Yes, you will be able to check out and return library materials, although you will not see checkouts and returns reflected on your library account immediately. Late fines will not accrue during the pause, but you will still be responsible for lost items and damage fees. You must bring your campus ID to check out materials from May 17 to May 23.

• Can I still request a laptop during the pause?

No, you will not be able to request laptops during the pause. You can still check out laptops from the Circulation desk; call us at 410-455-2354 to learn what’s in stock.

• Can I check out a room key or calculator during the pause?

Yes, you will be able to borrow specialty room keys, calculators, and headphones from the Circulation desk. Please bring your UMBC card with you.

• Can I request something from another USM campus (e.g., a book from College Park) during the pause?

No, you will not be able to request books/other materials from USM campuses. Requests made through ILLiad will function as usual.

• Can I request a book or DVD from UMBC for local pickup?

No, this process will be turned off during the migration. Books and media will be available in the library’s open stacks. If you need an accommodation to retrieve materials, contact us at circdept@umbc.edu.

• I requested a book before the pause and it’s still in process. Where is it?

Please contact Circulation at circdept@umbc.edu or 410-455-2354 for updates on any in-progress hold requests.

• I returned something but it’s still on my account. Why?

Items returned between May 17 and 23 will still show on your account even if they’ve been returned. If an item is still on your account on May 28, contact us at circdept@umbc.edu.

• I’m graduating and have a question about library fines. Who do I talk to?

Please get in touch with the Circulation department at circdept@umbc.edu for time-sensitive financial matters.

• Can I still get a Special Borrower card?

No, we cannot add any Special Borrowers during the pause. Please sign up for your card before May 17 at 5 PM or wait until May 23.

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If you have a question that is not listed here, please contact us at circdept@umbc.edu or 410-455-2354.