The Styberg Library has a variety of policies about our resources and services. Consult the options below to learn more about these. Let us know if you have any questions.
Archives & Special Collections Policies
Updated: July 2022
I. Archives
A. Mission
The mission of the Archives Collection is to identify, acquire, organize, preserve, and make accessible records and papers of enduring value in accordance with the mission of the library.
B. Description
The Styberg Library is the designated repository for the records of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary – including Garrett Biblical Institute, Evangelical Theological Seminary, and Chicago Training School – and the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church. Its major collections include the Seminary archives, personal papers and sermons, records of organizations, and non-textual materials related to the history of the Seminary.
C. Collecting Policy
1. Official Seminary Archives
a) The library holds the bulk of the official records of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary as well as Garrett Biblical Institute/Garrett Theological Seminary, Evangelical Theological Seminary, and Chicago Training School which were merged into Garrett-Evangelical.
b) The library also collects the Seminary’s unofficial records including newsletters, magazines, reports, program brochures, directories, bulletins, and catalogs, as well as audiovisual materials such as photographs, audiotapes, and video recordings.
2. Personal Papers
a) The library collects the papers and manuscripts of Seminary faculty members and United Methodist bishops and ministers.
b) The papers of other individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to the Seminary, United Methodism, or to the field of religion in general are accepted on an individual basis.
c) Items of historical interest may include:
(1) Biographical information: CVs, memoirs, bibliographies, and genealogies
(2) Professional correspondence, both incoming and outgoing
(3) Teaching materials: class notes, syllabi, reading lists, course outlines, examinations, and correspondence with students
(4) Manuscripts for sermons and public lectures
(5) Non-textual materials: photographs, films, and audio and video recordings
3. Institutional and Congregational Records of the United Methodist Church Northern Illinois Conference in collaboration with the United Methodist Church Northern Illinois Conference
In collaboration with the United Methodist Church Northern Illinois Conference, the library houses the historical records of closed churches as well as the institutional records of the Northern Illinois Conference.
II. Special Collections
A. Mission
The mission of Special Collections is to curate, preserve, and provide access to items of unique historical value in physical and/or digital form for use in research, teaching, and learning. In this way, the library facilitates the creation of new scholarship.
B. Description
The Styberg Library’s Special Collections contain books printed prior to 1800 and works of historical significance. They also contain materials about John and Charles Wesley and the early history of Methodism, some archaeological items excavated by the Egypt Exploration Fund in the 1920s, and rare Bibles including first editions.
C. Collecting Policy
Although considerable retrospective and rare book titles were purchased between 1964 and 2003, current funding for materials no longer makes new acquisitions possible. Additions to the collection are made very occasionally by the receipt of gifts.
III. Donations of Materials to Archives & Special Collections
Additions to the Special Collections and Archives come through many avenues, including through donations by faculty, students, alumni, and community members, or by transfer from seminary departments. The library retains the right to decline donations due to space limitations or Collection Development Policies in place. Rare exceptions to these policies may be made at the discretion of the Library Director.
IV. Rules for Use of Archives and/or Special Collections
A. Access
1. Hours
Materials from Special Collections and Archives are available from Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except holidays observed by the seminary.
2. Requesting Access
a) Complete a Research Application Form
Researchers using the Archives and/or Special Collections must complete and sign a Research Application form and provide acceptable identification (e.g., driver’s license or photo ID card).
b) Make an Appointment
Approved researchers must make appointments for visits as far in advance as possible to assure availability of study space and time for staff to prepare materials for use. Please email or call (847) 866-3909 to schedule an appointment
c) Request Retrieval of Materials
All archival materials and rare books are housed in closed stacks. Researchers may request specific items to be retrieved by library staff. The librarian will bring the material to the researcher. No material will be pulled after 3:45 p.m. Forms are available at the Circulation Desk as well as online.
(1) Researchers using the Archives must complete an Archives Request Form.
(2) Researchers using Special Collections should fill out a Special Collections Request Form for each item requested including call number, author, and title.
B. Research Assistance
Librarians are available for consultation and assistance in-person, by phone, or email. Please visit the Research Support page for details.
C. Restrictions
The Styberg Library makes every effort to provide access to its Special Collections and Archives by approved researchers. Access to materials may be restricted based on item condition, donor specifications, or protection of confidentiality. As a privately held collection, the library reserves the right to deny access at its own discretion.
D. Handling of Materials
1. All materials must be consulted in designated reading areas only and may not be taken to other areas of the library. A library staff member will be present with the researcher in the reading area the entire time the materials are in use.
2. Bags and coats must be deposited at the circulation desk until archives/special collections items are returned. Only writing supplies (a pencil, an eraser, and a notebook) and a laptop will be allowed in the reading area. The use of ink is prohibited.
3. No food or beverages are permitted when consulting archival materials and rare books.
4 The researcher is responsible for carefully handling all materials made available. Materials are to be maintained in the order in which they are received. Do not rearrange materials.
5. All materials must be returned to the library staff by 4:00 p.m. or before the researcher leaves the library.
6. The library reserves the right to inspect all research materials and personal articles before a researcher leaves the building.
E. Reproducing Materials for Research Use
Requests for duplicating materials require the approval of library staff, who will consider the condition of materials as well as other issues (e.g., donor agreements or copyright law) and will duplicate the materials for researchers if requested. By permission, researchers may also be able to use their personal devices (e.g., phone or camera) without flash to make digital copies for personal research purposes. Requests for reproduction should be made before 3:00 p.m. using the Photocopy / Digital Copy Request Form.
**Photographing, video recording, or using other means of reproduction of the mummified remains are not permitted without the express permission of the Library Director.**
F. Permission to Publish
According to the Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, USC), researchers need to make sure to obtain from the copyright holder the permission to publish from or to quote from previously unpublished manuscripts or from published items. For original archival materials and some special collection materials (e.g., early Methodist materials), researchers should also contact the library to acquire permission and to inquire about other copyright issues.
G. Citations
When citing materials from the Archives, the form should be as follows: [Identification of the item and the title of the collection], Archives, Styberg Library, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Evanston, Illinois, USA
I. Borrowing Policies for Circulating Physical Collections
Library borrowing accounts entitle patrons to borrow circulating materials from The Styberg Library physical collection. This includes print books, DVDs, CDs, and other physical materials.
A. Eligibility for Free Borrowing Privileges
1. Current staff, faculty, and students of:
a) Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
b) Bexley Seabury Seminary
c) Northwestern University
2. Family members of Garrett & Bexley Seabury students, staff, and faculty:
a) Styberg Family Cards can be issued Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm, at the circulation desk.
b) Verification of relationship to a current student, staff, or faculty member, as well as a current photo ID and proof of address must be presented.
c) Styberg Family Card borrowing privileges extend only to Styberg Library materials. Interlibrary Loan services, access to electronic databases, and materials owned by the Northwestern libraries are not included.
d) Only one Styberg Family Card will be issued per family.
e) Styberg Family Cards are valid for one year but may be renewed so long as the spouse/partner/parent is associated with Garrett or Bexley Seabury.
3. Alumni/ae of Garrett-Evangelical Theological and Bexley Seabury seminaries
4. Current students, faculty, and staff at Association of Chicago Theological Schools (ACTS) institutions.
5. Current students, faculty, and staff of other Atla member institutions. Click here for more information, including a full list of participating institutions.
6. Visiting Scholars who have made prior arrangements with the President’s Office.
7. United Methodist and Episcopal Clergy.
8. All clergy living or working in Evanston, regardless of religious affiliation.
B. Purchasing a Borrower’s Card for Those Not Included in the Above Categories.
A Styberg Library public borrower’s card may be purchased for an annual fee of $75. Please note that this card provides borrowing privileges to the Styberg Library physical collection only, and not to the collections of the Northwestern University Libraries. Those wishing to obtain borrowing privileges at Northwestern University must apply to their circulation services department. Access to our electronic collections and Interlibrary Loan are also excluded.
II. Access Policies for Electronic Collections
A. Eligibility
1. Access to licensed electronic resources is limited to current students, faculty, and staff of Garrett.
2. Students, faculty, and staff of Bexley Seabury should request access through their home institution.
B. Access information
1. Styberg-owned materials
Garrett email and password
2. Northwestern University-owned materials
NetID and password
Building and Study Space Use Policies
Updated August 2022
The Styberg Library is committed to creating a library environment where all patrons feel welcome and comfortable. Please treat our library and its resources, as well as your fellow patrons, with respect and kindness.
I. Building Use
Unless prior arrangements have been made, visitors are restricted to using the library during library open hours only.
A. General Use and Conduct
1. Food and Drink
Food and drinks may be consumed in the library. Please dispose of containers in the proper receptacles and wipe up any spills immediately. Drinks should be in covered containers. Food and drink should not be taken into the stacks and should be kept away from library materials. Please be responsible and respectful of others and library materials.
2. Alcoholic Beverages
Possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in The Styberg Library.
3. Noise and Disorderly Conduct
Noise should be kept to a minimum, and quietness must be maintained in the Methodist Room at all times. Excessively loud conversations and harassment of library patrons and staff are prohibited.
4. Cell Phone and Electronic Devices
Cell phones may be used in non-quiet areas of the library, provided their use does not disturb other patrons. MP3 players, radios, CD players, computers, games, and the like may be used with headphones, and the sound must be kept low enough so as not to disturb other patrons. Please use discretion and be mindful of other patrons while using phones and other electronic devices.
5. Bicycles, Skates, Skateboards, and Scooters
Bicycles are prohibited in the library. Skates, skateboards, and scooters may be carried into the library and are not to be used while in the building.
6. Animals
Only trained service animals are allowed in the library.
7. Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in the library building.
8. Photography
Arrangements must be made in advance with the Library Director for any photo or video shoots in the library building. Photographing, videorecording, or using other means of reproduction of the human remains in the display case within the Reference Room is not permitted without the permission of the Library Director.
9. Solicitation
Soliciting for donations, sale of items, or approaching patrons for the purpose of obtaining signatures on petitions is not allowed.
10. Harassment
Harassment (verbal, physical, or sexual) is against the law, and any patron who is harassing other patrons or library staff will be asked to leave the library and reported to the police.
11. Vandalism/Destruction of Library Property
Graffiti as well as destruction of library furniture, equipment, and materials are forbidden, and all incidents of this nature will be reported to the police.
12. Theft
It is against the law to steal library materials including books, CDs, DVDs, and furnishings. All incidents of theft will be reported to the police.
13. Other Policies
All other policies of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, including those not listed here, are enforced. The violation of any of these policies will be dealt with through administrative channels, and the right to use the library may be revoked.
II. Access to Library Spaces
A. Reserving library rooms (for a short period)
1. Eligible rooms
a) Group Study Room
b) Ott Lounge
2. Making a reservation:
a) Check availability
i. View Group Study Room Calendar
b) Fill out request form
i. Library Room Reservation Request Form
3. Requests must be placed 48 hrs in advance
B. Applying to PhD Study Suite
1. Eligibility
Garrett students currently enrolled in the PhD program
2. Application process
a) Registrar e-mails application forms and information to current PhD Students in Mid-August.
b) Assignments will be sent out on the Friday before the start of fall semester
c) Assignments are for 1 year (early September – late August, or by the graduation date).
3. Policies for the Use of the PhD Study Suite
a) Desks will be assigned to individual students for the entire academic year unless they graduate or withdraw from the program. Students who are writing dissertations or taking comprehensive exams will be given priority. A few desks will remain unassigned and can be reserved daily on a first come/first served basis. Stop by the Circulation Desk for daily sign up.
b) Students can leave books that they have checked out on their assigned desks. Materials that have not been checked out will be removed if found during regular checks. If a student repeatedly keeps books that are not checked out on their desk, the privilege to use the Suite may be revoked.
c) The study suite is kept locked all the time. Students with assigned desks will be issued a personal key, which should be returned when the assignment period ends. Those who use unassigned desks can check out a key at the Circulation Desk. For a lost key, the replacement fee of $10.00 will be charged.
d) Access to the study suite is during the library’s open hours only.
e) Only individuals with assigned desks are allowed in the study suite. Personnel from the Office of Student Affairs, Office of Academic Affairs, PhD Studies Program, and President’s Office have the library director’s permission to access the room when necessary.
f) Space is to be quiet. Headphones must be used when listening to music or other audio. Conversations must be kept to a minimum.
g) Wireless Internet access is available in the study suite.
h) No furniture or equipment is to be moved from or brought into the Suite except by arrangement with the Circulation Desk.
i) Damage to furniture or equipment should be reported immediately to the Circulation Desk.
j) The library takes no responsibility for personal items left on desks or anywhere else in the study suite.
k) All other library policies apply.
For questions, contact styberg.library@garrett.edu
III. Library Displays
A. Purpose
The display cases in the Styberg Library are used primarily to encourage the services of the library, and to showcase items of note in the collection. Displays are designed to inform patrons of the library collections, services, and events, and to promote library use by students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the local community. They may also seek to strengthen connections between the library and the seminary, and to connect the seminary community to larger issues facing the world.
B. Selection and Duration
Library staff members select the themes, objects, and duration of exhibits. Patrons are encouraged to submit suggestions for displays, which will be given serious consideration by the library staff, though no guarantee is made as to their use. If you have concerns about objects on display, please email the Library Director.
C. Community Posting Table
1. The community posting table is open to organizations engaged in educational, cultural, or charitable activities.
2. Notices may only be posted on the designated Community Posting Table. Notices cannot be mounted to walls, doors, windows, or other surfaces.
3. Community members who would like to post materials should first get approval from the Circulation and Access Services Manager. Unapproved materials will be removed from the table.
4. Commercial materials or materials resulting in personal gain are not permitted.
5. Postings must fit with the size constraints of the table. Very large posters may be rejected because of space limitations.
6. The Styberg Library staff will remove outdated material and are not responsible for saving notices, or for materials damaged or stolen.
7. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
8. The Styberg Library reserves the right to remove any posted item.
9. The Styberg Library does not advocate or endorse the viewpoints of exhibits or exhibitors.
10. If you have questions about the Community Posting Table policy, contact the library at 847-866¬3909 or styberg.library@garrett.edu.
IV. Special Events
1. Requests for special events to be held in The Styberg Library can be placed by emailing styberg.library@garrett.edu and must be approved by the Library Director.
2. This service is limited to Garrett and Bexley Seabury communities.
Circulation Policies
Updated August 2022
I. Loan Period and Renewals
The Styberg Library’s loan periods are based on our user groups and the type of item loaned.
A. General loan periods
1. Garrett, Bexley Seabury, and Northwestern Students
a) Loan Period: 16 Weeks (112 Days)
b) Renewals: 3 (365 Days total)
c) Max number of items: 250
2. Garrett, Bexley Seabury, and Northwestern Staff
a) Loan Period: 16 Weeks (112 Days)
b) Renewals: 3 (365 Days total)
c) Max number of items: 250
3. Garrett, Bexley Seabury, and Northwestern Doctoral Students
a) Loan Period: All items due 5/31
b) Renewals: Unlimited
c) Max number of items: 600
4. Garrett, Bexley Seabury, and Northwestern Faculty
a) Loan Period: All items due 5/31
b) Renewals: Unlimited
c) Max number of items: 600
5. Community Borrowers
(Alumni, ACTS, Atla, Local Clergy, Styberg Family, Local Borrower cardholders)
a) Loan Period: 4 weeks (28 days)
b) Renewals: 3 (84 days)
c) Max number of items: 50
B. Special Item Loan Periods
1. Reserves
a) Loan Period: 2 Hours
b) Notes:
2. DVDs & CDs
Loan Period: 7 Days
3. Laptops and other equipment*
a) Loan Period: 3 Hours
b) Note:
In-building use only
*For a full list of library equipment and other special items, please visit our Additional Library Items guide.
Note: It is advisable to return items before leaving campus and/or going overseas for extended periods of time. If you plan to take library items overseas, we also advise that you contact styberg.library@garrett.edu.
C. Recalls
In order to ensure equitable access to library materials, an item may be recalled if it is needed by another user or by the library.
1. All loaned items are subject to recall and must be returned within seven (7) days of the date of recall.
2. An email notice advising of the recall and showing the new due date is sent at the time the recall is placed.
3. Recalled items cannot be renewed.
4. If an item is not returned by the 7th day, an overdue fine of $1.00 per day will be assessed, up to $30.00.
5. A patron with an overdue recalled item will be blocked from borrowing other items from the library.
6. Patrons are responsible for the timely return of recalled items at all times of the year, including holidays and intercessions.
7. If you have difficulty complying with the recall request, please contact styberg.library@garrett.edu immediately.
D. Notices
It is the borrower’s responsibility to keep track of due dates and manage their account. To learn how to log in and manage your account, please visit our USearch Help page.
1. Item due notice: Emailed on the day the item is due.
2. Overdue notice: Emailed one week after the due date has passed indicating what charges will be assessed should the item not be returned.
3. Fine notice: Emailed on the 30th day after due date and includes the amount due for replacing and processing the lost item(s).
4. If you are not receiving notices, please contact the Circulation Desk at 847-866-3909 or styberg.library@garrett.edu to verify your e-mail address.
II. Fines
The Styberg Library does not charge daily overdue fines for most circulating items except for overdue recalled items and short-term loan items.
A. Recalled Items
$1.00 per day
B. Items on Reserve
1. 2-hour items: $1.00 per hour
2. 1-day items: $5.00 per day
C. Laptops, charger cords, and other equipment
$1.00 per hour
D. Lost Status Items
Items that are not returned or renewed within 30 days after their due date are automatically marked with a “Lost Status” by the library circulation management system.
1. A replacement fee (minimum $125) and a non-refundable $10.00 processing fee will be automatically assessed for every book overdue by 30 days or more.
2. Replacement and processing fees will be waived for lost books returned within a reasonable timeframe.
3. Patrons who have lost an item are strongly encouraged to contact styberg.library@garrett.edu to discuss options to provide a replacement copy of a lost item, and thereby avoid paying the full lost item replacement fee.
E. Damaged Items
If an item is returned damaged, the following fines and fees will apply as determined by Library Staff:
1. Mild Damage
A $10.00 fee will be assessed for mild damage, such as minor pencil marks, dog eared pages and post-it notes.
2. Moderate Damage
A $20.00 fee will be assessed for moderate damage, such as marking in pen or highlighter.
3. Minor Water Damage
If water damage is confined to the cover and only the edges of the text block or the fly leaves, the item will be sent to the bindery. A $30 fee will be assessed ($20 for binding or repair and $10 for processing).
4. Severe Damage
A replacement fee of a minimum of $125.00 (or the actual replacement of the book) plus a $10 processing fee will be assessed for damage that renders the book unusable. This includes torn or missing pages, excessive water damage, active mold or mildew, and excessive marks made by pencil, pen, or highlighter.
F. Payment of fines and fees
Payments accepted
1. Cash
2. Check
3. Credit Card
4. Student Account (Garrett only)
Fines and fees are payable Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm at the circulation desk. Please contact The Styberg Library by phone (847-866-3909) or email styberg.library@garrett.edu to make arrangements to pay by credit card or student account.
III. Library Account Restrictions
A. Account blocks
Patrons will have their borrowing privileges blocked and will not be able to check out or renew any more items if they have any of the following:
1. Overdue recalled items
2. Fines in excess of $100.00
3. Maximum number of items checked out (See Section I for maximum number)
Information about why the account is blocked is available in the My Account section of the USearch Help page. Patrons may also phone the circulation desk at 847-866-3909 or email styberg.library@garrett.edu to get information about the status of their account.
B. Deactivated accounts
1. Students on leave
2. All checked out library items should be returned immediately
3. Accounts will be reactivated when a student re-registers
C. Closed accounts
1. Student withdrawal from program or transfer to another institution
2. All checked out library items should be returned immediately
D. Graduating students
1. All checked out library items should be returned before 5/31
2. All graduates are eligible for an Alumni Borrowing Card. Please visit the Alum Resources page for more information.
IV. Account Holds
Unpaid bills and fines are reported to the Student Accounts Office at least twice a year and will result in a hold on the student’s account, which may impact registration and/or graduation.
A. Holds will be placed on accounts if fines are equal to or exceed
1. Returning students: $10.00
2. Graduating Students: $1.00
V. Making requests for materials
A. Materials from Northwestern University Libraries
1. Eligibility
a) Garrett and Bexley Seabury students, faculty, and staff.
b) Items owned by Northwestern can be requested: Click here to watch a video on how to place a request for Northwestern materials
c) Items can be delivered to The Styberg Library for pickup.
d) Items can also be returned at The Styberg Library
Note: Patrons should contact circulation@northwestern.edu to address or resolve any questions surrounding fees for Northwestern library materials.
B. Items checked out to another patron
1. Interlibrary Loan
Although we can recall an item that is out on loan, we encourage patrons to request materials from another library via Interlibrary Loan. ILL materials often arrive at the Styberg Library in less than a week, while recalling an item from another patron may take a week or more.
2. Recall
After a book has been in circulation two weeks, it may be recalled for use by another borrower or for use by the library for course reserves. Library Staff can assist with your recall request at the Circulation Desk (847-866-3909), or you can email.
C. Curbside Pickup
1. Eligibility
a) Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary faculty, students, and staff who have health and safety concerns or cannot visit during open hours.
b) *This service should not be requested for your own convenience
2. Submit Curbside Pickup requests using the Curbside Pickup Request Form.
3. All requests made by 3:00pm will be filled the same day and can be picked up anytime for the next 48 hours. Books that are not picked up within the 48 hours will be returned to the stacks.
4. Requests made after 3:00pm will be filled the next weekday.
5. If you would like to use this service, please follow these Curbside Pickup Instructions.
D. Scanning
Students are always encouraged to enter the Library during open hours to use the library Scanner.
1. Eligibility
a) Garrett and Bexley Seabury faculty and staff
b) Garrett and Bexley Seabury students who are:
i. Online Students
ii. Distance Learners who live more than 50 miles away from the Seminary
iii. Concerned about their health and safety
iv. Cannot visit during open hours
v. *This service should not be requested for your own convenience
2. Submit scan requests using the Scan Request Form.
3. Limit to one request per form.
4. We will only be able to scan items that are physically available in the library, which includes course reserves.
5. Provide as much information as possible so that we can quickly and accurately find what you need. Priority will be given to scans that are needed for current courses.
6. Scans will be sent within 48 hours of request (weekends excluded)
7. Scans will be emailed as a .pdf attachment
8. Please note, we cannot scan entire books, as this would be a violation of copyright. For more information, see the Copyright Checklist.
9. Notice Warning Concerning Copyright Restrictions
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.
E. Mailing
1. Eligibility
Garrett and Bexley Seabury students who are:
a) Online Students
b) Distance Learners who live more than 50 miles away from the Seminary
2. Books are mailed via Library Mail
3. We ask that you return them when you come to campus or via mail with a tracking number.
4. If an item is recalled, it must be returned immediately.
5. Patron is responsible for return postage and tracking.
6. If returned items are lost in the mail and tracking is not provided, patron will be responsible for replacement costs (see page 3 for more information).
VI. Technology/Equipment
A. Papercut Account Policies
1. Account Eligibility
Existing patrons with borrowing privileges
2. Free Accounts (covered in tuition costs)
Garrett and Bexley Seabury students, faculty, and staff
3. Paid Accounts
a) Northwestern students, faculty, and staff
b) Alumni Borrowers
c) ACTS Borrowers
d) Local Borrowers
e) Visitors
i. Pay $5.00 for a guest account and card/microchip
ii. Unused balances will be refunded when the card is returned.
4. Releasing Print Jobs
a) Microchip
i. Comes with account setup. (See above for pricing)
ii. Should be placed on the back of ID cards (over the small magnetic stripe)
iii. The chip may be placed on another piece of personal property at the patron’s own risk.
iv. $5.00 replacement cost if lost
b) Username & Password
i. Needed to send print jobs to the printer
ii. Pay directly at the printer in the absence of the microchip
iii. Login online to manage your account, track usage, display available funds and environmental impact information
iv. See a circulation desk worker to reset
5. Funds on Account
a) Patrons must add funds to their accounts in order to make copies or to print
b) Payments must be made by cash or check at the circulation desk
c) Upon separation from the institution, either by graduation or for other reasons, a patron may request in person at the circulation desk a refund of the funds remaining on their PaperCut account. All requests for refunds by graduating students must be made by May 31st of the year of graduation. All others must request a refund within 30 days of the date of separation.
B. Printing and Copying
Printers and photocopiers are available in the library for the use of all patrons at the cost of:
1. $0.07/page for black & white
2. $0.10 for double-sided black & white
3. $0.30/page for color.
The Styberg Library cannot accept credit cards for printing or copying. All patrons are expected to adhere to copyright law when photocopying materials. The Styberg Library is not responsible for improperly copied or printed pages or funds lost due to machine malfunction.
C. Public Computers and Scanners
1. Computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis (no reservations).
2. In accordance with the Library’s mission, computers and scanners are provided for the purpose of research and other educational endeavors. The Library reserves the right to require computer users engaged in inappropriate activities to cease doing so.
3. The Library also reserves the right to permanently ban any public patron from the library and to refuse access to computers and scanners. Public patrons who are discovered using library equipment to visit adult websites will be banned from the library. Disruptive individuals or groups will be asked to leave. Other rule infractions may also result in being asked to leave.
4. Privacy Notice: The Styberg Library is not responsible for loss of items due to computer malfunction.
Collection Development & Access Policies
Revised December 2015; Updated August 2017; Updated June 2022
I. Mission Statement
The Styberg Library advances the educational mission of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary by expanding access, enhancing the teaching and learning process, empowering research, and facilitating collaboration. The Library serves Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Bexley Seabury Seminary, Northwestern University, and the wider communities of students, pastors, and scholars.
II. Purpose and Goals of the Collection Development and Access Policies
The purpose of the collection development and access policies is to document the guidelines by which the collections of the Styberg Library are selected, acquired, and managed. The goal of this statement is to ensure that the library’s collection development activities are congruent with the Seminary’s educational mission, planning, and academic function. It also aims to inform the faculty, students, administrators, Board of Trustees, and others who use the library about what is collected and at what levels to support research and instruction.
III. Background
Established in 1981 under the name of The United Library when the collections of both Garrett- Evangelical and Seabury-Western (now renamed as Bexley Seabury) Theological Seminaries merged, the library was renamed the Styberg Library on May 11, 2017, in recognition of the contributions of Ernest and Bernice Styberg to the seminary. The Styberg Library continues to be an active and supportive partner in the promotion of academic learning and research.
IV. Library Collections and Access
The library is considered as one of the top theological research libraries in the United States. Today the Styberg Library contains nearly 350,000 volumes, 200 periodical subscriptions, and audio-visual media in addition to a wide array of electronic and digital resources. Collection distinctives include rare book collections from Methodist and Anglican traditions, ancient Near Eastern studies, and biblical archeology; special Keen Bible collections with several outstanding first editions; and manuscript and archival collections including Garrett- Evangelical institutional records, personal papers, and church archives of the United Methodist Church Northern Illinois Conference. Digital collections include the Georgia Harkness Papers, the Lucy Rider Meyer Papers, the Chicago Training School Archives, and Methodist Manuscripts.
For access to materials beyond the scope of its own collection, the Styberg Library seeks partnerships with other institutions. The Styberg Library and Northwestern University Library share seamless borrowing privileges and a single public catalog which provides access to the physical and electronic collections of both libraries. The Styberg Library is a member of the Association of Chicago Theological Schools (ACTS) which was founded in 1984, and currently comprises twelve area theological schools. Membership in the ACTS makes available some denominational materials collected by these institutions that would not otherwise be accessible by the Styberg Library community. It is also a member of the Consortium of Academic and Research Libraries in Illinois (CARLI), which provides access to the collections of 128 academic libraries in Illinois through Interlibrary Loan. The Styberg Library is also a member of Atla, a membership association of librarians and information professionals, and a producer of research tools, committed to advancing the study of religion and theology. It includes more than 800 libraries from diverse religious traditions and backgrounds.
The Styberg Library also provides access to resources through the creation of Research Guides and tutorials as well as services such as orientation sessions, classroom instruction, scanning, curbside pickup, and mailing.
V. General Collection Guidelines
A. Responsibility for Collection Development
The selection process is a cooperative and interactive effort between the Library Director, library staff, and faculty members. The Librarian has the primary and ultimate responsibility for building and maintaining the library’s collections and bears particular responsibility to balance acquisitions so that the collection grows in all relevant subject areas. All selections are made in light of the selection guidelines and the collection development policy.
B. Selection Process
C. Selection Criteria
In general, the following factors are considered in the decision to purchase a library resource:
D. Reference Collection
The reference collection is developed by the Library Director in consultation with the Research, Instruction, & Digital Services Librarian. Other library staff are highly encouraged to give their input. Some general criteria to be considered in the selection of new reference materials are:
E. Electronic/Digital Resources
Increasingly, the library acquires electronic and other non-print resources to support instruction and research, especially as an aid to online and distance learning. Electronic resources include bibliographic materials and full-text files in a variety of formats, including licensed materials (for example, databases, e-journals, e-books, etc.). The library is curating its own collection of e-books, mostly of course textbooks, as well as providing access to a wide array of electronic resources through the partnership with Northwestern University Library (NUL). This includes access to databases and e-journals acquired through a cost-sharing arrangement with NUL. The type of access purchased (one user, three simultaneous users, unlimited users) is based on user needs and class size.
F. Non-Print Materials
The library also acquires other non-book materials, such as DVDs and CDs to support instruction, either by faculty request or by library staff recommendation. However, the subscription to video streaming services is now preferred over the purchase of physical items. Streaming services are purchased on demand using a subscription-based model (usually one year) depending on course need.
G. Serials and Periodicals
The library maintains a strong collection of current periodicals and serials. It collects major scholarly journals in theology and biblical studies as well as conference journals of the Methodist Church and Episcopal Church. The responsibility for periodical and serial selection rests with the Library Director who weighs each potential addition or cancellation carefully, taking into account requests from faculty and students, current trends in the subject field, and financial considerations.
In addition to the general selection criteria listed above, the following factors are desirable when considering adding new subscriptions to serials:
High subscription costs preclude collecting both electronic and print formats in most cases. Electronic subscriptions have the advantage of not occupying physical space and not requiring as much handling by library staff. Exceptions to this policy include lack of acceptable archiving practices on the part of the electronic format vendor or superiority of the print format with regard to images or other considerations.
Upon the decision of the Circulation & Access Services Manager, back issues of print periodicals are bound and shelved.
H. Manuscripts and Archives
The collecting policy for Manuscripts and Archives encompasses four main areas:
I. Special Collections
The Styberg Library has a small but significant collection of rare books, journals, and pamphlets in the Methodist tradition, Egyptology, and Ancient Near Eastern studies. It also includes rare Bible collections including several outstanding first editions of English translations.
Although considerable retrospective and rare book titles were purchased between 1964 and 2003, current funding for materials no longer makes new acquisitions possible. Additions to the collection are made very occasionally by the receipt of gifts.
J. Gifts
Gifts are no longer accepted as of July 1, 2022, due to space limitations. Rare exceptions may be made at the discretion of the Library Director.
The Styberg Library does not appraise the value of gift material. Donors may have independent professional appraisals performed for especially valuable gifts.
VI. Collecting Areas by Library of Congress Classification
Philosophy, Psychology, and Ethics (B-BJ)
The library collects only a limited range of publications in this field, with more depth in the areas of the philosophy of religion, psychology of religion, and religious ethics with an emphasis on Christian ethical thought.
Religions. Mythology (BL)
The library collects some reference works in this area.
Judaism (BM)
The library has a limited working collection of Judaica and Hebraica and depends on NUL. The library acquires selected Hebrew reference works such as standard editions of the Bible, encyclopedias, and dictionaries. It collects books on Hebrew Bible and the biblical and intertestamental periods. It also includes materials on the Essenes, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and related studies as well as in the area of Jewish-Christian relations and related fields.
Islam. Bahaism. Theosophy (BP); Buddhism (BQ)
The library maintains a working collection of current books needed in the teaching program in world religions and interreligious dialogues.
Christianity (BR)
Protestantism is collected at the Styberg Library in depth in all of its aspects. The areas of greatest strength in the existing collection are nineteenth and early twentieth century Protestantism, Luther and the German Reformation, the English Reformation, Patristics, and Pietism. The collection represents all western European languages. The library depends on other ACTS libraries and NUL for Medieval Church and Catholicism, although resources on Christianity in other continents such as Latin America, Asia, and Africa are being purchased to a greater degree given the growing emphasis on multiculturalism and works of theologians of color.
The Bible (BS)
The library has a strong collection in Biblical studies. This includes biblical texts, biblical theology, biblical commentaries and criticism, hermeneutics, and archaeology. Texts of the Bible are collected for research and historical purposes only. New editions of the Bible will be purchased in other languages, but in most cases no new printings or expensive editions and reprints.
Doctrinal Theology (BT)
The library has a strong collection in theological studies. While the library used to collect books written by Catholic, Protestant, and Eastern Orthodox authors in English, German, and French languages, the current collecting focus is on works in Protestant theology, primarily in English, due to the budget constraint. The library also actively acquires contemporary theologies from feminist, womanist, black, liberation, intersectional, post-colonial, and global perspectives.
Homiletics and Practical Theology (BV)
Liturgy, ritual, homiletics, Christian education (including curriculum materials), pastoral care and theology are collected in depth at the Styberg Library. The library has major collections of works on liturgics, many of which are classed by the church body, i.e., United Methodist Church or Church of England. The existing hymnology and church music collection are very strong in Methodist and Anglican hymnals and Psalters. The library also has a large collection of English language Protestant nineteenth and early twentieth-century hymnals and missionary periodicals.
Denominations and Sects (BX)
The emphasis at the Styberg Library in this area has been on Eastern and Oriental Churches, Anglican Communion, Catholic Church, and Society of Friends in the past. Particularly, the Anglican collection includes copies of the early Prayer Books and many other Anglican liturgical texts from the Hale Rare Book Collection. The history of the Church of Ireland, the Church of England, and the Episcopal Church in Scotland is well documented. For more in-depth collections on the Catholic Church, the Lutheran Church, the Presbyterian Church, United Church of Christ, and Unitarian/Universalist Churches, the Styberg Library depends on ACTS libraries.
Methodist Church and Studies (local classification: BY)
The Styberg Library has a very rich collection of material documenting the history of Methodism from its beginning to 1850, including a number of manuscripts and many of the writings of John and Charles Wesley. Its collection of American Methodism is very extensive, especially for periodicals, conference journals, and biographies. The literature of Methodism in areas outside of Britain and the United States is well represented. Current collecting is limited to new titles as well as to maintaining periodical subscriptions and standing orders for journals of the conferences of the United Methodist Church.
Cognate Areas (A, C-Z)
The library only acquires cognate material that has a direct relationship to its curriculum of theology and pastoral ministry or serves as background material for study in these fields. More current and in-depth material in these disciplines may be borrowed from NUL and other Illinois academic libraries. Areas where the library will collect some material are: G – religious anthropology; H – sociology of religion; K – canon law; M – church music; N – Christian art; P – Christian fiction and literature; R – medical ethics
VII. Policies on Collection Assessment and Maintenance
A. Binding and Repair
Journal volumes are bound if the journal is being retained by the library indefinitely. Journals that are retained for only a certain number of years are not bound. Journal backfiles for which permanent access is available in JSTOR are not retained.
Due to budget constraints, new paperback copies are bound only in exceptional cases.
The Circulation & Access Services Manager is responsible for binding and rebinding.
The Circulation & Access Services Manager sets aside books that may need repair, replacement, or withdrawal due to their physical condition. The Circulation & Access Services Manager and the Assistant Director of Technical Services are responsible for these decisions.
B. Inventory and Shelf-Reading
Both the Circulation & Access Services Manager and the Assistant Director of Technical Services are responsible to oversee the inventorying of all collections except archival and special collections. Inventory for general collections is performed once every five years.
Mis-shelved books impact negatively on use and satisfaction. The Circulation & Access Services Manager is responsible to oversee continuous shelf-reading. All collections except archival and special collections are shelf-read once a year.
C. Weeding
The library staff assess the collection on an ongoing basis. Decisions to discard specific items, like decisions to acquire new titles for the collection, are made within the context of the whole collection policy so that the integrity of the total collection is not impaired but may be enhanced when unneeded materials are removed from the collections.
General Weeding Guidelines:
Additional Weeding Guidelines for Reference Collections:
D. Cancellations
Normally the library attempts to fill all orders and honor commitments to ongoing publications such as periodicals and series, but from time to time it is necessary to cancel orders and subscriptions. Publications and products requiring an ongoing commitment should be evaluated not only when first considered for purchase, but also in subsequent years to ensure that they are still appropriate for the collection and worth the cost of continuing.
The circumstances that may prompt cancellation:
E. Multiple Copies
Generally, a single copy of each title is acquired, unless sufficient demand for multiple copies can be demonstrated or predicted. In addition to the general collection, there may also be a need for copies in other locations such as reference or faculty archives.
F. Replacements
Evaluating the continued need for material worn or damaged beyond repair or lost by users is a fundamental part of collection development. Standard works, classics, Bible commentaries, and studies on topics of current interest are usually the most heavily used materials in the library and most susceptible to damage or loss.
Library staff should replace material that is still of value to current or future users, but they may also determine that a lost or damaged item does not need to be replaced if other copies or editions are available in the collection or if the title was of marginal significance to the collection.
Course Reserves Policies
Updated August 2022
If library materials are assigned as required readings, those items are placed “on reserve” and have shorter checkout times. We do not put recommended readings on reserve unless specifically requested by the course instructor.
I. Physical Item Reserves
1. Physical items are located behind the circulation desk.
2. Request items at the circulation desk in person and return them to the circulation desk when finished.
3. Check out is for 2 hours and, if no other student has requested the item, it may be checked out again for an additional 2 hours.
4. Once checked out, reserve items may not leave the library during regular operating hours (see single exception below).
5. If a book is available on the shelf two hours before the library’s scheduled closing time, a student may check out the book overnight. The item will be due at the library’s next opening time.
6. A late fee of $1.00 per hour/per item will be assessed on all overdue reserve items.
II. E-Book Reserves
1. E-Books are accessed online through the library website.
2. A valid Garrett e-mail address and password are required to access e-book reserves.
3. E-Books on reserve can usually be checked out for 2 hours with a possibility of renewal.
4. Visit our e-book Guide for more details including loan period.
Interlibrary Loan Policy
Updated August 2022
I. Interlibrary Loan Borrowing Policies
On behalf of the students, faculty and staff of Garrett-Evangelical Theological and Bexley Seabury seminaries, The Styberg Library will gladly acquire items that we do not own from other libraries in order to serve the research needs of both communities.
A. Requesting Interlibrary Loans
1. Interlibrary Loan requests are made by submitting the request form online or by email (styberg.ill@garrett.edu).
2. When your request is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email.
3. When the requested item is ready for pickup, the ILL staff will notify you via email. Make sure that you provide us with your current email address.
4. ILL books must be picked up in person; we do not mail ILL books.
B. Eligibility
1. Current faculty, students, and staff at Garrett and Bexley Seabury theological seminaries are eligible to use our Interlibrary Loan service.
2. Anyone having overdue Interlibrary Loan materials or a blocked record is not eligible until the record is cleared.
3. Alumni, Northwestern students, visitors from other schools, and community patrons are encouraged to explore the Interlibrary Loan services of their home academic libraries or local public libraries.
C. How Long Does It Take to Receive an Item?
1. As the Interlibrary Loan service relies on couriers and the USPS, the average turnaround time is 10 days.
2. Please do not wait until assignment deadlines to make Interlibrary Loan requests.
3. Loan periods vary and are stipulated by the lending library. On average, most books are available for approximately 2-4 weeks.
4. The book may be eligible for renewal depending on the lending library’s policy.
5. Lending libraries also specify whether an item may be taken out of the library overnight or must be used within the library.
D. Fees
1. If there is a fee for an overdue or lost item from the lending library, the patron is solely responsible for paying it.
2. If a free lending library cannot be found, master’s students may be asked to pay the borrowing fees.
E. Materials Eligible for Request
1. Items not owned by The Styberg Library or Northwestern University Libraries.
2. An exception may be made if a library-owned item is checked out by another patron.
F. Materials Ineligible for Request
1. Textbooks or items currently on course reserves
2. Print or e-books owned by The Styberg Library or Northwestern University Libraries (if a library-owned item is checked out by another patron, an exception may be made)
3. Other materials that lending libraries decline to lend based on their policy
G. Renewing ILL Items
1. If the item is still needed after the due date, one renewal may be requested via email (styberg.ill@garrett.edu).
2. Once the renewal request from the patron is received, the ILL staff will submit the renewal request to the lending library. Most libraries allow one more renewal, but some do not.
3. Once the ILL staff receives a response from the lending library, you will be contacted with a new due date.
4. The request should be made before the book is due, but not sooner than five days before the due date.
5. Second renewals are not possible.
H. Returning ILL Items
1. All the ILL items should be returned to the circulation desk on or before the due date. If possible, please hand the item directly to a staff person.
2. Failure to return a book by its due date may result in the restriction of library privileges.
3. Please do not drop ILL items in the outside book drop during open hours. Exceptions may be made if the Library is closed.
I. Contact Information
II. Interlibrary Loan Lending
The Styberg Library lends library materials to other libraries (but not to individuals who are unaffiliated with Garrett or Bexley Seabury). Please contact your school or public library if you would like to borrow from us.
A. Materials Available for Loan
1. Circulating books (limit of 4 volumes per loan)
2. Theses and Dissertations (only if a second copy is available)
3. Microfilms (limit of 2 reels per loan)
B. Materials Unavailable for Loan
1. Periodicals – both bound and unbound – and newspapers
2. Reference materials
3. Items on reserve
4. DVDs and music CDs
5. Items from Special Collections and Archives
6. Theses of which we own only one copy
7. Items on the New Arrivals Shelf
C. Loan Period and Renewals
1. 5 weeks (includes mailing time)
2. Items are subject to recall after two weeks
3. No more than one renewal
D. Fee Schedules
1. ILLINET, ACTS, CATLA, Atla: NO CHARGE
2. All other libraries: $25.00 per filled loan request; $10.00 per filled article request.
3. Invoices are issued with the loan/photocopy. All payments should be made by check, money order, or credit card in US currency.
4. OCLC’s IFM, IFLA vouchers, international postal coupons, and cash cannot be accepted.
5. Lost ILL Item: $125 for replacement and $10 for processing.
E. Shipping
1. Loans are shipped via USPS library rate with a tracking number and ILDS (Code: UNI).
2. Scans are delivered digitally via email or WorldShare.
F. How to Submit Requests
1. OCLC (Code: JET)
2. Email: styberg.ill@garrett.edu
3. Phone: 847-866-3909
4. Fax: 847-866-3894
5. Mail: Interlibrary Loan, The Styberg Library, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, 2121 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60201
Research & Instruction Policy
Updated July 2022
The Styberg Library offers research support and library instruction to all members of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and Bexley Seabury Seminary. Some of the research support services are also extended to members of the Northwestern University community, alumni, and the general public. Research and instruction services are offered to support academic work and enhance learning and research. All of these services are offered in multiple modalities (e.g., in-person, online, and via chat, phone, and email) to meet the needs of everyone who seeks to utilize the library.
Regarding research support, . Regarding library instruction, we only offer embedded librarianship For specific information about the services and their availability, review the information in this policy.
I. Research Support
A. Services Offered
1. Location Assistance
a) Librarians are available to assist patrons in finding items of interest.
2. Reference Assistance
a) Librarians are available to provide ready reference assistance for brief pieces of factual information.
b) Librarians are available to answer questions about our collections, resources, and services.
3. Research Consultations
a) Librarians are available for one-on-one and small group research consultations to explore research topics and offer search strategies and suggestions.
4. Embedded Librarianship
a) Librarians are available for direct course support and can be embedded in Garrett Moodle courses. This can be arranged
directly via the Library Director and is only available for Garrett courses.
II. Library Instruction
A. Services Offered
1. Instructional Training
a) Librarians are available to train patrons on how to use library resources, including the online library catalog (USearch), reference resources, and online databases.
2. Library Workshops
a) Librarians are available to offer library workshops to small groups. These can be scheduled on demand, and others will be offered regularly each term.
3. In-Class Instruction
a) Librarians are also available to provide in-class instruction by request to explore research strategies and present relevant resources for the course. This can also be custom tailored to assignments.
4. Library Guides & Tutorials
a) Librarians regularly create guides and video/text tutorials about specific topics, resources/collections, and services. Librarians are also available to create course/topical guides by request.
5. Library Tours
a) Librarians are also available to offer library tours by request. Tours will also be offered regularly at the beginning of each term.
III. Requesting Research Support & Library Instruction
1. Library Contact Information
a) To request research support and/or library instruction, contact the Styberg Library via email, phone, or form. You may also visit the library during open hours to schedule an appointment or contact us via chat.
b) Librarians are normally available every weekday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, except holidays.
IV. External Research Support
1. Services & Fees
a) Librarians are available to provide research support to researchers and members of the general public, inclusive of alumni and the Northwestern community. This is comprised of items one through three underneath research support.
b) Librarians are available to help external researchers locate and access archival and special collections materials. Requests can be received via email or phone. Visits must be arranged in advance and must take place from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. For more information, see our Archives and Special collections policy.
c) We kindly request that you consider a donation for these services. We suggest at least $30 for each hour of service. See our Giving Opportunities page for options.
Collections & Resources, Research Support, and Library Services
