UCSF Library Course Reserves Guide

Overview of UCSF Library Course Reserves

UCSF Library course reserves provide a focused collection of materials selected by instructors to support specific courses. These materials are held separately from the general collection and are made available under controlled access and loan rules to ensure equitable use by enrolled students. The reserve system helps manage high-demand items, supports curricular goals, and complements the broader research collections available through the UCSF Library.

Understanding how reserves work can help students and instructors use this service effectively, avoid common issues, and integrate reserves into course planning and academic workflows. This guide covers policies, procedures, formats, locations, and practical tips for working with course reserves at UCSF.

What Are Course Reserves

Course reserves are instructional materials placed on reserve by faculty or instructors to ensure ready access for students in a particular class. Materials may include textbooks, course readers, lab manuals, reference works, problem sets, and, in some cases, access to licensed digital content. The Library manages physical reserves at the Parnassus Library Circulation Desk and may provide links or access to electronic reserves through the Library’s platforms.

Items placed on reserve are typically use-only within the library or available for limited checkout periods to meet the demand of enrolled students. Instructors are responsible for providing materials in compliance with copyright and licensing rules and for specifying the materials they wish to be placed on reserve. This structure helps balance access with copyright and budgetary constraints.

Purpose and Benefits

• Guarantees timely access to required course materials for enrolled students.
• Supports equitable access when multiple students need the same item simultaneously.
• Reduces cost barriers by using library-owned or licensed materials when possible.
• Streamlines course preparation and material discovery for students.

Eligibility and Audience

Course reserves at UCSF are generally available to currently enrolled students, faculty, and staff of UCSF. Reserve access is tied to active course enrollment or instructional roles within a UCSF course. Materials are not typically available to external community users or alumni unless explicitly permitted by the instructor or Library policies.

Instructors and course coordinators may request reserves for their courses. Eligibility for electronic reserves may depend on licensing agreements, while physical reserves are usually available at the Library location designated by the Library staff.

Placing Materials on Reserve

Instructor Process and Requirements

Instructors who wish to place materials on reserve must submit a reserve request through the Library’s system, typically via the Library website or course management tools. Requests should include course details, a list of materials, and preferred formats (e.g., print or electronic). Instructors may be asked to provide ISBNs, article titles, links to licensed content, or copies of materials as appropriate.

The Library reviews each request for availability, licensing terms, and copyright compliance. Items that are not owned by the Library or that are subject to restrictions may not be placed on reserve. Electronic reserves often rely on links to licensed databases or uploaded content that complies with fair use or TEACH Act considerations.

Materials Accepted and Limitations

• Print textbooks, course packs, and readings.
• Library-owned electronic content with appropriate licenses.
• Instructor-provided digital files that meet copyright guidelines.
• Excluded items may include commercially restricted test banks or materials that require purchase under site licenses.

Checkout, Access, and Loan Policies

UCSF Library course reserves typically allow short loan periods to maximize access. Policies cover loan duration, renewal rules, hold and pickup procedures, and penalties for overdue items. These policies are designed to ensure that all enrolled students have an opportunity to use reserve materials during the course term.

Students may place holds on reserve items, pick them up at the designated location, and use them in accordance with the specified loan period. Loan periods, renewals, and penalties vary based on the item type and instructor preferences. The Library communicates policies clearly at the time of pickup and via account notifications.

Loan Periods and Limits at a Glance

Accessing and Using Course Reserves

Locating and Retrieving Physical Reserves

Physical reserve items are typically held at the Parnassus Library Circulation Desk. Students can view the Library catalog record for each item, confirm availability, and place holds. Upon notification, items can be picked up during designated hours. Return instructions and due times are provided at pickup. Some high-use items may be stored at a compact shelving area and require additional retrieval time, so planning ahead is recommended.

Accessing Electronic Reserves

Electronic reserves may be delivered through links in the Library catalog, course management systems, or directly uploaded files that comply with copyright guidelines. Access is restricted to enrolled students and may require authentication through the UCSF network or single sign-on. Students should use the Library website, LMS links, or course syllabi to locate electronic reserves and follow any access instructions provided by the instructor or Library.

Copyright, Licensing, and Instructor Responsibilities

Instructors requesting reserves must ensure that materials comply with copyright, licensing, and fair use policies. The Library staff may consult licensing agreements to determine whether electronic content can be linked or uploaded. Instructors are expected to provide accurate citations, limit uploaded content to what is legally permitted, and consider alternatives when necessary. Students are encouraged to report concerns about access or compliance to Library staff.

UCSF Library applies consistent, legally compliant practices for both physical and electronic course reserves, supporting teaching and learning while respecting intellectual property rights.

Tips for Students and Instructors

For Students

• Check the Library catalog early to confirm availability and loan policies.
• Place holds as soon as possible to secure materials before deadlines.
• Review loan period and return instructions to avoid overdue issues.
• Use electronic reserves through official Library links and campus networks.
• Contact Library staff for help locating reserves or resolving access issues.

For Instructors

• Submit reserve requests early to allow time for processing and verification.
• Provide complete citations, ISBNs, and, when possible, stable links to electronic content.
• Choose formats that align with licensing terms and student needs.
• Communocate reserve policies and location clearly in the syllabus and course platform.
• Update requests if materials change during the term.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can use course reserves at UCSF

Course reserves are available to currently enrolled UCSF students and to UCSF faculty and staff who are listed as instructors or course coordinators. External community users and alumni generally do not have access to reserve materials unless special arrangements are made in advance.

Can I renew a reserve item

Renewals are typically not allowed for most reserve items to ensure fair access among students. Some materials, such as certain media or electronic links, may have extended access tied to the course term rather than standard renewals. Check the specific record in the catalog or contact staff for details.

What if a reserve item is lost or damaged

If a reserve item is lost or returned in damaged condition, the borrower may be charged replacement or processing fees according to Library policy. Students should handle reserve materials with care and report issues promptly to the Circulation staff.

How are electronic reserves different from physical reserves

Electronic reserves provide online access to digital content through Library platforms and often require authentication. They are governed by licensing and copyright rules. Physical reserves require in-library visits or short checkouts and are subject to loan periods designed for shared access. Both types of reserves support course access while adhering to legal and practical constraints.

Can instructors place any item on reserve

Instructors may request materials, but not all items can be placed on reserve. Items subject to strict licensing or copyright restrictions, such as certain test banks or consumable workbooks, may not be eligible. Library staff review requests and advise on alternatives when needed.

Summary

UCSF Library course reserves are an essential service that supports equitable access to required course materials for enrolled students. By following clear processes for placing materials, managing loans, and respecting copyright and licensing rules, the Library helps instructors design effective courses and helps students succeed academically. Understanding policies, planning ahead for access, and communicating with Library staff ensures a smooth and reliable reserve experience throughout each term.