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Community Users Guide

A guide to assist community users with accessing and using the resources and services at the Patrick Power Library.

Library Access

Saint Mary's University alumni are welcome to access and use the following library resources:

  • Online library catalogue (also available off-campus)
  • E-books and e-journals (in-library use only)*
  • Most research databases (in-library use only)*
  • Print collections
  • Microform and microform readers
  • Photocopiers and printers
  • Reference and research services

*Access is permitted to electronic books, journals, and most Saint Mary's research databases in-person on designated "guest" computers within the Library. Off-campus access to Saint Mary's electronic materials and research databases is restricted to currently registered Saint Mary's University students, faculty, and staff.

Borrowing Privileges

Saint Mary's University alumni are eligible for an off-campus borrower's card. As part of Nova Scotia's Borrow Anywhere Return Anywhere (BARA) policy, members of the public (Nova Scotia residents 19 or older) may use their current library card from any university library, community college library or public library from across the province to borrow materials from the Patrick Power Library.

If you need an off-campus borrower's card, you can obtain one at the Library's Circulation Desk. In most cases, you need only present an official photo ID that includes proof of Nova Scotia residence, such as a driver's license, for privileges to be granted right away.

  • Basic loan period is three weeks for books and one week for periodicals and DVDs.
  • Reserve and reference materials are not available for loan.
  • Material may be renewed three times, unless an item is on hold or has been recalled for use by another borrower (see instructions on how to renew materials online).  
  • Holds may be placed on material that is signed out.
  • Materials may be borrowed from any Novanet library in-person or by using the document delivery service Novanet Express.
  • Alumni are not eligible for Inter-Library Loan or book recall privileges
  • Materials may be returned at any Novanet library or public library in Nova Scotia.

For more information about borrowing materials from the Patrick Power Library, please contact the Circulation Desk at 902-420-5547 or email access1@smu.ca