Q: What libraries are open for study?
A: Doheny, Leavey, Norris Medical, and the Science and Engineering Libraries are open for quiet study by reservation with limited capacity. More library buildings will open throughout the summer as conditions allow. We’ll update the list of open libraries on the current operations page page as we confirm dates.
Q: Is Trojan Check required in the libraries?
A: Yes, Trojan Check continues to be required for everyone studying in, working in, or otherwise using library spaces. You may find it easier and quicker to screenshot your Trojan Check verification (the screen with the QR code) when presenting it at the library entrance.
Q: Are masks required in the libraries?
A: Yes. In line with County of L.A. and university guidelines, masks are required at all times inside library spaces regardless of vaccination status.
Q: Can I reserve a study room?
A: Not yet. Study rooms are not accessible for group or individual study.
Q: What are the hours of opening?
A: Leavey is open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Leavey summer hours will continue through August 22.
Doheny, Norris, and Science and Engineering are open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, for quiet study by reservation.
Q: How often can I make a reservation?
A: Reservations are accessible until they are filled. Please only make reservations for study times you plan to use. In order to help keep everyone safe and provide reservations as equitably as possible, the libraries may return to a limited number of reservations per week if we approach current capacity limits.
Q: Who can make a study reservation?
A: Members of the USC community who have USC net ID credentials. You will need to present Trojan Check confirmation, your physical USC Card, and your library reservation confirmation to enter the library. You can obtain your USC ID card through the university's USCard services.
Q: Why do I have to make a reservation?
A: The libraries are opening with limited capacity to help keep everyone safe. Reservations allow us to maintain physical distancing, cleaning schedules, and compliance with university and county health guidelines.
Q: Do I need my USC ID card to make a reservation?
A: You need USC net ID credentials in order to make a reservation. You will need to present your physical USC Card, your Trojan Check confirmation, and your library reservation confirmation to enter the library. You can obtain your USC ID card through the university's USCard services.
Q: How does the reservation system work?
A: Start your reservation here. You’ll receive a confirmation with instructions for checking in on the day or your scheduled study time. On the day of your reservation, check-in online using the link in your confirmation email, complete Trojan Check, wear your mask, and be prepared to show your library reservation confirmation and you physical USC ID Card when entering the library.
Q: Do I need to arrive at the beginning of my reservation period?
A: You can arrive at any time during your scheduled visit. However, the reservation will end at the originally scheduled time, as everyone will need to clear the library so that we can clean appropriately.
Q: Can I leave and return during my reservation period?
A: Yes, but please take your belongings with you. Holding seats with unattended belongings is not permitted and puts your belongings at risk. You will need to present your check-in confirmation, Trojan Check, and your physical USC ID card each time you enter the library.
Q: Can I bring food or drink into the library?
A: Food and drink, including water, are not permitted for the time being.
Q: When will more library buildings open?
A: Pending conditions, we’re planning to open additional library spaces throughout the summer. Specific dates remain to be determined. Please check the libraries summer 2021 site regularly for up-to-date information.
Q: I already did Trojan Check. Do I need a study-space reservation, too?
A: Yes. Please make your study reservation at: https://libraries.usc.edu/studyreservations.
Q: I have questions about air circulation in the libraries. Where do I ask?
A: USC Environmental Health and Safety has reviewed currently available library spaces and determined that they meet guidelines for opening. Please get in touch with the USC COVID-19 hotline at 213-740-6291 or covid19@usc.edu for any additional questions related to air circulation.
Q: Can I check out books from the libraries?
A: Home delivery remains available. Find current home delivery information at: https://libguides.usc.edu/idd/idd-policy Books stacks in the Doheny, Science and Engineering, and Norris Medical buildings are accessible. You must make a reservation to enter library buildings in order to check books out.
Q: Can I return books in the library if I have a study reservation?
A: Yes. You can return books at the circulation desk in libraries open for study space. You will need to make a reservation to enter library buildings. Find additional book-return options at: Additional book returns options are listed here https://libanswers.usc.edu/access/faq/21354.
Q: Can I use printers in the library?
A: Yes, we currently have two printers available on the second floor of Leavey Library and two on the Plaza level of Norris Medical Library.
Q: What if I don't have a reservation but would like to use a library restroom?
A: To maintain capacity limits, only those with confirmed reservations and check-ins can enter libraries. A map of available campus restrooms can be picked up outside our library entrances.
Q: Can I check out laptops from the library?
A: Not yet. The USC ITS Technology Assistance Program is maintaining a waiting list for laptops. You can sign up here.