To the Editor:

In response to the letter of Oct. 3, 1995 (“Library Woes”), by the undergraduate student who was dismayed to discover an ISU Library book checked out until May 10, 1996:

The library provides two standard loan periods for its users. For undergraduate students and merit staff, the standard loan is two weeks. For graduate students, faculty, and professional and scientific staff, the standard loan is an “extended” or academic-year loan, with all items falling due on the last day of spring semester.

The purpose of this longer loan period is to support the anticipated research needs of these users. However, regardless of the length of the loan period and the status of the original borrower, any book in the library system is subject to recall within two weeks, if needed by another borrower.

Patrons wishing to recall a book need only to complete a brief form at the Circulation Desk in the Parks Library or any library branch facility.

While the recall process does require time and advance planning, it is currently the best means available to ensure equitable access to circulating collections. The library attempts to expedite this process by handling all recall requests on a top priority basis. Patrons can expedite this process as well, by responding promptly to any such notice received.

Incidentally, the ISU Library’s loan and recall policies are described in more detail in a guide sheet available at the Circulation Desk in Parks Library, as well as in the Reference Desk kiosk.

David Gregory

Head, Access Services

ISU Library