TURNSTILE AT LIBRARY ENTRANCE
Questions and Answers
How do I get into the Library building now that the turnstile is activated?
You need a key-card for access to the building. These RFID (radio frequency identification) cards are unique to each individual ... your card is tied to your Library account and created especially for you.
How do I make the barrier open?
Your card does not need to be swiped like a credit card. Just hold it a few inches away from the red sensor light; it will BEEP and you will also hear a sound as the mechanism unlocks. The light will turn green. Use the turnstile as you enter or exit. If you are in a wheelchair (pushing a baby stroller, etc), you may use the swinging gate to enter or exit. If you exit through the gate, it must be opened by pushing the release button in the doorway.
If I have not yet obtained my card, how do I get to the Circulation Desk to ask for it?
At the left of the entrance, near the portrait, there is an intercom device. If you press it, the sound will be heard inside the Circulation Office, so they will know you need attention.
Who can obtain a card?
Current students, alumni, faculty and staff of Union and BTSR can obtain a card. Members who were enrolled as “public” patrons before 26 April 2008 can obtain a card. PCUSA clergy and certified Christian educators and United Methodist clergy may join at a cost of $50/year. All others who wish to join will be charged $1700/yr or $850/half yr. For membership details, click HERE and HERE.
Why does membership cost so much?
That amount is less than the actual cost per person of creating and maintaining a research-quality academic library collection. The William Smith Morton Library is not a public facility and receives no public support of any kind. Our primary mission is to provide resources for the instruction and ministry of the students, faculty, alumni/ae and staff of our two supporting institutions.
How much does the card cost?
The card is free, but replacements for lost cards will cost $10 (to defray the cost of producing these specialized and individualized cards).
I’m a student at VCU, UR or Randolph-Macon. Can I still enter the Library?
Current students, faculty and staff of area institutions with which we have reciprocal relationships can enter the Library and borrow up to five items at a time. Please call the Circulation Desk for more information (804-278-4310).
Can I bring my children into the Library with me?
BTSR or Union students, faculty, staff and alums may bring family members into the building. Please make your wishes known at the Circulation Desk.
I am a visiting scholar wishing to use the Special Collections. How do I do that?
Access to our Special Collections (rare books and manuscripts) must be arranged by appointment in advance. You will be charged $10/day for a temporary access card. For further information, consult our Special Collections page.
I am a guest lecturer/preacher/instructor or a participant in a Continuing Education program. How do I enter the Library?
The person on campus who is managing your visit must arrange with us for a temporary Visitor Card.
What about Sprunt Lectures, Commencement, D4D and other special events?
During special events at Union or BTSR, access to the building for guests and participants can be arranged.
Why are you restricting access to the building?
We have experienced some security problems that cause us to be concerned about the safety of workers and patrons in the Library, especially at night and on weekends when the building is lightly staffed. Also, in the current economic climate, it becomes more difficult to provide materials and services to persons who do not contribute to the cost of maintaining the Library.
Why do you allow membership only for Presbyterian and Methodist clergy?
We are formally authorized by the PCUSA and United Methodist denominations to prepare their candidates for ordination and educational ministry.
I am a registered Extension patron and live outside of Richmond but I occasionally come to the Library when I am in town. How do I enter the Library?
Please use the intercom at the left side of the turnstile and the Circulation staff will let you in. Go directly to the Circulation Desk where they will print you an entry card after verifying your patron information and seeing a photo ID. You will then be able to use that card in the future to enter the building if you are in town.
I am bringing a group of people to meet with IRC staff for some help with curriculum evaluation. I have a card, but the rest of the members of the group do not. Can they all enter on my card?
If a group is meeting with an IRC staff member for curriculum help, arrangements must be made in advance with IRC staff. The staff member will meet your group at the gate and arrange for all members of your group to be admitted.
Can I lend my card to someone else to use?
NO card holder may allow access to any other individual who is not an authorized user. Do not give your card to someone else to use. It is authorized for you alone. "Lending" your access card to an unauthorized individual will be grounds for terminating your access account.
Can I get trapped inside the building?
No. In case of emergency or power failure, it is possible to exit freely through the turnstile or the swinging gate.
For further information, please contact our Circulation Department :
| Name | Title | Phone | |
| Rachel Perky | Circulation Supervisor | 804.278.4335 | rperky@upsem.edu |
