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COVID-19 Information & Resources

For information on Library Services during COVID-19 closures and general reference and information relating to COVID-19 itself.

The Changing Nature of our Situation

Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 situation, library services may alter in the coming months in ways we do not currently expect. We will update this guide to reflect any changes that occur. Thank you for your patience and understanding during these times of uncertainty.

The first floor of Zuhl library is open for limited services.

Guidelines and Behavioral Expectations

  • In compliance with the Governor's orders and HED guidance, the occupancy of the first floor of will be limited to 25%.  Maximum occupancy is limited to 31 people in this phase of reopening.
  • Access to the library and resources is limited to only NMSU students, staff, and faculty and affiliated institutions, DACC and Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine.  At this time, community members are not able to use the library.  We look forward to welcoming the community back soon!
  • A valid NMSU or BCOM ID and face covering or mask is required to be admitted to the library.  At all times, a face covering must be worn properly for safety.
  • No consumption of food or drink is permitted within the library.  Food and drink must be consumed outside of the building.  Zuhl Fuel is currently closed.
  • No group work is permitted due to social distancing guidelines.  Group study rooms and doctoral study rooms are currently unavailable.

Library Updates

Although our libraries are physically closed, we are working hard toward providing resources and services for the NMSU Community.  Due to the closure of a majority of academic libraries in the pandemic, there are several challenges we are actively addressing. Your patience and understanding are deeply appreciated.

Physical Access to the library:  

  • Access to the library and resources is limited to only NMSU students, staff, and faculty and affiliated institutions, DACC and Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine.  At this time, community members are not able to use the library.  We look forward to welcoming the community back soon!
  • The first floor of Zuhl is open with a limited occupancy of 31 to comply with the HED guidelines of 25% of total occupancy.   Patrons must show a valid NMSU ID and be wearing a face covering.
  • Branson Library will remain physically closed for the remainder of the year. 
  • The second and third floor of Zuhl will remain closed in this phase of reopening.
  • The Instruction Labs in Zuhl Library and Branson Library will remain closed at this time.  Instruction will be provided online via Zoom or Canvas.
  • The Patent & Trademark Resource Center (PTRC) is physically closed.  Virtual consultations are available.

Access to physical items in Zuhl and Branson: 

  • NMSU staff, faculty, and students may request for library staff to retrieve items from Zuhl and Branson libraries using the "Get It" service available via Primo on the library's website. 
  • The library is suspending all loans of equipment, such as chargers and dry erase markers.  
  • Print reserves have been suspended for the semester.  
  • Physical access and research assistance for Archives and Special Collections is by appointment only.  
  • Physical access and research assistance for Government Documents is available via Ask Us! Or by contacting, David Irvin, Government Documents Librarian by email dirv@nmsu.edu

Interlibrary Loan/Document Delivery:

  • In addition to electronic journal articles and book chapters, the library is processing requests for physical items held in other libraries. Please keep in mind not all libraries have resumed sharing physical items.  Wait times will vary and may be longer than usual.  Please check your Illiad account to track the progress of your request.
  • To ensure the safety of Document Delivery staff and to reduce contact points throughout campus, the faculty delivery service will be suspended for fall 2020. The return book pick-up service is also suspended, due to the need to quarantine books, and the heightened risk of exposure if following the normal procedure.

Reference Services: 

  • We are currently providing all service virtually.  These services include chat reference, research consultations via Book a Librarian and email. 
  • Beginning August 3rd, the physical reference desk will be open M-Th from 10am -2pm.  

Library Instruction:

  • All instruction will be provided online, including the library's credit courses, LIB 311 and LIB 101.  Please see the Instruction tab to the left for options to request instructional support.

Archives & Special Collections:

  • Access to materials and research assistance will be provided by appointment only.  Please contact archives@nmsu.edu

Please see the tabs on the left hand side for additional information.