Campus libraries January update

January 7, 2022

A photo of a library on McMaster University's campus.

McMaster University Libraries has established its plan for the start of the winter term to support the ongoing safety and wellbeing of the community, and the university’s plans for the winter term.

Library reopening dates

Mills Learning Commons will open Jan. 10. Accessed via the southeast tower of Mills Memorial Library, the space offers reliable internet, printer access, and study spaces. Hours are available, and will be updated as needed, on the McMaster University Library website.

Mills, Thode, and Health Sciences libraries are tentatively set to reopen on Jan. 31 when level-one undergraduate classes are expected to resume in person. Innis Library is closed for construction until 2023-24, with resources being offered through Mills library and online.

MacCheck and masking

Those using Mills Learning Commons in the coming weeks will be asked to show their completed daily MacCheck upon entry. Masking continues to be required at all times. Food and beverages are still not permitted. Those using our spaces are reminded to be kind to other users and staff. Information about MacCheck can be found on the COVID-19 Back to Mac website.

Accessing library materials – HathiTrust Emergency Temporary Access Service (ETAS)

McMaster community users have digital access to more than 830,000 in-copyright books held in the library’s print collections through the reactivation of the HathiTrust ETAS. Read full details about HathiTrust, how to access the service, and responses to frequently asked questions in this library news story. Watch for links to ETAS content in the library catalogue.

Books by Mail/Curbside pickup/Scan & send

Books that are not available as electronic books (e-books) from Thode, Mills, and Innis libraries will be available soon by curbside pickup from Mills library. Books from those three libraries may also be mailed to any Canadian address through the Books by Mail service. Please email library@mcmaster.ca with your request. Scan and send service is also available. For information about accessing print materials from Health Sciences Library, email hslib@mcmaster.ca.

Virtual library help

Library staff is available virtually to assist you with your questions. Help will be available by live chat, as well as by email. Virtual research consultations may also be booked.

For information about virtual help hours and ways to connect with the Health Sciences Library team, visit their website. Have questions? Email hslib@mcmaster.ca.

For inquires related to Thode, Mills, and Innis libraries, see the library remote support hub webpage or main website. Can’t find what you are looking for? Email library@mcmaster.ca.

Social media updates

Updates about campus libraries will be shared on social media. Please watch McMaster University Library’s main Twitter and Instagram accounts for news about Mills, Thode, and Innis libraries. McMaster’s Health Sciences Library will provide updates on its Twitter and Instagram accounts.

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