Borrowing and Returning materials

University of Houston-Downtown students, faculty, and staff can borrow books and other library materials from W.I. Dykes Library collections and from libraries at other University of Houston System campuses. Limited borrowing is also available to UHD alumni and visitors. More details about borrowing privileges and obligations can be found on the Borrowing and Circulation page.

Return books to libraries at UH-Downtown, UH-Clear Lake, or the University of Houston. After-hours returns can be placed in a drop box in the library's 5th floor lobby. Return audio and video materials to staff at the library where they were checked out.

Circulation staff will notify borrowers of the due date when materials are checked out.  If you forget the due date for materials you borrowed, see My Account or call 713-221-8186.  For details about loan periods for books and other library materials, see Loan Periods and Renewals.  Materials from the general collection can be checked out for at least 6 weeks.

The loan period for some materials can be renewed for additional time. Renewal may be blocked if another person has requested the item. To renew an item, visit the Circulation Desk, call 713-221-8186, or renew online using My Account.

Place a hold to reserve a book that is checked out or to request delivery from another University of Houston System campus:

1. Go to the UHD Library Catalog.
2. Search for the book you want.
3. Click on the title to display the book record.
4. Click on the request button at the top of the book record screen.
5. Fill in the form and click on the submit button. Be sure to include your current e-mail address.

You will be notified by e-mail when the book is ready to pick up. Books are usually delivered from other campuses in 3-5 days (excluding weekends). If the book is checked out to another person, it will be delivered after the previous borrower returns it. If someone has requested the same book before you, the book will be delivered after that person has checked out the book and returned it. To confirm your request or to check on the status of your request, see My Account or call 713-221-8186.

Please return or renew materials before the due date to avoid late or lost item charges.  Borrowers are responsible for returning library materials in good condition.  Replacement costs may be charged for damaged materials such as books, CDs and DVD packaging.  For details about charges for late, lost, or damaged items, see Library Fines and Charges.