Princeton University Library, one of the world's best-known research libraries, has launched a new program to offer cardholders at the Princeton Public Library access to its extensive print and electronic resources.
"This new program will make it easy for Princeton Public Library cardholders to consult the collections of the University Library," said Karin Trainer, Princeton University librarian. "We are excited about making our collections available to members of the local community, and hope they will benefit from access to our holdings. We enjoy working hand in hand with the public library -- we knew from them that this would be a worthwhile program. I'm looking forward to seeing more members of our local community connect with the deep resources of our modern research library."
Under the new program, Princeton Public Library cardholders can contact the public library to reserve one of four cards that provide access to the University Library. An individual patron can use one of the cards once a month, and the card is valid for 24 hours after being issued. The cards are for on-site library use only, and do not include privileges for checking materials out of the University Library. The program operates in the same way as the public library's Museum Pass program, which provides free admission to a dozen regional museums.
"We are delighted that our friends at the Princeton University Library have made these cards available to Princeton Public Library cardholders," said Leslie Burger, executive director of the Princeton Public Library. "Now, people in our community can explore the vast resources held by the University library. Whether using the libraries for research or pleasure, this distinguished collection of books, microforms, manuscripts, archives and rare books will provide our customers with a rare glimpse into one of the world's most distinguished libraries."
The Princeton University Library consists of the Harvey S. Firestone Memorial Library and 10 special libraries in 11 buildings across campus. The library's collections include more than 6.9 million books, 6 million microforms, 35,000 linear feet of manuscripts, and impressive holdings of rare books, prints, archives and other material that require special handling. The library's extensive electronic resources include databases and journals, statistical packages, images and digital maps.
The card access program, announced by the public library on Feb. 7, is already being used. Trevor A. Dawes, Firestone's circulation services director, said, "Already I got a call that there were reservations for the card for today, so I think it's going to be a very valuable service."
Library patrons may obtain the cards by visiting the Princeton Public Library's website, www.princetonlibrary.org, or by calling the library’s Information Desk at (609) 924-9529, ext. 220. Adults can reserve the cards up to 90 days in advance.
Additional registration will be required for access to special collections, such as the Department of Rare Books and Special Collections, as well as the Marquand Library of Art and Archaeology. A valid personal photo identification card will be required. Cardholders will have on-site access to most licensed electronic resources.
