University Libraries Reopening Framework

In Stage Four, the University Libraries are expanding services in our library buildings, and increasing the number of library staff who are working on campus, in consultation with University administration. The Libraries will enter Stage Four on July 1, 2021. Current conditions still require COVID-19 vaccination or surveillance testing for entry into the Information Commons and Lewis Library. Cudahy Library remains closed at this time. During Stage Four, the Libraries will reduce physical distancing measures, and will introduce more options for requesting and picking up physical library materials.

All policies and services from Stage 3 remain in effect as we begin Stage 4. This stage will be a time of experimentation for the Libraries, as we move towards fully reopening with library services that reflect the current needs and expectations of our users, taking into account the lessons learned during the pandemic period.  All changes made during Stage 4 will be dependent on current safety conditions and guidance from the University Administration. The safety of students, faculty, and staff will remain the highest priority.  

Building access to the Loyola Information Commons and Lewis Library is extended to the following groups. All visitors must comply with campus guidelines and capacity limits, including COVID-19 vaccination/surveillance testing. a Mask wearing is encouraged for all individuals and required for anyone who is not fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

• Current students
• Faculty (including emeritus faculty)
• Staff

See Current Library Services page for full details about current library services

During this phase, the University Libraries will attempt to meet user needs to the best of our ability, with a focus on the following priorities: 

• Library collections and materials to support research and teaching, including archival collections.
• Research support via chat, email, Zoom, and telephone.
• Teaching and learning support for in-person, synchronous, and asynchronous courses.
• Individual and small group study spaces.
• Gradual expansion of interlibrary loan services for physical materials.
• Gradual opening of more library spaces for library users.
• Virtual and distance programming for library users, including alumni, Friends of the Libraries, and community guests.

• Based on campus guidelines for increasing onsite staffing levels: 

• Gradually resume interlibrary loan services for physical books.  

• Expand options for accessing teaching and research help services. 

• In accordance with campus safety guidelines: 

• Open more spaces in the Libraries for current students, faculty, and staff. 

• Expand options for checking out library materials. 

• Throughout this stage:  Library hours will be adjusted as needed to meet demand and staff capacity, in accordance with campus guidelines.

• As access to our physical book collection is expanded, the HathiTrust Emergency Temporary Access Service (ETAS) will end.

See up to date information on the web:

• Library website
• Loyola Archives & Special Collections website
• Women and Leadership Archives
• Updates to library services
• Remote learning guide

Get updates sent to you:

• Sign up to receive email updates about service changes
• Follow us on social media @LUCLibraries on Facebook and Twitter, or @librariesluc on Instagram.
• The Libraries will send out regular updates to the campus community, and to targeted groups of students, faculty, and staff, to share information about updates to library services and access.

The Libraries will remain in Stage 4 as we transition to a stable, post-pandemic mode of operation. The Libraries will move towards fully reopening in concert with the campus as a whole. We look forward to welcoming back alumni, community guests, reciprocal borrowers, and Friends of the Libraries in Stage 5,