Rhodes University Library Services to the Community of Grahamstown
The RU Library provides a community information service to the public. There are two ways in which members of the Grahamstown community can have access to the Library:
• by becoming a member of the Library
• by using the Library on an occasional basis
1. Membership
Residents of Grahamstown (18 years and older) can apply to become members of the Library. Application forms are available at the Loans Counter on Level 1 of the Library. Once completed the form must be handed in to the Librarian: User Access Services, along with an ID size photograph, Identity Document (or Passport) and proof of Grahamstown residence. The Library charges an annual subscription fee of R50 for Grahamstown Community membership. Membership cards issued to these users allow them through the access-controlled entrance to the Library. This category of membership allows the user to borrow two library items for a maximum period of two weeks (with the exception of Short Loan materials and books that are in high demand by academic staff and students). Membership expires at the end of December and must be renewed annually. Please note that school children do not qualify for membership.
Graduates of Rhodes University, retired or ex-members of staff, or spouses of staff, who are resident in Grahamstown, qualify for Alumni, Retired Staff or Guest membership. No membership fee is charged, but an application form must be completed and proof of graduation (or previous employment) or a motivation by the RU staff spouse on a Library-provided template submitted with an ID size photograph, Identity Document and proof of Grahamstown residence. Graduate status at Rhodes will be confirmed with the Registrar’s Division by the Librarian: User Access Services, to whom the application form is submitted. Alumni & Retired Staff members are allowed to borrow 12 items for a period of 28 days and Guests 4 items for 14 days (with the exception of Short Loan materials and any other items which are in high demand by the University community). Membership expires at the end of December and must be renewed annually.
2. Occasional users
Members of the public who do not wish to become members of the Library (as detailed above) may also use the Library. They will be required to sign in at the Security Desk at the entrance to the Library on each occasion they enter the Library. Occasional users are able to read newspapers in the News Lounge and consult books and journals on the open shelves. Photocopying facilities are also available, with Plankomat card dispenser/reloaders available at the photocopying areas on each level of the Library.
For further information contact the Librarian: User Access Services, tel. 046 6038463
