Building Use Policy

Schaffer Library is a campus hub for studying, learning, and research. We provide a dynamic environment that supports the academic and personal growth of our community through collaborative spaces, expert guidance, and cutting-edge technologies. Each of the four floors houses a variety of spaces, services, and collections that foster innovation and engagement. This policy outlines expectations for using the Library and functions to support the academic success and safety of the Union College community.

Library users should be respectful of spaces, materials, Library personnel, and other Library users at all times. Unwanted behavior should be reported to Campus Safety who may be contacted at x6911 or (518) 388-6911, and violations may result in being asked to leave the building.

The Library building opens at 8am and closes at 2am during most of the academic year, and opens weekdays at 9am and closes at 5pm during breaks. Hours are posted on our website and at our main entrance. Entering the Library before opening or staying past closing are prohibited. Library personnel will notify building users of impending closure by flashing lights approximately 15 minutes before the building closes.

Entry to Schaffer Library requires a current, active Union College ID for access. All users are encouraged to keep their Union ID on them at all times while using the Library. Union College students, faculty, and staff without a current ID are encouraged to contact Campus Safety to obtain a replacement. As a reminder, Union IDs are also required to check out Library materials and to use the printers.

Users who are not affiliated with Union College must schedule an appointment to enter Schaffer Library. During the 24/7 access period (exams), Schaffer Library is restricted to Union College students, faculty, and staff only; no non-Union-affiliated appointments will be granted. Visitors may use the computers in the Library, however, access to electronic resources varies by title.

Schaffer Library’s Special Collections & Archives preserve the College’s rare and unique archival and print collections. These materials are available for research by appointment in our reading room on the third floor of the library. The reading room is available for appointments Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. -4:00 p.m.

Various types of study spaces are available on each floor, with designated zones for quiet study, quiet collaboration, and open collaboration. Users should be aware of which zone they are in and abide by any noise restrictions. Library staff reserve the right to ask users to lower their noise level or relocate to a different area of the Library.

Study rooms are located on the basement level of the Library, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. To comply with fire regulations, no objects may block the door of a study room.

Schaffer Library’s print and media collections are located on all floors of the building. All materials used in the stacks should be placed in the wooden book return bins when finished.

Caution should be exercised when operating the high-density movable shelving systems in the basement level. Users should always check to make sure all adjacent ranges are clear before mobilizing any range.

Computer workstations are located on the basement, first, and second floors of the building. All users should follow the College’s Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources policy when operating any computer. Misuse of information technology in the Schaffer Library building should be reported to the ITS Help Desk on the first floor.

Viewing stations in the Learning Commons are available on a first-come, first-served basis for users who need to access visual media required for coursework.

Food and beverages are permitted in certain areas of Schaffer Library. Please use caution when consuming food or drinks near Library materials or equipment, including public computers. Food or drink spills in the building should be reported to the Library Service Desk on the first floor for appropriate follow-up for cleaning. Water fountains with bottle stations are located near the restrooms on all floors. Food and drink are not permitted in Special Collections and Archives, nor in classrooms when utilizing rare materials from the Special Collections and Archives Division or from the Union College Permanent Collections.

As of July 1, 2016, the entire Union College campus is a tobacco/smoke-free environment, including all buildings and campus vehicles. As such, Schaffer Library follows a zero tolerance policy on smoking. Any observation of smoking, including e-cigarettes, vape pens, or any other smoking paraphernalia, will result in a call to Campus Safety.