Changes to your library during the COVID-19 response
For the last few months, the library has been working closely with the rest of the University to ensure we are active and responsive as things change during the COVID-19 situation. We are continuously monitoring and modifying how we can continue to support you with your studies, research and teaching requirements while also keeping you safe.
This situation is evolving, so please be sure to refer to the University’s COVID-19 FAQs page for the most up-to-date information from Deakin leadership. In the library specifically, several things have changed over the past two weeks.
Campus facilities
In response to government recommendations, we have closed the Warrnambool Library and Waterfront Library campuses until further notice. Limited study spaces are available in designated areas of Burwood Library on level 2, and the Learning Space in Waurn Ponds Library remains open for students who need access to a computer. Both campuses are open from 7am–7pm and monitored by Security.
Visitors to our open campus libraries must adhere to the government’s social distancing advice. This includes practices such as:
- covering sneezes/coughs with your elbow or sleeve, not your hands
- regularly washing and/or sanitising your hands
- meeting only in small groups with at least four square metres per person allowed
- staying 1.5 metres apart from others
- avoiding physical contact with others, including handshakes.
Staff interactions moved online
While you will have access to these library facilities if you need them, there are no face-to-face interactions with staff at the service desk. However, library staff are still available to answer your questions and help you find resources 24 hours a day on Library Chat or by phone and email.
Physical collection restricted
Access to print books and other items on campus shelves is not available. This includes Bonus+ and other cross-library borrowing privileges. No holds can be placed during this time and all existing loans have been extended until 30 June 2020 (these will be further extended if necessary). Please do not return any items you have on loan from the library until we reopen. There will be no penalties for late return of any loans.
While you will be unable to borrow from our physical collection, the library’s large collection of electronic content and resources will continue to be available and accessible via the normal pathways. This includes:
- databases and e-journals
- e-books
- streaming videos.
If you need assistance identifying high-quality resources or need some help, please don’t hesitate to contact us 24 hours a day via Library Chat, or email or phone between 8am and 11pm. We can often find better alternatives when a physical resource is not available.
Have a question? Don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our library staff are all working from home and continue to offer a full service to Deakin students and staff. We recognise this is a challenging time for everyone, and we are committed to our mission of providing the resources and guidance you need to succeed.