Message from Dr. Brian Doherty, Dean of the Jane Bancroft Cook Library, August 9, 2020
Welcome! Over the past summer, we’ve been providing services and planning for fall. Our library technical assistants and administrative staff have been processing requests for books and other materials, purchasing books and supplies, developing new procedures to keep us all safe, and adding new tools to their skills toolbox via online training. Our librarians have been providing virtual research support, working with faculty to develop classes, and leading and participating in campus initiatives focused on course delivery and curriculum development. We have all worked together to create services and spaces that support your academic pursuits and protect our campus health. What can you expect at the library this fall?
The Cook Library plans to open for the fall semester to currently enrolled or employed New College and USF Sarasota-Manatee communities, beginning August 16. Please note, at this time, the Cook Library is not open to non-affiliated community members.
Everyone in the building is wearing a mask at all times, and is practicing social distancing. No food or drink is allowed in the library.
Please bring your NCF or USF current ID with you! You will need your ID to enter the library.
We’ve created spaces that allow a safe distance (at least six feet). Look for the furniture to be arranged differently, and computer spacing that supports social distancing. The Media Lab and the Silent Study Room are open.
Plexiglass! Just like you’ve seen instores and restaurants, look for new plexiglass protection when you check out materials. We want you and our staff to be safe.
A limited number of study (thesis) carrels are available on a first come/first served basis. We will not assign carrels for the 2020-2021 academic year.
No spaces that encourage gathering. This change makes us sad too, but one of the necessary steps to slowing the virus’ spread. The Collab and Group Study Rooms are closed. The Fagin Holocaust, Genocide and Human Rights Collection room is restricted, but you can request materials via paging (more in our services LibGuide).
Virtual librarian support. You can contact our librarians for virtual research consultations and virtual classroom instruction:
Our plan is to be open seven days per week, although the hours will be somewhat reduced. Check the library home page for the most current information.
The New College campus, including the library, tracks information about the spread of Covid-19, especially in Florida, and best practices for slowing the spread. Our plans are dynamic, and responsive to the new knowledge. You can find our most up-to-date information here on the website, and in our LibGuides: