Questions Frequently Asked About the Evening Hours Entrance Policy

What impact will the new Library access policy have for me as a Trinity student, faculty or staff member?
What's the Tiger Card, and how do I get one?
Will I be allowed to enter the Library after-hours if I forgot my Tiger Card?
What happens if my Tiger Card doesn't work?
Can I allow others besides myself to enter using my Tiger Card?
Why have Library hours for the general public been curtailed?
What gives you the right to restrict public access to the Library?
Aren't you required by law to allow public access to your Government Documents collection?
Does the new security system on the front door still allow for entrance by the physically disabled?
Where can I get more information or submit a comment, question, or complaint?
 

What impact will the new Library access policy have for me as a Trinity student, faculty or staff member?

Probably very little.  You'll simply be required to be in possession of your Tiger Card to enter the building after 8:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday.

What's the Tiger Card, and how do I get one?

The Tiger Card is the University's official identification card.  If you're a student or faculty or staff member, you should already have one.  For information on who is eligible to receive a Tiger Card, please call the Tiger Card Office at 999-7825 or send them an e-mail.

Will I be allowed to enter the Library after-hours if I forgot my Tiger Card?

If your identity as a member of the Trinity community can otherwise be verified, Library staff may be able to permit you entry on a limited basis.  Please be aware, however, that staff are frequently occupied serving patrons within the building, and may not be able to grant your request immediately.  You may contact the Circulation desk by calling 999-8127.

What happens if my Tiger Card doesn't work?

Call the Circulation desk at 999-8127 for access.  Be prepared to show alternate ID or to be asked a personal security question to verify your identity.  Obtain a replacement Tiger Card from the Tiger Card Office (999-7825) as soon as possible.

Can I allow others besides myself to enter using my Tiger Card?

This constitutes a potential security risk, and is strongly discouraged.  Please do not allow unknown persons to follow you into the building, and do not loan your Tiger Card to anyone for any reason.  Please immediately report any violations to Library staff (999-8127) or to Campus Safety (999-7070).

Why have Library hours for the general public been curtailed?

This policy was implemented in direct response to student concerns about safety in the Library after nightfall.

What gives you the right to restrict public access to the Library?

Trinity University is a private institution funded primarily by private endowments and student tuition, and all University resources exist primarily for the use of the Trinity community.  Consequently, the Library staff may implement policies and procedures which restrict some visitor privileges to provide optimal service to our primary community.  Our visitor access policy remains quite generous compared to similar urban-based, private universities across the country.

Aren't you required by law to allow public access to your Government Documents collection?

Yes, but not necessarily at any and all times.  It is within the Library's legal rights to restrict public access to certain time frames.  We will continue to provide public access to most Library resources from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Friday; 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, and from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday.  We also offer appointments to use the Government Documents collection outside of these hours.  For more information, please contact Jeremy Donald at 999-8176.

Does the new security system on the front door still allow for entrance by the physically disabled?

Yes, the automatic entry function on the front doors is still operational.  Individuals requiring access through this means will still be required to scan their Tiger Cards for entry, however.

Where can I get more information or submit a comment, question, or complaint?

You can contact Jason Hardin, Manager of Access Services, at 999-8181 or by e-mail.