Privileges

The Stony Brook University Libraries provide access to over 2 million volumes and hundreds of databases. Our open stacks policy allows browsing and on-site use of physical resources (except databases and reserves) for all users. 

Borrowing privileges are for current SBU students, faculty, staff and courtesy borrowers. An SBU-issued ID or library card is required to be able to check out material.

All library users are expected to follow library policies. Failure to follow our library policies may result in the loss of library use privileges. Loss of library privileges will include an eight-week block on borrowing and interlibrary loan services.

Courtesy Borrowers
Borrowing privileges may be extended to patrons who are not enrolled or employed at Stony Brook University.  Please see the Courtesy Borrowing list for more information. Participants in our Courtesy Borrowing program are eligible to borrow library books at all campus libraries.  Other resources such as interlibrary loan, access to databases and hold requests may not be available to Courtesy Borrowers.

Courtesy borrowers such as Stony Brook Alumni, Community Borrowers, and affiliates (e.g. BNL, OLLI, Southampton Hospital staff) may take out up to 25 items at a time for a period of 60 days with a 30 day renewal.

Registration Information
Alumni
Bring your alumni card and a photo ID to the Main Stacks service desk Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm to set up your account. It is best to call ahead or email circulation@stonybrook.edu to expedite the process.
Contact the Alumni Office at 631-632-6330 or by email alumni@stonybrook.edu  for details about obtaining your alumni card.

Community Borrowers
Individuals wishing to have borrowing privileges, including local health care practitioners, at Stony Brook University Libraries may have guest borrowing privileges by completing a Community Borrower application form.  The form and the $60 annual fee can be brought or mailed to: 

Courtesy Borrower Program
Main Stacks Circulation, 3rd floor
Frank Melville Jr. Memorial Library
Stony Brook University
100 Nicolls Road
Stony Brook, NY 11794-3339

For more information, please call 631.632.7115 or email circulation@stonybrook.edu