How to Place an Item on Hold
If you need a book, movie, or media item, you can request it directly through the online catalog. The system will manage your request based on whether the item is currently on the shelf or checked out by another borrower.
Important Hold Reminders
What Placing a Hold Does
- For On-Shelf Items: Placing a hold alerts library workers to pull the item from the shelves and set it aside behind the front desk so it is ready for you when you arrive.
- For Checked-Out Items: It gives you "dibs" on being next in line. As soon as the current borrower returns the item and it is checked back in, the system will automatically place it on hold for you.
Need an Item Sooner? Consider a Recall
If another patron has a book you want before their regular due date has arrived, you can opt to place a recall instead of a standard hold. Initiating a recall gives the current borrower 7 days to return the book to the library. Upon its return, the item will immediately be placed on hold for you.
Step-by-Step Guide to Placing a Hold
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Step 1: Perform Your Search
Log into your account and search for the item using the main catalog search bar at the top of the page.
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Step 2: Locate Your Selection
From your search results screen, review the list of available titles. You can click directly on the title link to view full bibliographic details, holding locations, and real-time availability status.
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Step 3: Click the Hold Option
Once you are on the item's detail page, look at the action options menu located along the right-hand sidebar. Click on the Place hold link option.
Important Note on Login Requirements
Patrons must be securely logged into their library profile to successfully request a hold. If you have not logged in yet, the system will automatically prompt you for your university login credentials before proceeding to the final confirmation window.
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Step 4: Confirm and Choose Pick-Up Details
Review your hold request summary on the final confirmation screen, verify your designated pick-up library location, and click the final confirmation button to lock in your position in the queue.
Understanding Item Availability
An item's official shelf status will continue to display as "Available" to the public until a staff member physically pulls it from the shelf and processes it through the circulation system. Once processed, the item's status transitions to "Waiting," and you will be automatically notified that your materials are ready at the service desk.