Reading Area

The reading areas of the Library are open to all Library users in accordance with the following rules.

  • As Courtesy to all other users and staff of the Library, all persons in the Library’s reading rooms must keep the level of noise low. Any person causing noise or any other disturbance shall be warned by the Library Staff to be quiet. If the noise or disturbance continues, the Librarian or the Library Assistant may have culprit removed from the Library. If the person refuses to leave the Library when so ordered, or repeatedly creates noise or disturbance, the Librarian may revoke the culprit’s privileges, or take some other action as she/he deems appropriate.
  • No person may take into the reading rooms of the Library a briefcase, or any other bags, or container in which books may be placed and kept hidden from the view. The Library shall provide an area at the Library entrance designated for storing personal belongings, including bags. The Library will not, however, be responsible for any loss of valuables.
  • Any container taken into the reading room in violation of this rule shall be opened for inspection at the check-out point before being taken out of the Library.
  • Bags, briefcases, raincoats, and umbrellas shall not be allowed into the Library, and should be left at the designated area near the exit.
  • All users must present an identity card when required to do so.
  • Consultations and discussions in the Library are strictly prohibited.
Use of Library Materials
  • No user will be allowed to avail Library facilities without a valid ID Card.
  • Library materials must not be marked, defaced, misused, mutilated or annotated in any way.
  • Books/Journals must be left on the tables where they were used. Users should not return them to the shelves. This will be done by the librarians.
Technology Use
  • The Library’s Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) is meant for searching ONLY materials in the Library collection.
  • Tampering with all the Library equipment, changing the hardware or software or settings on a Library computer, or using a Library computer for a purpose other than that designated by the Library is an offense to the College.
  • Cell-phones must be switched off and may not be used in the reading room.
Code of Conduct

Theft and Defacement of Library Materials

  • Theft, mutilation, or defacement of library materials is a serious offense that undermines the academic mission of the College by depriving others of access to these resources.
  • Students found guilty of these acts will face disciplinary action and may be subject to legal proceedings.
  • To ensure the security and integrity of the collection, Library staff reserve the right to inspect bags, briefcases, and backpacks of patrons upon leaving the library.

Borrowing Rules

  • No library materials may be removed from the Library without following proper checkout procedures.
  • A valid ID card is required for borrowing materials.
  • Items designated for “in-library use” must not be taken out of the Library.
  • Borrowing limits:
    • Academic staff: 3 books for one month.
    • Students: 1 book for two weeks.
    • External users: Use of library materials on-site, with permission from the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs and Research.
  • All users must present their ID cards at the checkout counter.
  • Borrowed books must be returned on or before the due date, either by the borrower or a designated agent. The borrower is responsible for ensuring that the material is properly checked in under their name.
  • Users must promptly inform the Library of any changes to their contact information.
  • Any loss or damage to library materials must be reported immediately.
  • Lost items must be replaced by the borrower at current market value, along with an administrative fee of 150 Birr, plus any accumulated overdue fines.
  • If a book is returned in a damaged condition, the borrower will be charged for the repair or replacement costs as determined by the Library. The borrower remains liable for any pre-existing damage unless reported at the time of checkout.

Overdue Books and Fines

  • A fine of 2 Birr per day will be charged for each overdue book, excluding days when the Library is closed.
  • If the due date falls on a College-declared holiday, books may be returned the next business day.
  • The Library will send email reminders for overdue books. However, failure to receive these emails does not exempt borrowers from overdue fines.
  • If books are not returned after repeated reminders, borrowing privileges may be suspended for a period determined by the College Library Committee.
  • Borrowers with overdue books or unpaid fines will not be allowed to borrow additional materials until all outstanding items are returned and fines are paid in full.
  • Absence or illness does not excuse borrowers from overdue charges.

Prohibited Conduct in the Library

  • Harassment or threatening behavior.
  • Use of obscene or abusive language or gestures.
  • Inappropriate behavior toward Library staff.
  • Failure to maintain appropriate personal hygiene.
  • Smoking and eating are prohibited within the Library.
  • No notices may be displayed in the Library without the Librarian’s approval.
  • Desks and furniture should not be moved without the Librarian’s permission.

User Rights

  • All authorized users (including faculty, staff, and students) have the right to access and use Library resources.
  • Users have the right to request a receipt for any fines paid.