Information for alumni

Privileges and borrowing

Alumni members may email the Privileges Desk at privdesk@library.berkeley.edu or visit the desk during open hours to set up or renew an account. Please refer to the Library cards for non-UCB patrons section for more information.

  • Alumni who do not have a library card are accorded the same privileges as visitors.
  • Alumni of any University of California campus who have a paid membership in any of the 10 campus alumni associations may obtain a UC Berkeley library card.
  • Visit the California Alumni Association website to find out how to join.
  • All applicants must provide proof of California residence and a current government-issued ID such as a driver’s license or passport.
  • Please bring your alumni association membership card and required identification to the Privileges Desk.
  • The library borrowing card is good for the length of your annual membership.
  • Lifetime alumni association members will receive cards with three-year terms.
  • All cards may be renewed in person or via email as warranted by the expiration date on the library card.

Available to alumni with a library card

  • A maximum of 20 books checked out at any one time
  • Access to most campus libraries, including the Main (Gardner) Stacks through Doe Library
  • Reference assistance
  • Databases, library catalogs, and other educational resources via public computers in the libraries
  • Many library events
  • Library exhibits
  • Printing/scanning in the libraries
  • Disability resources: Find equal-access Library services and research assistance for persons with physical and print disabilities.

Not available to alumni with a library card

  • Remote access to licensed databases, e-journals, e-books, etc.
  • Interlibrary borrowing
  • Items on reserve for UC Berkeley students
  • Law Library
  • Art History/Classics Library
  • Moffitt Library
  • Graduate Services
  • Media Resources Center

Freely available resources for research

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