University Libraries

By Sarah B. Cahalan

150 checkouts; 150 scans; 150 questions

Of course, libraries never really closed, so you’ll have to forgive us if all the talk of “reopening” rubs some of us the wrong way! The Marian Library has circulated over 150 books since we closed our doors in March, and, thanks to our colleagues in access services, we’ve provided nearly 150 scans through interlibrary loan and document delivery (a scanning service for UD patrons). We’ve answered over 150 reference questions and provided fun and useful quarantine resources such as Zoom backgrounds, lesson plans and jigsaw puzzles. We’ve documented Marian devotion during the pandemic, prepared learning tools for remote classes and conducted overdue, behind-the-scenes work on both physical and virtual collections.

All of this was accomplished with a significantly decreased staff and budget. We are delighted to welcome colleagues back from furloughs, and we are eager to start adding materials to the collection again with a focus on items that broaden the scope of the collection and contribute to the University of Dayton’s commitment to anti-racism.

For safety reasons: Distancing, masks, appointments

Recently, we have been focusing on safety protocols and preparation so that we can physically open our doors again, mindful that our state and our nation are still in the midst of a deadly pandemic and that no cultural heritage objects are as valuable as a human life. The Marian Library will reopen on Aug. 24 for appointments only, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. We will prioritize in-person appointments for patrons who need access to non-circulating materials such as archival records, rare books and periodicals. Appointments for in-person research can be made by email or by phone (937-229-4214) and are only available for individuals with an active UD identification badge (which is required to enter the building). Our main reading room has a reduced occupancy limit, and everyone must observe safe distancing and wear a face covering.

To schedule a virtual consultation with a librarian in the Marian Library, use Book a Librarian. Librarians can help identify resources at any stage of a research project. In addition, Marian Library personnel are eager to work with UD classes, whether single sessions or longer-term research projects using Marian Library collections. Just reach out to start the conversation.

Requesting and picking up Marian Library materials

Circulating materials — a majority of the books in the Marian Library are available for checkout to anyone with an active UD account — can be requested through the University Libraries catalog. Items will be gathered daily Monday through Friday. You will receive an email when the items are ready for pickup at the Hello Desk, which is inside the main entrance on the first floor of Roesch Library. If you need help placing a request, please email for assistance. 

Temporary hiatus: At the Manger and art lending

One of the saddest decisions in the past months has been to suspend the annual At the Manger exhibit of Nativity scenes and pause the lending of art and Nativities on campus. When it is safe and when resources allow, we hope to reinitiate these programs, which are so beloved on campus and in the greater Dayton community. In the meantime, we are working to improve cataloging of art collection materials in order to make these objects more accessible in the future.

Check online for changes

Everything these days is subject to change! The most updated information on the University Libraries reopening plans is available on the Libraries website. Please check that page before scheduling any travel. No matter what happens over the coming months, library personnel will work to connect you with the academic and devotional materials you need. 

— Sarah B. Cahalan is an associate professor and director of the Marian Library.

^{The image shown, Notre-Dame des Ailes holy card (Our Lady of the Wings) detail, is from the Marian Library's Holy Card Collection.}