Reading period access: From April 30 to May 14, access to the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center and the Fisher Fine Arts Library will be limited to PennCard holders and other Penn affiliates. Find more information.

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Service Alerts

Find announcements, policy changes, and up-to-date information about temporary service disruptions across the Penn Libraries. 

Access during Reading Period and Final Exams

From April 30 to May 14, access to the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center and Fisher Fine Arts Library will be restricted to individuals who hold one of the following credentials:

  • A PennCard
  • A photo ID from the University of Pennsylvania Health System (UPHS), HUP, CHOP, Pennsylvania, or Presbyterian hospitals, or UPHS affiliate.
  • A Penn Alumni Card
  • A Library Courtesy Card

Exceptions will be made for visitors (non-Penn affiliates) who make prior arrangements with a staff member. Included in this category are patrons who will be using materials in the Kislak Center. A visitor pass, which will be held at the guard desk, should be completed in advance. Please contact the Circulation desk (vpcircdk@pobox.upenn.edu) for details.

Access is also restricted at the Biddle Law Library. See the Law Library website for details.

Changes to the Franklin catalog

  • The Penn Libraries is building a new, user-focused library catalog.
  • Students, faculty, and researchers across the university are invited to participate in usability research and provide input on the new system design by joining the design task force.
  • The new system will be available for all library users to preview during the spring semester, and it’s expected to launch in Fall 2024. 

Masks are optional in all Penn Libraries spaces. 

  • In accordance with the latest campus guidelines, masks are optional in all Penn Libraries spaces. Masking is always an option for anyone who chooses to wear a mask for any reason.

More information 

Please note that the safety of our staff and our users is our top priority. All services are subject to change; revisions will be made as necessary with guidance from the University of Pennsylvania, city and state officials, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.