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
During the reading period and final exams, December 9–18, 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 Biddle Law Library from December 6 to 18. Access during this period is limited to members of the Penn Carey Law community and Penn students registered for law classes. Penn non-law students may request circulating books for delivery to Van Pelt Library. To request access to the non-circulating collection, Penn non-law students must complete the access request form at least two business days prior to the requested visit, providing a detailed description of their research request. They should also expect to conference with a law librarian prior to their visit.
Ongoing restoration at Fisher Fine Arts Library
The iconic Anne and Jerome Fisher Fine Arts Library, a significant architectural landmark, will celebrate its 135th anniversary in 2026. To preserve this historic brick and terra cotta structure for future generations, a comprehensive exterior restoration project is planned. This critical 20-month undertaking will run from spring 2025 through fall 2026.
While the library will remain open throughout the restoration, visitors can expect some noise and disruptions. Alternate quiet study areas are available at library locations across campus.
Find more details about this important preservation effort on our dedicated project page.
New library catalog
- The Penn Libraries has built a new, user-focused library catalog, with a simpler look and easier search features. Explore it at find.library.upenn.edu.
- Franklin, the previous catalog, was retired on January 15.
- We’ll continue to adapt the search tool to patrons’ evolving needs. See the release notes if you’re interested in reading about the latest changes, and use this form to alert us to bugs, suggest improvements, or ask questions.
More information
- Looking for more information about regular library operations and services? Browse the basics in our Quick Start Guide, search the FAQ, or ask us a question.