Get Items Off the Shelves

Stacks that hold books and other materials across library locations are open for browsing and retrieving items yourself. The main exception is materials in offsite shelving, which you have to request for access.

See finding materials by call number for help locating items in the stacks.

Some Hatcher North and Fine Arts Library stacks are not ADA accessible. You can ask at any information services desk for assistance retrieving items in the stacks and we’ll be happy to help.

What to do with items you find

To check items out, take them to the location's information services desk (usually near the exit).

If you pull an item off the shelf and decide you don't want it, leave it on a table or nearby book cart.

Having trouble finding an item?

Place a request for pick up at a library desk or delivery to your department if you can't find an item that is supposed to be on the shelf. We will look for it and be in touch.

If you're not affiliated with U-M, complete our materials request form for visitors.