Guidelines & Services

[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1664555189048{margin-top: px !important;padding-top: 60px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”1163″ img_size=”1000×400″ alignment=”center”][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1519674235532{margin-top: -50px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_toggle title=”Accessibility for Patrons with Service or Support Animals:”]Adults may benefit by having a service or support animal accompany them while at work, play, or when visiting institutions such as the library. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.

Animals are prohibited in the Library with the exceptions of trained service dogs used by individuals with disabilities, and service dogs in training identified with vests and under the control of the handler at all times.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Advertising”]No one can place ads or notices on the interior or exterior walls of the Library doors, or windows without permission from the Library Administrative Office and/or Students Affairs.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Ask a Librarian”]Not finding what you need? Call or email your question to a librarian.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Athens”]Athens is an access management system used by the PHSU community to provide access to electronic resources. A personal Athens account provides our users with a unique username and password to allow access to online resources. You can request a personal username and password from the Library or by the website.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Borrower Obligation”]You are responsible for returning or renewing library materials on time. You do not have to come directly to the Library to renew a book, you can do so through the website. Materials are subject to recall and prompt return is necessary. You are held responsible for any fines. See Fines[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Borrowing Privileges”]Privileges are determined to meet the instructional and research needs of faculty, students, and staff at PHSU Library. Privileges are non-transferable and must be exercised accordingly.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Cameras”]The Library recognizes the right to privacy and the need to ensure the safety and security of our students, faculty, employees, users, visitors, and property. Surveillance cameras are in use at marked locations in the Library to assist in the investigation of specific safety and security incidents.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Cell Phone Use”]Electronic communications devices such as cellular phones are permitted in the Library. However, they must be used in a way where disturbing other library users is avoided. Electronic devices should be set to silent or vibrate mode. Any conversation on a cell phone should be held in an area where conversation will not disturb or distract others.  Students prefer a quiet academic environment while in the Library. Please respect their need for silence by using your phone outside the library building.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Children in the Library”]The PHSU Library provide an adult, unsupervised environment for the purpose of academic research and support of the University’s curriculum and research activities. Children are not allowed in the Library.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Circulation”]Provides ready access to Library materials. Anyone is welcome to use materials in the Library. A valid PHSU identification card or Special Permission is required to check out any item or request other Library services. Books circulate for two weeks. You may be renewed if someone else has not requested them. See Borrower Obligations & Fines.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Computers”]There is a network of 60 computers located throughout the Library. Photocopying / Printers machines are also available on both floors. A wireless network is also available.

Priority for use of Library’s computers and equipment is given for academic use. Those using computers and equipment for non-academic purposes may be asked to vacate the equipment when others are waiting to engage in academic use.  Only one person per computer is allowed due to the limited workspace and the nature of academic work.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Community – Visitors and Community Guests”]

Here are the most important things you need to know about using our library as a guest:

[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Confidentiality of Circulation Records”]Please be assured that your patron record, which contains personal information and record of all materials currently checked out, remains confidential.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Copyright”]Copyright is a form of protection provided by the laws of the United States (Title 17, U.S. Code) to the authors of “original works of authorship” including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and certain other intellectual works, whereby authors obtain, for a limited time, certain exclusive rights to their works. The Copyright Law of the United States governs the making of photocopies of other reproductions of copyrighted materials. Any user that violates “fair use” may be liable for copyright infringement.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Cubicles”]By nature of their design, the cubicles are to be used by individuals only. Loud talking and cell phone use is not permitted in this area.

The Library is not responsible for loss of items left in the cubicles; valuable items should not be left unattended.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Damaged materials”]Please point out any damaged materials to the front desk. If the Library’s materials are damaged while in your possession, notify staff of damages upon return. If they are not overdue, there will be no penalty unless they are irreparable.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Database Searching”]The Library provides assistance in the database searching. Self-service database searching requires PHSU affiliation. You may request a literature search by calling or stopping by the 2nd floor front desk. If you need assistance, ask the librarian or send an e-mail.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Databases”]All databases are remote access, but you have to register with Athens (our single sign-on software to access e-resources) for use them. Workshops are available for database searching.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Destroying or Damaging Materials, Equipment, Software, or Facilities”]The following are examples of actions that are prohibited. (This is not a comprehensive list.)

[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Disabled Patrons”]The Library’s personnel make every effort to provide library services to persons with disabilities. Please ask for assistance whenever you are having difficulty locating or obtaining an item or service. The Library strives to remove physical barriers whenever possible, but if any barriers exist for you, please contact library staff and appropriate assistance will be provide. There is an elevator available and handicapped parking is at the front of the Library.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Disruptions”]Disruption to the study and research of patrons or the interruption of their education process is prohibited: Examples are listed below. (This is not an inclusive list.)

[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Diversity”]The PHSU Library is committed to promoting a learning and working environment free of discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation or group affiliation, age, gender, disability, genetic information, marital or veteran status.

“Diversity is an essential component of any civil society. It is more than moral imperative; it is a global necessity. Everyone can benefit from diversity, and diverse populations need to be supported so they can reach their full potential for themselves and their communities. … To achieve diversity in substance as well as form, libraries have to open their arms to all perspectives and experiences. … To this end, these standards provide a framework to support in engaging the complexities of providing services to diverse populations, and recruiting and maintaining a diverse library workforce.” (ALA ACRL Diversity Standards 2012, p. 1)[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Dog guides”]Adults may benefit by having a service or support animal accompany them while at work, play, or when visiting institutions such as the library. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.

Animals are prohibited in the Library with the exceptions of trained service dogs used by individuals with disabilities, and service dogs in training identified with vests and under the control of the handler at all times.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Eating and Drinking”]You are not allowed to have food or drink in our Library. See Food and Drink Policy.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Elevator – (available 24 hours)”]It is an alternative to the stairs to access the second floor of the library and through the bridge, to the Academic Building.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Emergencies”]In the event of fire, inclement weather, earthquake, or other emergency situations, immediately move away from the shelves and windows. Library staff will alert building occupant to the procedures for evacuation.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Fines”]Overdue materials are fined at $0.50 per day. Reserve materials are fined at $0.50 per hour.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Fire Alarms”]All alarms should be treated as serious emergencies. You must leave the Library calmly through the main exit or through the emergency exits.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Food and Drink Policies”]We are counting on all of you to help us make sure that books, journals and computers remain safe and that the building stays clean. Food and drink are NOT ALLOWED in the Library. Make sure that any trash or wastepaper gets disposed of in the appropriate trash receptacles. If you see a mess somewhere that someone else has left behind, help us out by cleaning it up or at least letting a staff member know. Encourage your fellow patrons to take care of the library and to treat it responsibly.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Furniture”]Study carrels, tables, and ergonomic chairs are provided. Do not take library furniture out of its area. Also, refrain from placing your feet on the furniture or sitting on the desks or tables.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Gifts (Donation) Policy”]The purpose of the Gifts Policy is to define the principles and guidelines that govern the acceptance of gifts received by the Fundación Angel Ramos Library.

The Library will accept gifts if the material supports and enhances the instructional programs of the School. Materials donated to the library become the property of the library and will be handled as the library deems most appropriate. Donated materials may be added to the collection at the library’s discretion. The library reserves the right to distribute materials as it sees fit. Donated materials may be catalogued, recycled, offered to other institutions or discarded at the library’s discretion. It is the responsibility of the donor to bring gift donations to the library.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Guests – Visitors and Community Guests”]Here are the most important things you need to know about using our library as a guest:

[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Harassment/Discrimination”]Harassment or discrimination of any nature is prohibited whether it is based on race, gender, color, national and ethnic origin, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, veteran or marital status. See Diversity.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Headphones”]The use of headphones is encouraged; however, the volume/sound cannot distract other students. Students and community members must supply their own headphones.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Hours”]PHSU Library hours are posted at the main entrance. Holiday hours or academic recess will be posted well in advance. Final checkout of your materials and photocopying must be completed 15 minutes prior to closing. Please respect closing time of the library.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Identification”]Your valid PHSU ID card is needed to check out materials.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Interlibrary Loans (ILL)”]Material not owned by our Library may be obtained through Interlibrary loan. Rapid delivery service may be requested. The Interlibrary Loan is available to any faculty, staff, and currently enrolled student of PHSU. The staff of the Hospitals affiliated with the School, also qualify for the service. The Alumni are eligible for ILL services, and are encouraged to contact the personnel library for interlibrary loan assistance. ILL e-forms are available in our Home Page. For more information, ask the librarian.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”ILL Costs”]The Library does not charge for ILL service. However, other lending libraries may charge a fee for services. We do ask you if you are willing to pay a charge if one is applied. You can indicate if you are willing to pay a charge and set a limit as to how much you would be willing to pay when you submit your request. If there is a charge and you have set a limit of $0, you will be notified.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”ILL Request (Limit to)”]You may submit as many requests at one time as you wish. At least 5 requests per person per day will be processed. More of your requests will be processed only depending upon the overall number of requests received. You are encouraged to prioritize your requests in the order by which you wish them processed. All ILL requests will have to work on a first-come, first, first-served. If you need assistance with completing ILL forms and other ILL-related questions, please contact Interlibrary Services:

jpereles@psm.edu

jquinones@psm.edu

cesanchez@psm.edu[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”ILL Request (Submitting an)”]The ILL request form is accessed through the Library’s Home Page. You can send an email with the complete bibliographic information. Also include your name, email and the telephone number where we can contact you, if necessary.[/vc_toggle][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1519674200506{margin-left: 60px !important;background-color: #f8f8f8 !important;border-radius: 15px !important;}”][vc_toggle title=”Internet”]Our Library promotes universal access to information and serves as a gateway to worldwide biomedical information. All of our workstations provide full access to the internet. Wireless network is also available.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Journals”]Journals are selected in support of the various academic, research and clinical care needs of PHSU. These are located in the 2nd floor and are arranged in alphabetical order by title. Recent issues of all of our print subscriptions are also arranged in alphabetical order on special shelves in the 1st floor. Journals circulate for five days, the last issue received circulates for three. If we don’t own the journal you request, it can be located through interlibrary loan. See Interlibrary Loan[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Learning Resource Center (LRC)”]Our computer facilities located on the 1st and 2nd floor offer access to electronic databases, the internet, link services and office productivity applications as Word, Excel, Power Point, etc. are also available. These facilities are available for PSM&HS authorized users. There are no computers available for running personal applications, CD-ROMS, etc. Our users may only utilize applications that are installed in the library network. Photocopying/printers machines are also available.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Library Materials”]Library materials are for the use of all registered users (you can register through our Home page, click on the Online Borrower Registration link to access the form). Please do not deface items by writing, highlighting, removing pages, or altering materials in any way. Unattended library materials at cubicles or tables are picked up for shelving.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Library Privileges”]The Library’s resources and services are for the instruction, research and patient care of PHSU community.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Library Services”]The Library staff is willing to consider new special services as needed. If you have a need that is not being met, please do not hesitate to ask the librarian for assistance.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Library Skills”]Guidance or workshops on how to use the library resources more effectively are offered. Individual as well as group instruction, library orientations, and tours are also provided.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Library’s Web page”]This website links to external websites or online resources.  This website uses a third-party application, Google Analytics, to collect and process data about your activity on this website for statistical use purpose. None of the data collected by Google can personally identify you.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Lost and Found”]If you have lost personal belongings, you can check at the front desk. If labeled, an effort will be made to contact you. You can also contact the Security Guard of the School. The Library is not responsible for loss of items left in the cubicles, tables or elsewhere in the building, valuables should not be left unattended.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”MyAthens”]Athens is an access management system used by the PHSU community to provide access to electronic resources. A personal Athens account provides our users with a unique username and password to allow access to online resources. You can request a personal username and password from the Library or by the website.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Newspapers”]The Library subscribes to: El Nuevo Día, and regional free newspapers. You can pick up, self-service, at the first floor. Also, through the library website you can access more than 3,500 newspapers in English or Spanish in the link: United States Newspaper and Directory of Spanish Newspapers in Spanish.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Overdue Materials”]All materials are considered overdue if you have not returned them by the specified date. Your borrowing privileges will be blocked immediately until the late fee is paid or the materials are returned. A courtesy reminder after the due day will be mailed. See also Fines.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Patrons with Service”]Adults may benefit by having a service or support animal accompany them while at work, play, or when visiting institutions such as the library. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.

Animals are prohibited in the Library with the exceptions of trained service dogs used by individuals with disabilities, and service dogs in training identified with vests and under the control of the handler at all times.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Personal Belongings”]The Library is not responsible for personal belongings left unattended. Any lost items will be taken to the counter of the first floor. Items left unattended for an extended period will be considered abandoned and placed in this area.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Photocopying / Printing Machines”]There are three photocopiers/printers (color) available in the Library, one in the 24-hour room in the first floor and two on the second floor. Photocopies or printing are 5¢ per page (black and white) and 50¢ for color photocopies and 70¢ for color printing. One Coin / Bill Vend Station is available in the 24 hours study room on the first floor. It enables users to pay for copies with coins and bills. You have to use the exact change. You need to have exact change to use the machine.  It does not give back the change.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”PHSU Library Accounts”]Registered students, faculty, and staff are automatic   lly entitled to PHSU account privileges and only need to fill out the form properly to get username and password in the IT Department.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Recall Service”]Items checked out are subject to recall at any time, usually for use by another patron or to be placed on Reserve. You should receive a Recall Notice informing you if this occurs. If you receive a Recall Notice, please note that the due date on the notice may be different from the original due date stamped in the item being recalled. Please return the recalled item immediately.

Recalled Items may not be renewed.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Reference”]Serves as an information contact source for PHSU users and community. Assistance in using any of the library’s collections or services is also offered. In-depth consultation, searching and computing bibliographies are also provided.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Removing Items from Reserves”]Faculty must indicate when they want items to be removed from Reserves. At the end of each term, all items will be removed from reserves. Faculty are encouraged to collect their reserve items or make arrangements to have them collected. Items not collected will not remain on reserve. They will be stored in the library.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Renewing and Returning Materials”]Renewing Materials may be done at the Circulation Desk, online, through the Library catalog, or by phone at 787-840-2575   ext. 2225. When calling to renew, please speak with a circulation staff member personally. Most materials may be renewed unless they have been requested by another borrower. All materials must be returned by the Due Date to avoid fines. Patrons are responsible for returning or renewing items by the due date.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Reserve”]Many of these books can be accessed through the databases we have in the Library. Other textbooks and course-related materials are kept on reserve next to the circulation desk in the first floor. They may be checked out for two hours for library use only. Most reserve materials may also be checked out of the library one hour before closing and are due one hour after opening the next day. Reserve materials must be returned to the desk where they were checked out. Faculty interested in placing items on reserve for student use should contact the Circulation Desk.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Reserve (Responsibility Policy)”]The decision to place personal items on reserve remains with the faculty member. While the department staff will strive to ensure that material is handled properly, the Library cannot be held responsible for the abuse, destruction, loss, and/or theft of personal items placed on reserve. Some minor wear on personal items (e.g. cracked spine, torn cover) should be expected as students usually make photocopies from these works. In addition, Reserve Staff may have to alter the materials by adding barcodes for checkout and labels for filing.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Reshelving”]After reading, leave materials on the tables or cubicles.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Restrooms”]Handicapped / wheelchair accessible restrooms are in the first floor of the Library.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Searches for materials not on the Shelf”]If you cannot locate materials that are not checked out and are not on the shelf, you can request a search. Library staff will attempt to locate materials for you.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Smoking”]PHSU will provide a smoke and tobacco-free environment for all members of the University community. This includes students, faculty, employees, visitors, volunteers, patients, and customers.  In compliance with the established policy by Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU) the library facilities are non-smoking environments.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Special Library Services”]The Library staff is willing to consider new special services as needed. If you have a need that is not being met, please do not hesitate to ask the librarian for assistance.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Study Rooms”]If a group does not occupy the study room within 15 minutes after the start time of their reservation, then the room is considered available to other groups.  Six rooms for small group discussion are available. A TV with integrated VHS and DVD is available in each one. Priority is given to projection. These rooms must be reserved at the circulation desk, or at the desk of the 2nd floor, prior to use. Groups that have not reserved a room will be required to vacate the room.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Study Room Policy”]Library offers the use of study rooms which are available ONLY to PHSU students, faculty, and staff.  Rooms vary in size and equipment available. Patrons must adhere to the following guidelines:

[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Suggestions”]Any suggestions that will improve PHSU Library services and collections are welcome. A library material suggestions form is available in the Library’s Home Page. You may give recommendations for books, journals, databases, software, audiovisuals resources, etc. These will be evaluated and considered for purchase.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Support Animals”]Adults may benefit by having a service or support animal accompany them while at work, play, or when visiting institutions such as the library. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.

Animals are prohibited in the Library with the exceptions of trained service dogs used by individuals with disabilities, and service dogs in training identified with vests and under the control of the handler at all times.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Surveillance Cameras”]The Library recognizes the right to privacy and the need to ensure the safety and security of our students, faculty, employees, users, visitors, and property. Surveillance cameras are in use at marked locations in the Library to assist in the investigation of specific safety and security incidents.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Telephone and Cellular”]Patrons are asked to maintain a quiet atmosphere in the Library. The use of any equipment that disrupts patron is prohibited. Please set cellular phones to vibrate mode when entering the Library. Exceptions will be made when those equipment’s are needed for documented medical reasons. The use of video cameras requires the permission of the Library Administration.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”24 Hour Study Rooms”]One located in the first floor and the others one in the second floor. Cubicles, chairs, computers, and photocopy/printer machine are available.

Four ADA compliant study carrels are available, two in each floor. These wheelchair accessible carrels shall be clearly identified with the International Symbol of Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities. The elevator is an alternative to the stairs in accessing the library’s two floors.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Video Surveillance Systems”]The Library recognizes the right to privacy and the need to ensure the safety and security of our students, faculty, employees, users, visitors, and property. Surveillance cameras are in use at marked locations in the Library to assist in the investigation of specific safety and security incidents.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Visitors and Community Guests”]Here are the most important things you need to know about using our library as a guest:

[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Warning concerning copyright restrictions”]The Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specified conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. The Indian River State College Libraries reserve the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of Copyright Law.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Website Use”]This website links to external websites or online resources.  This website uses a third-party application, Google Analytics, to collect and process data about your activity on this website for statistical use purpose. None of the data collected by Google can personally identify you.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Withdrawal of Library Privileges”]Services listed are available to all PHSU registered users. If you have questions, regarding services go to the Front Desk. Abuse of any guidelines listed can cancel library privileges, and if necessary, disciplinary action will take place. Examples include: the mutilation or hiding of library materials; borrowing for unauthorized persons; use of privileges for external businesses; refusal to renew library materials; and, not paying fines and/or replacement of lost materials[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Library Bill of Rights”]The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

  1. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
  2. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

  1. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
  2. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
  3. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996.

 

Revised January 2018[/vc_toggle][/vc_column][/vc_row]