Why did I get a notice that an item I have is recalled?

Notification of Recall

When someone recalls an item, the current borrower is required to return the item within a short period. Borrowers will be notified immediately by email that the item they have checked out has been recalled. The item must be returned by the date specified in the recall notification, usually within five days of the receiving notice. Items needed for Reserve will be recalled immediately.

Minimum Use
Borrowers will not receive recall notices for one week from the time of original check-out.

Fines
Failure to return a recalled item by the specified due date will result in a $5.00 per day fine. Fines will accumulate until the replacement cost of the item has been reached, or the item is returned.

Why do we have recalls?

The Whitman College Library lending periods are intended to allow scholars convenient long-term use of library materials. In order to assure reasonable access to the library’s collections for all users, the Library offers several responses to the competition for materials. Items known to be in heavy demand, especially for course assignments, should be placed on Reserve. Items on reserve have shorter loan periods, allowing wider access to materials.

Patrons needing items that are checked out may search the Summit catalog via Sherlock and request a copy from another institution (find out more about Summit borrowing).

If there is heavy demand for a title, please feel free to suggest that the Library acquire additional copies.

If you need an item that is checked out, you may recall the item using the Request for pickup at the circ desk button in the Penrose catalog. The current borrower is required to return the item within a short period.