Closure of Library/Academic Commons to in-person users

Dear Oxy Community:

We are writing to update you on changes in access to the Library/CDLA and Academic Commons. In consideration of the well-being of Academic Commons users and staff, and to allow staff to focus exclusively on supporting faculty and students who will be participating in remote teaching and learning, the College has decided to close the Library/CDLA and Academic Commons to in-person users effective 5 p.m. today, Monday, March 16. This includes all faculty, students and staff (with the exception of staff or faculty who work in the building), as well as non-Oxy community members. Please note that essential library and technology services will remain available to support the transition to remote teaching and learning.  We will continue to monitor the situation closely and I will inform you as soon as the decision is made to reopen the facility for in-person use.

Many of the Oberlin Group of 80 liberal arts college libraries have now closed their libraries to users. Prominent among them are Bryn Mawr, Haverford, Middlebury, Swarthmore, and Williams. The Los Angeles Public Library system has also closed its branches.

Faculty can arrange for virtual meetings with subject and technology specialists this week to prepare for their classes. Visit libcal to make an appointment. We have updated the schedule of training sessions available this week with instructions for remote access. Find more information on all Library/CDLA resources and services. Please send any questions you might have to library@oxy.edu.

Thank you for your forbearance as we navigate these uncharted waters.

Take care,