FAQs

Who can enter the library?

Bonafide members of Assam University, including regular students, research scholars, project-related staff, permanent and contractual employees, ex-employees and family members of employees, may enter the library. Other persons require permission from the Librarian.

Do I need to carry my ILS Card?

Yes. All members must show their Identity cum Library Smart Card (ILS) at the security desk.

Do I have to sign the register?

Yes. Members and visitors must legibly enter all required details in the register provided at the entrance.

What items can I carry inside the library?

Only loose sheets, wallet, mobile phones, laptops, tablets and valuable items are permitted inside. Other personal belongings must be kept at the property counter.

What should I do if I lose my TOKEN?

Report the loss immediately to the security staff. Belongings will be handed over only after proper identity verification. A charge of ₹200 applies for loss of the TOKEN.

How do I become a library member?

Eligible members must complete and sign the membership registration form available at the Membership Section. After verification, an ILS Card is issued according to the member's category.

Do students and research scholars need to renew membership?

Yes. Students and research scholars have to renew their library membership every year by paying the prescribed library fees.

What should I do if I lose my ILS Card?

Report the loss immediately in writing to the Librarian in the prescribed format along with a copy of the FIR. A fine of ₹500 is charged for re-issue of a new card.

When is a Library Clearance Certificate required?

A clearance certificate is issued after returning all borrowed books and surrendering the ILS Card. It is required for final results, award of MPhil/PhD or other degrees, superannuation, resignation and transfer of employees.

How many books can I borrow?

Students: 4 books / 30 days
Research Scholars: 8 books / 30 days
Faculty: 20 books / 60 days
Officers: 10 books / 30 days
Staff: 5 books / 30 days

Can someone else use my ILS Card to borrow books?

No. The ILS Card is not transferable. Members must personally present their ILS Card at the circulation counter.

Can I renew an issued book?

Yes. A book can be renewed only once, provided the renewal request is made within the due date and the book has not been reserved by another member.

Can I reserve a book?

Yes. A member may reserve up to 2 books through WebOPAC. If the book is not issued within 2 days of intimation, the reservation may be forfeited.

What happens if I return a book late?

An overdue fine may be imposed. The rules prescribe ₹1 per day for students, research scholars, faculty and staff.

What happens if I lose or damage a book?

The borrower must replace the book or bear the prescribed replacement cost: twice the cost if the book is less than 5 years old, three times if more than 5 years old, and four times if the book is out of print.

Which library materials cannot be borrowed?

Reference Books, Journals, Bound Periodicals, Newspapers, Theses, Dissertations, Rare Books, Audio-Visual Materials and CD/DVDs are not issued.

What is a Gate Pass?

A Gate Pass is issued by the Circulation Counter for each book issued to a member. It must be presented along with the book to the security personnel for verification.

What should I do if I notice damage to a book?

Check the physical condition of the book at the time of checkout and immediately report any mutilation or damage to the Circulation In-charge.

Can I rearrange books on the shelves?

No. Books picked from the stacks should not be replaced by members. If a book is not being issued, it should be left on the reading table.

Can journals and periodicals be borrowed?

No. Periodicals are for consultation. Photocopying may be permitted with permission.

Can I photocopy library materials?

Only library materials may be photocopied inside the library on payment of the prescribed fee. Reference Books, Theses, Dissertations and Rare Books are not allowed for photocopying.

What can I check through WebOPAC?

WebOPAC can be used to check the availability of books, journals and theses. Registered members can also check circulation history, reserve books, update personal data and change their password.

What if I forget my WebOPAC password?

The WebOPAC password can be reset on written request by the member.

Why should I keep my email and mobile number updated?

An updated email ID and mobile number are required as part of the member information maintained by the library.

Can I access electronic theses and e-journals through WebOPAC?

Yes. The full text of AUS e-theses can be accessed through Shodhganga via WebOPAC, and subscribed e-journals can also be accessed through WebOPAC.

What are the Reading Hall timings?

Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday & Vacations: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday & Holidays: Closed

What are the Circulation timings?

Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday & Vacations: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday & Holidays: Closed

What are the E-Library timings?

Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday & Vacations: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday & Holidays: Closed

When is the Photocopying Service available?

Photocopying Service is available from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays.

What are the basic conduct rules?

Silence must be maintained. Mobile phones must be kept on vibration mode and calls are not permitted inside the library building. Smoking, spitting, photography and food items are not allowed.

Can I underline or mark pages in library books?

No. Underlining, marking, folding pages and similar acts of alteration are strictly prohibited.

Should I check WebOPAC before browsing the stacks?

Yes. Members are advised to check document availability through WebOPAC before physically browsing the stacks.

What happens if I violate library rules?

A member may forfeit library admission and membership privileges. Misconduct, abuse of staff, tearing or stealing books and mutilation of books may result in suspension and further disciplinary action.

Who can use the E-Library Internet facility?

The Internet facility is restricted to registered Rabindra Library members. Outsiders are not permitted to use the facility.

How long can I use the E-Library Internet facility?

The maximum browsing time is 1 hour per session under normal accessibility conditions.

What Internet activities are prohibited?

Social networking, e-commerce sites, torrents, YouTube, downloading music or videos and other prohibited activities are not permitted. Internet use should support academic and research activities.

Can I install software on E-Library computers?

No. Members must not install software that has not been specifically approved by the Library or attempt to bypass system restrictions.

Can I download or copy copyrighted material?

Members must not engage in unauthorized copying of copyright-protected materials and are expected to comply with relevant copyright laws and regulations.

How can I submit feedback or suggestions?

Feedback forms are available at the Security Desk and may be submitted through the Feedback Box. Online feedback is also available through email.