Visitors & Community Members

Welcome to Cowles Library

Cowles Library offers a range of services, resources, and library cards to alumni, community members, and visitors. Our Information Desk staff is here to assist you in navigating our collections and making the most of our library's resources. Whether you're exploring our materials, need assistance with research or help finding your way around, we're ready to support your needs.

All guests of Cowles Library are expected to adhere to library policies, which can be found on our Policies page.

Visitor Access Cards

Visitors can access borrowing privileges and desktop computers by visiting the Information Desk with a valid government-issued photo ID. To be eligible, visitors must be at least 18 years of age. Our staff will be happy to assist you in setting up your account and ensuring you have everything you need to make the most of our library's offerings.

Types of Cards

• Drake Alumni, Emeritus, and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Drake Members get a free card that allows both computer use and borrowing privileges.
• Computer Access requires a free guest user card.
• Borrowing Privileges require a $20.00 annual, non-refundable fee and must be renewed every (1) year.

Please report any lost or stolen cards, and only use your own personal card to check out items or access computers.

Borrowing Materials

Visitors with a borrowing privileges library card, can check out materials. Visitors do not have Interlibrary Loan services through Cowles Library.

• 15 item limit

• Books have a four (4) week loan period

• DVDs, Blu-Rays, and vinyl records have a one (1) week loan period, with a maximum of 10 items.

Returns

Return items inside Cowles Library at the Information Desk or indoor book drop, or in the book drop outside the library's north entrance.

Lost or Damaged Items

If you lose something or damage it beyond repair, please notify circulation@drake.edu. Replacement charges apply to all guest users.

Computer Access

Computer stations are available for guest users. All users should review and understand the Computer Use Policy. Time on the computers is limited to two (2) hours, but can be extended based on need. Availability of computers is not guaranteed.

Printing

Cowles Library does not provide printing or copying services for guest users.