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Finding & Borrowing Material

Finding & Borrowing information for the Government Publications, Maps, Microforms & Newspapers (GMM) unit.

Finding Material

UW Libraries Search includes most, but not all, of the items in the Government Publications, Maps, Microform & Newspaper collections. Additional tools, guides, and indexes may also be needed to locate the materials needed for research. Contact the GMM help desk for more information.

    Borrowing Material

    In addition, these collections have special borrowing policies and conditions:

    Microforms & Newspapers

    • These collections only circulate through formal Interlibrary Loan (ILL) services and restrictions may apply. Faculty, students, and staff at UW Tacoma may make special arrangements to use microforms at UW Tacoma. Contact your UW Tacoma librarian for help.

    Maps

    • Most books, maps, air photos and digital products may be checked out from the Map Collection. Fragile and pre-1960 materials are library use only.
    • When checked out, flat maps are rolled and put into tubes. Other materials are put into folders or boxes.
    • Due to the size and nature of the materials, it is best to return checked out items to the Map Collection service desk.

    Handling Maps

    DO

    DONT
    • Locate materials by yourself. Open drawers and pull things out.
    • Do not hesitate to ask for help.
    • Leave materials on top of map cases or tables when you are finished.
    • Do not refile or reshelve.
    • Display using magnets, or clips that don’t pierce the paper–ask us for ideas.
    • Do not use pins or tape!
    • Please return items in the same container they were checked out in.
    • Do not add new folds or creases.