Overview
W&M students, faculty, and staff may request the recall of books or DVDs that are currently checked out to another patron. Items on Course Reserve cannot be recalled.
When an item is recalled, its due date is changed to four weeks from the recall date. The patron who has the item checked out will receive an email notification titled "Due Date Change for Item(s)," informing them that an has been recalled. If the item is already due in fewer than four weeks, the due date will not change.
If recalled materials are not returned by the revised due date, the borrower will be charged non-refundable replacement costs, which include the item's list price plus a $20.00 processing fee per item.
How to place a recall
Recalls are placed the same way as standard requests. To recall a book or DVD, search for the item in the library catalog and submit a request.
Steps:
- Search for the item in the library catalog.
- Click the item title in the results to view request options.
- Under "Find & Request," select "Sign In" (choose William & Mary and login with your W&M credentials, if prompted).
- Click "Request."
- Select a pickup library and click "Send Request."
You will receive an email notification when the item is ready for pickup. Items are held for 7 days after notification.
Note: Depending on how items are cataloged, you may not be able to select a specific library's copy when placing a request. See the Recall FAQs below for guidance.
Other ways to get the material
If you need an item that is checked out, or if an item you have has been recalled, you may also:
- Request through Interlibrary Loan (ILL): Delivery times and loan periods vary by lending library.
- Borrow from Williamsburg Regional Library: W&M students, faculty, and staff are eligible for a free WRL library card.
- Use a Virtual Library of Virginia (VIVA) consortium library: Items may be available through participating VIVA partner libraries, subject to their lending policies.
Questions?
If you have questions about recalls or your library account, please contact the Circulation Desk at swcirc@wm.edu or (757)221-3072.
- Recall FAQs
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Why did my due date change?
Another patron requested the item, which shortened the loan period in accordance with the library's recall policy.
Will I be notified if my item is recalled?
Yes. Borrowers receive an email notification titled "Due Date Change for Item(s)" when an item they have checked out is recalled.
How much time do I have to return a recalled item?
The due date is adjusted to four weeks from the recall date, unless the item was already due sooner.
Can I renew a recalled item?
No. Recalled items cannot be renewed.
What happens if I don't return it on time?
Unreturned recalled items are billed for non-refundable replacement costs, including the item's list price plus a $20 processing fee.
Why can't I choose which library's copy I'm requesting?
Some items owned by multiple W&M libraries are grouped together in the catalog, while others are listed as separate records. Depending on how the item is cataloged, you may not be able to select a specific library's copy when placing a request.
If you need a copy from a specific W&M library (such as Law Library or CW's Rockefeller Library), please contact the Circulation Desk for assistance.
Can I still get the item another way?
Yes. See Other ways to get the material above for alternatives such as Interlibrary Loan or partner libraries.
I didn't see the email; am I still responsible for returning the item?
Yes. Borrowers are responsible for monitoring due dates in their library account, even if email notifications are missed or filtered.