About Self-Service

Frequently asked questions

A self-service machine

Do I need my library card to use the self-service machines?

Yes, it is essential that you have your library card (University of Dundee ID card) with you. If you have forgotten your card you will be unable to borrow, and if your card is lost, you should contact Registry for a new one. Unfortunately damaged cards may not be recognised by the self-service machines, and will also have to be replaced by Registry.

How do I borrow?

Take your books to one of the self-issue machines and follow the on-screen instructions. It is important that you wait until the process is complete before removing books from the machine, i.e. all the books are issued to you and security de-activated (text turns green on completion), otherwise you may set off the security alarms.

How do I return?

At the Main library, place books, one at a time, in either of the machines in the book return area. There is an external book return on the Cross Row side of the building.

At site libraries, return books in the self service kiosk and follow the on-screen instructions. Check the screen to make sure books have returned properly and then place books in the exceptions bin or on a trolley, as directed.

What do I do if I have placed a hold request on a book?

Items on hold are now available for collection on open shelves in the service area. They are filed by the first 4 letters of your surname and the last 4 digits of the barcode on the back of your library card. Use the self-service machines to issue and return.

Can I use the self-service machines for Short loans?

Yes - Short loans are also shelved in the service area so you can easily collect and issue them yourself - issue and return as above.

Can I use the self-service machines for Interlibrary Loans?

No - ILL items come from other libraries so are not compatible with our systems, but staff will be on hand to issue ILLs. For the same reasons, please also return ILLs to a member of staff.

Can I self-issue and return DVDs?

Yes, but when you issue a DVD, it is important to remember to unlock the security case using the "unlocker", which is situated on the other side of the security gates.

Can I return a 1 day or 5 day loan and then immediately re-issue the same copy?

No - as before, in order to give other students a chance to borrow high demand books, this is not possible - the self-service machines will not allow immediate re-issue of the same copy of a book.

Can I pay fines at the self-service machines?

Yes - all machines have the facility to take cash payments (notes and coins). Payment by card is available on one of the Main Library machines.
If you have fines of more than £15, you will be unable to borrow.
Please note, you can renew standard loans on the self-service machines - My Library card - and also online through the library catalogue, to avoid fines. Short, 1 day and 5 day loans cannot be renewed because they are high demand items.

Will I be issued with a receipt to show that I have paid my fines?

Yes, the machines will automatically print a receipt on payment of fines. Receipts are also available for issues, returns and renewals if you choose.

I am a University of Abertay student - can I use the self-service machines?

Yes, if you have already joined as a member, you can use your Abertay matriculation card. See Membership information for details of how to join.

I am a junior subscriber - can I use self-service?

Yes, if you have already joined, your Young Scot card will be recognised by the self-service machines. See Membership information for details of how to join.

Help

We hope you find the self-service machines easy to use, but if you need help:

On-screen instructions are displayed at each step on the self-service machines for you to follow.
Please ask a member of staff if you need any assistance.

Feedback is important to us so that we can continue to improve our services. If you have any comments or questions about self-service, please
email the Library