General information

Watcard as library card

In order to borrow WLRC library items you need to have a Watcard. Your card is automatically registered with the Library. Your Watcard allows you to:

  • Request, sign out and renew books in PRIMO, the library search interface
  • Access UW electronic journals, books and indexes from off-campus
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Visit and use other university libraries within Canada
  • Keep your contact information updated via Quest

Computer labs

Computers are located in the Witer Learning Resource Centre. The Optometry building has wireless access – We also have instructions in the WLRC for connecting your laptop.

Nexus printing and photocopying

Nexus Printing Information and Instructions

The Nexus printer is in the WLRC. You will need to put money onto your Watcard in order to print from the Nexus computers. A Watcard Swipe Station is located in the WLRC to transfer money from your Watcard to your printing account.

A photocopier is available for use in the WLRC, you will also need your watcard to photocopy.

WLRC study rooms

We have 7 group study rooms that can be booked by optometry students only for groups of three or more. Sign up is required per hour at the circulation desk.

Borrowing policies

Loan Periods

Optometry students may borrow an unlimited number of books for a term at a time (due dates for the next term are announced towards the end of the current term). This does not include reserve, reference or controlled access materials.

Borrowing from TUG Libraries in person

Your WatCard can be used at any of the TUG libraries to borrow circulating books directly.

Returning library items

If possible please return your WLRC library items to our book bin or circulation desk. You also have the option of returning your items to the other locations.

Please note: Reserve items must be returned to the circulation desk.

Name release

Waterloo Library practice is to keep confidential your name, address, telephone number, and the title of books that you have borrowed. In order to diminish having resources recalled you may waive your right to confidentiality by authorizing the library to give your name, phone number and/or email address, to a Library user who indicates a need to consult books which you have borrowed.

To sign up for this service, please fill out the following form

Library fines

All overdue material is subject to fines as follows:

  • Reserve Overdues
    Items on loan for 1 or 3 hours - 5 cents per minute to a maximum of $100 per item.
    Items on loan for 1 or 3 days - $20 per day to a maximum of $100 per item.
  • Recalled Material
    $1.00 per day after the recall due date to a maximum of $30 per item.
  • All Other Materials
    25 cents per day to a maximum of $15 per item.

Other penalties and sanctions may apply.

Research help

Need help with your research? Please email us or call us at (519) 888-4005.