Library Policies / FAQ

Our Mission

The Rio Salado College Library provides convenient, equitable access to a wide selection of high-quality print and electronic resources, utilizing both traditional and non-traditional formats. Through a single gateway, employing a combination of innovative and cutting-edge delivery methods, we provide a supportive learning environment for the Rio Salado learning community. We foster lifelong learning and information literacy skills for all of our students, customers and employees.

Rio Salado Students and Faculty

• How do I get a library card?
• What is available to me in the Rio Library?
• How do I get a password for the online magazines and e-books?
• How long is the checkout period?
• Can I request books and videos online?
• Can I request materials that you do not have in the Rio Library?
• Can library materials be mailed to me?
• Do I need to come to the library to return my materials?
• What happens if I don't return my materials on time?

Distance Learning Course Materials

• What are distance learning materials?
• How do I get distance learning materials?
• How long may I keep distance learning materials?
• How do I return my distance learning materials?
• What happens if I do not return my distance learning materials?

Community Borrowers

• Can a resident of the community obtain a library card?
• What types of material can a community borrower check out?
• Can a community borrower request materials from other libraries?

Rio Salado Students and Faculty

How do I get a library card?

Your student ID is your library card. The Maricopa Username/MEID number is your library card number. For information on student ID cards, please see the following link: http://www.riosalado.edu/id/Pages/default.aspx

What is available to me in the Rio Library?

Books, DVDs and CDs (through the library online catalog, require a student ID to check out)
Online articles (online subscription databases, require MEID username/password)
E-books (full-text electronic books, require MEID username/password)

How do I get a password for the online magazines and e-books?

Logging into the library databases is the same as logging into an online RioLearn class. Review the instructions at this link: Library login help.

How long is the checkout period?

Can I request library books and videos online?

Yes, you may request library books and  DVDs by using the  item request option in the Online Library Catalog.

Can I request materials that you do not have in the Rio Library?

Yes, you may request up to 5 books at one time from any of the other Maricopa Community College libraries through the online catalog. You have the option of requesting where you would prefer to pick up these books--at any of the community college libraries or at the Rio sites.

Interlibrary loan service is also available for books and articles that are not owned by the Maricopa Community College Libraries.  Requests may be placed online by using this ILL request form . You will need your student ID to request items. Call the Rio Library at 480-517-8424 if you need help in filling out the online form

Can library materials be mailed to me?

Books and DVDs belonging to the Rio Library can be mailed to your home address if you live outside the Greater Phoenix area. You can request that Items be sent to any convenient Maricopa Community College library or the Rio sites for pickup.

Do I need to come to the library to return my materials?

You may return your library materials at the Rio Library, or at the drop box which is located in the parking lot of the Rio Salado College Tempe site. You may also return items  to any of the Maricopa Community College Libraries or Rio Salado College sites. Please request a receipt when returning items in person. You may also mail your materials back to the library.

Exception: Distance Learning Materials MUST be returned to Rio Salado College or any of the Rio satellite sites, or mailed in the postage-paid envelope provided.

What happens if I don't return my materials on time?

Overdue notices are sent out as a courtesy reminder. Please return materials by the due date.
Library materials that are not returned after 30 days are considered lost, and these items will be billed to you at the list price. Student records and grades will be placed on hold until the materials are returned or paid for. Bills for non-returned materials may be submitted for collections.

Distance Learning Course Materials

What are distance learning materials?

Distance learning materials are DVDs and CDs which are used for instruction in distance courses.

How do I get distance learning materials?

Your distance learning materials will be mailed to you automatically by the library after you have paid for your course.

How long may I keep distance learning materials?

Distance learning materials are checked out to you for the duration of your course, and must be returned at the end of your course. If you receive an extension for your course, call the Rio Salado Library at 480-517-8424 or e-mail us to request a renewal.

How do I return my distance learning materials?

You may return your distance learning materials by mail in the postage-paid envelope provided with the items, or when you come in-person to take your final exam. You may also return your distance learning materials at any of the Rio Salado College sites, or in the drop box located in the parking lot at the Rio Salado College Tempe site. For your protection, please obtain a receipt if materials are returned in person.

What happens if I do not return my distance learning materials?

Overdue notices are sent out via email as a courtesy reminder. Please return materials by the due date. If you do not respond, a bill will be sent for replacement cost of the materials. Also, your name will be placed on a District-wide fee restricted list prohibiting you from registering or receiving a transcript. Bills for non-returned materials may be submitted for collections.

Community Borrowers

Can a resident of the community obtain a library card?

Yes, current residents of Maricopa County  are eligible to receive a library card from the Rio Salado Library. Community borrowers must be over 18 years of age and not currently attending a Maricopa Community College. You must present a photo ID at the Rio Library Circulation Desk to obtain a library card.

What types of material can a community borrower check out?

Community borrowers may check out a maximum of 3 books for 21 days.

Can a community borrower request materials from other libraries?

Yes, community borrowers may request up to  3 books through the Maricopa Community College Libraries' Online Catalog. Books may be picked up at the Rio Salado Library or at any of the Rio Salado College sites.