Library FAQ

Q: Do alumni have borrowing privileges?

A: Graduates of Ringling College of Art and Design have life-long borrowing privileges at Goldstein Library. They may check out up to 15 items at a time, excluding video games. Alumni can register at the Circulation Desk for a library card. 

Q: I am enrolled in the degree program or I am a Ringling employee. Can my spouse/partner/children use the Library?

A: Yes, spouses, partners and children 18 and over can get a library card. You can register them at the Circulation Desk anytime by filling out the appropriate form. 

Q: Can members of the community use the Library?

A: Yes. However, a Ringling ID is needed to enter the building. Visitors, including the public, alumni, and RCLA members, can schedule an appointment or drop-in Monday - Friday from 8:30am - 4:30pm. When you arrive, call (941) 359-7587 and a staff member will open the door.

Ringling College Library Association members in the community and Ringling College alumni have checkout privileges at Goldstein Library and can apply for a library card at the Circulation Desk. If you have specific research needs or wish to access special materials, please make an appointment prior to your visit by calling 941-359-7587 or emailing library@ringling.edu.

If you would like to learn more about RCLA, visit the Ringling College Library Association website. Individual RCLA memberships are $100.00 per year.

Ringling College of Art and Design is a private institution and reserves the right to limit access to Goldstein Library at its discretion.

Q: Can visitors get internet access on their laptops in the Library or on the Ringling campus?

A: Yes, the wireless network "Ringling College" should automatically greet all devices requesting a wireless connection while on campus.  Please see Wireless Networking on Campus for details. Please note that visitors do not have access to library computers, which require Ringling College credentials for use.

Q: Can I access the Library's electronic resources from on- or off-campus?

A: Students, faculty and staff may access the Library's electronic resources from either on- or off-campus by using their Ringling ID and password.  Due to our library vendor licensing agreements, alumni, trustees, members of the Ringling College Library Association (RCLA), local teachers, or Ringling family members do not have on- or off-campus access to the Library's electronic resources. 

Q: If I am a trustee, alumni, a member of the Ringling College Library Association (RCLA), family member of Ringling faculty or staff, or a local teacher, what borrowing privileges will I receive?

A: Alumni, members of the Ringling College Library Association (RCLA) or Ringling family members are able to borrow books, CDs, DVDs, and magazines from the collection. For more information on borrowing limits and policies please visit our Borrowing page.  

Please note: Interlibrary loan services are not available to alumni, Ringling College Library Association members, Ringling family members or local teachers.