SHARES Program

What is SHARES?

Cornell students, faculty and staff can visit libraries at all SHARES partner institutions without making prior arrangements.  

  • Simply present your Cornell I.D. at any of the SHARES institutional libraries to gain access to the building.
  • Some restrictions apply; check the complete list of SHARES institutions and their local policies. 

What is the SHARES On-Site Borrowing Pilot Program?

In addition to accessing any of the SHARES Partner Institutions, a small number of SHARES libraries are offering the opportunity to create a library account and check out materials.  Partners in the pilot program are: Brandeis University, Cornell University, Northwestern University, Syracuse University, Temple University, University of California, Los Angeles, and Washington University in St. Louis.

Are you a Cornellian visiting a partner in the On-Site Borrowing Program?

  • Complete and submit the SHARES application online.
  • The Cornell Library Public Services Office will verify your status with Cornell and forward your application to the SHARES institution for which you plan to visit.
  • You will receive a confirmation email from the SHARES institution with details about when you can pick up your library card.

Are you visiting Cornell from a SHARES institution?

If you are planning to simply visit Cornell Library, all our buildings are open to the public.  No I.D. is required to enter.

If you are visiting from one of the On-Site Borrowing pilot institutions and would like to borrow materials from Cornell locally, follow the steps below to set up a Cornell library account.

  • Start the application process at your home institution.
  • Your home institution will submit your completed SHARES Reciprocal Borrowing Program Application to Cornell University.
  • Cornell will contact you directly when your SHARES application has been received and processed.
  • Visit the Library Public Services Office in 116 Olin Library, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • Present a government issued photo ID card (passport, driver’s license).
  • A Cornell Library Card will NOT be issued without an approved application from your home institution; please make arrangements with your library before coming to Cornell.
  • Your Cornell Library Card will:
    • Be valid for one year from the issuing date.
    • Allow physical access and borrowing of circulating books and DVDs at all Cornell libraries. 
    • Allow you to check out up to twenty items for 8 weeks with one renewal.
    • Items can be returned at either Cornell or your home institution’s library.