Because the Library can obtain through its standard purchasing procedures virtually any materials of interest to faculty, we strongly discourage faculty from making purchases for the Library collection without prior approval.

The Library orders materials from foreign and domestic suppliers, out of print dealers and large and small media distributors on a regular basis, so items of interest may already be held in the Library’s collection.

Instead, faculty are advised to do the following:

1. Search the Library Catalog to determine whether the material is in the collection.
2. If the Library does not own a copy of the item, submit a Purchase Request.
   NOTE: Please allow 6-8 weeks for the item to be ordered, shipped, and cataloging.

REIMBURSEMENT POLICY

We realize that opportunities arise where faculty wish to purchase materials outside of the normal acquisitions process, to be reimbursed at a later time. This may occur during conferences, domestic and international travels, or limited screenings and/or performances where onsite purchasing is available. The following procedures are applicable and will be strictly enforced:

1. Discuss your purchasing plans in advance with the Head of Collection Management and your Library liaison. If approved, a spending limit will be imposed; in addition, a method to verify that requested items are not duplicates must be arranged in advance. Duplicate materials will not be reimbursed.



2. Immediately prior to purchase contact the Acquisitions Librarian at (312)344-7902 to verify that the title is not in the collection, or on order.



3. Please alert suppliers that your purchase is tax-exempt and should be shipped by “library book rate” if applicable. If a tax-exempt letter is needed, please contact the Acquisitions Librarian at (312)344-7902.



4. Bring all materials and receipts directly to the Acquisitions Librarian for processing. If the items are being shipped, they should be sent to:
   
   Columbia College Chicago Library
   Attn: Acquisitions Librarian
   624 S. Michigan Ave.
   Chicago, IL 60605

The Library will assume regular UPS / Air Mail (international) shipping charges. FED-EX or other expedited mail charges will be the responsibility of the faculty member or academic unit.

This policy is designed to ensure that the Library does not purchase duplicate materials and provides sufficient funding for library requests. Your cooperation is appreciated.