The Buchanan Library is here to help you succeed at Lethbridge Polytechnic. Whether you’re researching for a class, working on a project, or just need a quiet place to study, you’ll find resources, services, and people ready to support you.
We’re more than just books — we’re a hub that connects you with expert library staff and campus services like ITS, Accessibility Services, and Student Learning Services.
Quick Start Guide
New to the library or need a refresher? Start here for a quick look at the most-used services and how to get started.
- Start at the Library Service Desk
Your go-to spot for borrowing, research help, and getting connected to the right campus support. - Your Student ID = Your Library Card
Use your selfie ID card to borrow materials and access services. - Borrow Tech
Laptops and power banks available for short-term loan (4-hours). - Course Reserve & Borrow-a-Textbook Program
Access key course materials like textbooks, anatomy models, and calculators. - Books & Research Tools
Access academic databases, eBooks, and scholarly articles — ask us how! - Help from Integrated Librarians
We’re embedded in many courses — look for us in your class or reach out. - Study Spaces
Book individual or group rooms online or at the kiosks in the library.
Need books, a laptop, or a quiet spot to study? Here’s a quick look at what the library offers to support your learning.
Find Materials
- Access physical books, textbooks on reserve, and electronic resources for your assignments.
- Our staff and integrated librarians can help you search, evaluate, and cite sources.
Borrow Tech & Equipment
- Laptops and power banks (4-hour loan)
- Calculators
- Specialty course items (e.g., anatomical models, nursing kits)
Print, Scan, Photocopy
Print and Copy Prices
- Self-service stations are available in the library. Printing and copying charges are based on paper size and color selection, and are applied per side (e.g., a double-sided black and white letter print = $0.20). Scanning is free.
| Paper Size | Black & White | Colour |
| Letter (8.5x11) | $0.10 per side | $0.25 per side |
| Legal (8.5x14) | $0.15 per side | $0.35 per side |
| Tabloid (11x17) | $0.20 per side | $0.50 per side |
Use Library Computers
- Log in with your Lethbridge Polytechnic credentials for software, databases, and printing.
Use Kiosks
- Book study rooms and search the library catalogue using kiosks in the library.
Study Your Way
- Collaborative spaces
- Quiet rooms
- Relaxed seating between classes
Get one-on-one help with:
- Research strategies
- Finding credible sources
- Citation (APA and more)
Options:
- Meet with an integrated librarian (in person or online)
- Drop in, chat online, or book an appointment
Learn how borrowing works at the library — from what you can check out to when fines apply.
Borrowing Library Materials
- Registered students can borrow materials with their student ID or valid government-issued photo ID.
Fines
- There are no fines for late returns on the majority of the collection. An item may be considered lost if it is not returned within 30 days after its due date and the cost of the item will be added to the account – that cost is removed once the item is returned.
- Fines are levied for high-circulation items such as reserves or laptops. In the event that an account accrues more than $250 in fines or lost items, that account will be locked and the account holder will not be able to register for new classes, graduate, or check out new library materials.
Item | Loan period | Fees and fines |
General Collection: Books and DVDs | 3 weeks | Only on lost items until returned |
General Collection: Periodicals | 1 week | Only on lost items until returned |
Laptops and power banks | 4 hours | $1/hour |
Cable adapters | 4 hours | $1/hour |
Instructor reserve items | As specified by instructor (usually 2 hours or 1 day) | $1/hour or $1/day |
Textbook reserve items | 2 hours | $1/hour |
Renewals
- Books – May be renewed twice before the due date (overdue items cannot be renewed)
- Laptops & Reserve items – No renewals due to high demand
Discover how to access research tools from off campus and expand your borrowing privileges with the Alberta Library Card.
Off-Campus Access
Use your Lethbridge Polytechnic email and password to access:
- Databases
- eBooks
- Streaming video
- Other online tools
The Alberta Library Card
If your account is in good standing, get a free Alberta Library Card at our service desk to borrow materials from 300+ Alberta libraries, including:
Library staff can help with basic troubleshooting and point you in the right direction, but for most tech or account issues, the ITS Help Desk is your go-to.
Password resets / locked accounts
- Library staff cannot reset passwords or unlock accounts.
- Try the Self-Service Password Reset Tool to reset your password online.
- If you’re still locked out, visit the ITS Help Desk (located in the library, CE1340F).
ITS Help Desk (in the library)
The ITS Help Desk provides support with:
- Canvas issues
- Password or account problems
- Wi-Fi and login help
- Hardware/software troubleshooting
Need help but not sure where to go? Ask us at the Library Service Desk, and we’ll help guide you.
Several key student services are located right inside the library, making it easy to get academic, accessibility, and tech support when you need it.
Student Learning Hub (CE1341)
- Accessibility Services
Support with accessible formats and academic accommodations - Student Learning Services
Writing help, tutoring, and academic coaching available right in our space
Also On-Site
- ITS Help Desk (CE1340F)
Help with Wi-Fi, account login, printing, and tech troubleshooting - Just Ask!
Drop by, chat online, or email us — if we don’t know the answer, we’ll help you find it
Library Hours
To see current and upcoming hours, including holiday closures and special dates: