Rules and Regulations of Bahir Dar University Libraries

To ensure effective utilization of library resources and to maintain a conducive academic environment, all users of Bahir Dar University Branch Libraries are required to observe the following rules and regulations.

🪪 1. Library Membership and Access

  • 1.1. Library services are provided to registered students, academic staff, researchers, and authorized employees of Bahir Dar University.
  • 1.2. Users must present a valid university ID card to access library services and borrow materials.
  • 1.3. Library cards or IDs are non-transferable and must not be shared with others.
  • 1.4. External users may be allowed access with special permission from the Library Directorate.

📚 2. Use of Library Materials

  • 2.1. Library materials must be used within the library premises unless officially borrowed.
  • 2.2. Reference books, rare materials, theses, dissertations, and reserved items are not allowed for home borrowing, except with special authorization.
  • 2.3. Borrowed materials must be returned on or before the due date.
  • 2.4. Users are responsible for materials borrowed in their name.

📖 3. Borrowing Privileges

  • 3.1. The number of items and loan period shall be determined by the Library Directorate based on user category (undergraduate, postgraduate, staff).
  • 3.2. Borrowing rights may be suspended if materials are overdue or library rules are violated.
  • 3.3. Library materials must be returned before graduation, clearance, or staff resignation.

💻 4. Digital Library and Electronic Resources Use

  • 4.1. Digital library resources, including e-books, e-journals, databases, and institutional repositories, are provided for academic and research purposes only.
  • 4.2. Users must comply with license agreements and copyright laws when using electronic resources.
  • 4.3. Unauthorized downloading, copying, or commercial use of digital resources is strictly prohibited.
  • 4.4. Access to digital resources is primarily available through the University network and authorized platforms.

🤫 5. Conduct and Behavior in the Library

  • 5.1. Silence must be maintained at all times to ensure a conducive study environment.
  • 5.2. Mobile phones must be kept on silent mode within library premises.
  • 5.3. Eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing khat are strictly prohibited in the library.
  • 5.4. Users must respect library staff and fellow users.

🛡️ 6. Care and Protection of Library Property

  • 6.1. Users shall not damage, mark, tear, write on, or mutilate library materials.
  • 6.2. Any loss or damage of library property must be reported immediately to library staff.
  • 6.3. Bags and personal belongings may be subject to inspection when entering or leaving the library, in accordance with university security regulations.

⚠️ 7. Penalties and Fines

  • 7.1. Late return of borrowed materials shall result in fines determined by the University Library policy.
  • 7.2. Lost or seriously damaged materials must be replaced with the same or latest edition, or the user must pay the replacement cost as decided by the Library Directorate.
  • 7.3. Serious misconduct may lead to temporary or permanent suspension of library privileges and disciplinary measures according to University rules.

🎓 8. Library Clearance

  • 8.1. Library clearance is mandatory for students and staff during graduation, transfer, resignation, or contract completion.
  • 8.2. Clearance shall not be granted until all borrowed materials are returned and outstanding fines are settled.

⏰ 9. Library Opening Hours

  • 9.1. All Bahir Dar University Branch Libraries provide 24-hour library services (24/7) to support continuous learning and research.
  • 9.2. The libraries remain open seven days a week, including weekends.
  • 9.3. Libraries shall be closed during official University holidays and nationally recognized public holidays in accordance with Ethiopian government regulations.
  • 9.4. Changes to opening hours during special occasions, examinations, renovations, or emergencies shall be announced officially by the Library Directorate.
  • 9.5. Users are required to comply with security and service procedures during night and extended-hour access.

⚖️ 10. Authority and Amendments

  • 10.1. The Library Directorate has the authority to interpret, implement, and enforce these rules and regulations.
  • 10.2. The rules and regulations may be revised or updated in line with University policies and Ethiopian higher education directives.