Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I borrow library materials?

Registered borrowers may use library materials for one semester and are allowed one renewal. Chamber ensembles must fill out a Chamber Music form, available at the Library's Service Desk.

Can I renew my checked out materials from the Library?

Yes, materials can be renewed online by logging in to My Account, the light blue tab located near the top of the library's search screen. College students, faculty and staff follow these instructions. Preparatory/SCE students and alumni follow these instructions. Click the box to the left of the item(s) you want to renew, then click Request Renewal located at the top and bottom of your list.

Can I request an item that's been checked out?

Log in to My Account, the blue tab located near the top of the library's catalog, by following these instructions for college students, faculty and staff, and these instructions for Preparatory/SCE students and alumni. Search for the item in the catalog and click Make a request in the blue field on the right-hand side. Click Hold on the following screen. Next, make sure to choose New England Conservatory Service Desk as a pick-up location in the drop-down menu next to This Copy. Provide your 13 digit barcode located on the bottom left of your ID card, then click Submit.

What Is Interlibrary Loan?

InterLibrary Loan (ILL) is a service that allows you to request items that aren't available through Fenway Library Organization or the Virtual Catalog. Submit your email request by providing the following information. Please allow 2 to 6 weeks for delivery of materials.

What is FLO?

The Fenway Library Organization (FLO) consists of 9 nearby libraries, including NEC, that share a single online catalog. These library locations are displayed at the top of the search screen and in the item's location FLO materials may be requested and will be delivered to Blumenthal Family Library. College students and faculty may borrow from these libraries by presenting valid NEC identification. The lending library's borrowing rules will apply to all items checked out.

How can I request an item from another FLO library?

College students and faculty can request items from FLO libraries. Log in to My Account, the light blue tab located near the top of the library's search screen, by following these instructions. Search for the item in the catalog and click Make a request in the blue field on the right-hand side. Click Request from other library on the following screen. Next, make sure to choose New England Conservatory Service Desk as a pick-up location in the drop-down menu next to This Copy. Provide your 13 digit barcode located on the bottom left of your ID card, then click Submit.

Can I borrow books from other Massachusetts libraries outside of FLO?

College students and faculty may request items directly from many Massachusetts libraries through the Commonwealth Catalog. In the online catalog, click on the dark blue Commonwealth Catalog tab, located on the search screen. Enter your barcode and select New England Conservatory from the menu. Please allow 2 weeks for delivery of Commonwealth Catalog materials.

Why can't I find what I'm looking for?

There are several possible reasons.

1. The item is on class reserve at the front desk. This is indicated by its Temporary Location under "Holdings Information" in the gray box at the bottom of the screen.

2. The item has been checked out. This is also indicated under "Holdings Information" with its due date.

3. If the item hasn't been checked out and you still can't find it, it might have been misplaced. Ask a library staff member for assistance.