FAQ

Clapp Library Renovation Project: Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When will Clapp Library be closed?

Clapp Library closed after finals in December 2023 and is expected to reopen for the start of the Fall 2025 semester. The building will be completely closed during construction, and all library materials have been removed.

Q. Where can I access the services housed in Clapp Library during the renovation?

Most LTS services previously in Clapp have moved to the Modulars and will continue to be offered. However, there will be differences in the way certain services will be offered. Please see the Services at a Glance list for more details.

Q. Now that Clapp Library is closed, how do I find the materials I need?

Some materials are located in the Modular buildings:

    • The lounge in M406 has some recreational reading, current periodicals, magazines, newspapers, and our zine collection.
    • M303 has a circulating collection of books, as well as issues of the Legenda and Wellesley News.
    • M301 has reference materials.
    • M103 has our reserve reading collection.

We suggest that you submit an ILL request for materials that are marked in the catalog as “Remote Storage”.

Library staff will continue to purchase new materials throughout the renovation period. Please complete the Suggest a Purchase form to request new materials, including videos for video e-reserves.

Q. How will Reserves work now that Clapp Library is closed?

Students:

    • Our physical reserve service for classroom support will continue to be offered, with standard 3-hour checkouts for students in Room M103 of the Modulars.

Faculty:

    • Request physical reserve materials for the Spring 2024, Fall 2024, and Spring 2025 semesters using this form.
    • Faculty can also place a purchase request or contact their subject specialist to see whether an ebook might be available.
    • If you have existing reserves lists for classes you know you’ll be teaching during the closure, you can send them to reserves@wellesley.edu.

Interlibrary Loan 

    • ILL services will continue to be offered as usual. All ILL materials can be picked up in Room M103 of the Modulars during open hours and returned either to the Modulars or to the Art or Music Libraries in Jewett.

Q. Where can I return books when Clapp Library is closed for renovation?

    • While Clapp Library is closed, you can return all books, including ILL items, to the Art Library, the Music Library, Room M103 in the Modulars, or the blue return box outside of the north entrance to the Modulars.

Q. Can I still access the Archives when Clapp Library is closed?

    • While most of the Archives materials are stored offsite, we have some collections and a classroom in the Modulars room M101. 
    • If what you are looking for is on campus, you can access it in the Modulars. Please note that you will need an appointment to access all materials.  You will have to contact archives@wellesley.edu to make an appointment.
    • Materials can be retrieved from storage if necessary, but this requires advanced planning.
    • Contact archives@wellesley.edu with any questions or to schedule a classroom or student org visit.

Q. Can I still use Special Collections during the Clapp Library renovation?

Q. Where are thesis carrels located?

    • Thesis carrels have been relocated to other locations on campus. All thesis carrel holders have been contacted with their new carrel locations.

Q. Can I still access the Help Desk during the Clapp Library renovation?

    • Yes. Email helpdesk@wellesley.edu, call 781-283-3333, or visit in-person in the Modulars Room M104.

 Q. Who can I contact if I have further questions?

    • Send email to helpdesk@wellesley.edu or askus@wellesley.edu for library questions.