What is Summit?
Summit borrowing gives you access to books and materials from the 38 college and university libraries of the Orbis Cascade Alliance, spread across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. When you click “Search our Collections” (above) to search the library catalog, you are also browsing materials from those 38 libraries that can be requested and shipped to campus for your use in just a few days. When searching, be sure to “sign in” to see all options, including Summit.
At any point, if you encounter any issues or have questions about a Summit item or the Summit request process, don’t hesitate to reach out at the Library Help Desk: 503-352-1400, library chat, or libraryhelp@pacificu.edu. We can provide guidance and support throughout the process!
Who can use Summit?
All Pacific University students, staff, and faculty have access to Summit materials by request through the catalog, or in-person at the other 37 consortium libraries.
Using Summit
When searching the catalog, make sure to log in to see all options. When you find the item you are looking for, if it is not available at Pacific University look for the “Request from Summit libraries” link. Click the link to request the item, choose your pick-up location, and submit. You will receive an email in a few days when your item arrives, and is available for pick up at either the Tran (Forest Grove) or Hillsboro Campus Libraries.
- If you are logged in and do not see a Summit link, you can still request the item through Interlibrary Loan (ILL); visit this page for more information on ILL services.
- Distance Learners, your process is a little different, please start here.
How long does it take to get a request from Summit?
Delivery time can vary based on several factors, including how far the material is travelling to get here, but usually we receive the item in 3-5 days.
How long can I keep it?
Summit materials check out for an initial period of 12 weeks. Most items can be renewed for one additional period of 6 weeks. Be sure to renew before the due date! Checking your due dates and renewing materials can be done from your library account.
How long will I have to pick it up?
Requests are available for pick-up for 7 days after they arrive. After the 7-day period, unclaimed requests will be returned to the lending Summit library to make them available for other users. If you need an extra day or two to pick up your item we can usually accommodate that; reach out to the Library Help Desk: 503-352-1400, library chat, or libraryhelp@pacificu.edu.
Checking out Summit items in-person at other institutions
Need that book tomorrow, and the only place it is available is PSU? You are welcome to go check out materials in-person at other Orbis Cascade Alliance libraries! Bring your Boxer ID card, and be prepared to log into your Pacific Libraries account. They will set you up with a local account referred to as a “Visiting Summit” account. You can also return Pacific and/or Summit materials to other Alliance libraries.