Course Reserves - Rush University

How the Electronic Reserves System works

The Library of RUSH University can create structured lists of catalog links to articles and electronic book chapters within our subscriptions; within the bounds of copyright compliance, PDF scans may also be hosted on a case-by-case basis. These lists can be integrated directly into the Canvas courses, which avoids the need for entering a separate password and creates a reading list directly in the Learning Management System. Each instructor who sets up Electronic Reserves for their course will also receive a password that students can use to access the e-reserves modules directly (link below).

Electronic Reserves are not automatically reopened for future terms. The Library keeps a version of each reserved article's citation in the system for future use, but contents of each module must be reviewed every term to assess relevance, check subscription status, and verify copyright compliance.

Faculty guidelines for placing articles in the e-reserves system

• If the Library subscribes to the e-journal or e-book, the Library will provide a link that will give students access with their RUSH username and password. If the Library does not own the article, it is expected that the instructor will provide a PDF or as clean a photocopy as possible for the library to scan into PDF format. The Library is not responsible for the quality of material scanned from photocopies provided by the instructor. 
• Electronic Reserves requests are processed in order of receipt. Reserve requests must be submitted to lib_reserves@rush.edu at least 1 week prior to the first day of class to guarantee the reading list will be fully built and integrated in time.
• Any and all documents stored in the Electronic Reserves database are protected under Copyright Laws of the United States (Title 17 U.S. Code) governing the making of photocopies of copyrighted material. It is the instructor's responsibility to secure permission to use material if it is so needed. For more information about copyright and course reserves, please see our guide about Use of Copyrighted Materials for RUSH University Courses.

• Please contact the Library Reserves staff at lib_reserves@rush.edu or by voicemail at (312) 942-2272 with any Reserves questions.

The Library of RUSH University Medical Center is able to reserve print books from our existing collection for short term loans when such texts are used as required reading for a course. Additionally, personal copies owned by faculty members can be cataloged into this category. The Library will also look into purchasing a copy of a text when possible, and accepts departmental donations of required textbooks.

Faculty Guidelines for Placing Books in the Print/Book Reserves Collection:

• To place an item on reserve, please fill out our Reserves Request form (bottom of page) or email lib_reserves@rush.edu. Incomplete forms may result in a delay in processing.
• If the Library of RUSH University Medical Center does not own a requested item, it may take up to 3 weeks to acquire it and prepare it for student access.
• Books from the collection placed on short term loan for Reserves will remain on reserve for the duration of the term. Books may not be placed on Reserve indefinitely, and will require a new request each term.
• The Library of RUSH University Medical Center cannot guarantee faculty personal copies against theft or damage, and they will be subject to standard library processing requirements. The disclaimer form (bottom of page) must be completed to add a personal copy to the Library Reserves.

Please contact the Library Reserves staff at lib_reserves@rush.edu or by voicemail at (312) 942-2272 with any Reserves questions.

Many frequently asked questions about e-reserves are answered on the library's FAQ and help topic page. Have questions or need assistance? Fill out the library's Ask a Question form. 

To place library-owned materials on reserve, please complete the online form below.

To place personal materials on reserve, bring the item(s) and a completed Reserve Personal Material Disclaimer Form to the Library Services Desk.