Course Reserve for academics

Reserve is a service the library provides in which essential course readings are placed on reserve (2 hour loan) or an electronic copy linked through the catalogue. This ensures students will always have access to their course readings throughout the unit of study.

Reserve Request form

What items can I place on Reserve?


  • Journal articles
  • Book chapters
  • Web sites
  • Books from our collection
  • Journal articles not held by University of Sydney
  • Private copies of texts

Note: Availability of online readings is subject to legal copyright compliance.

Can I order new material for Reserve?


  • We can order new material and multiple copies of items depending on the number of students enrolled in a Unit of Study. We will order 1 copy per 30 students to a maximum of 5 copies (higher numbers can be negotiated through your Faculty Liaison Librarian)
  • To order new items, please use the coursework material order form

Please be aware that ordering material may take several weeks depending on location and publisher stocks.

What information do you need to provide?


  • Full citation details for each book or journal article
  • Name and code of the Unit of Study
  • Number of students enrolled
  • Name and contact details for the course coordinator and/or the lecturer

Where do I send my Reserve lists?


  • Hard copy lists:
    • Send hard copies to the library at which you wish items to be placed on reserve
  • Electronic lists:

When should I send my Reserve lists?

As early as you can, prior to semester starting. This will help ensure that the items on your list are ready for your students at the beginning of semester.

Need more information?

Please contact your Faculty Liaison Librarian to find out how we can help you with reserve.