Visitor Policies

Access Update for Community Members

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wardman Library had restricted building access, with guidance from Whittier College's administration. Presently, we are gradually expanding access to accommodate patrons and visitors beyond our current students, faculty, and staff.  

Whittier College Alumni can now make a reservation to visit.  The reservation must be made 24 hours prior to the visit so staff can confirm alumni status.  

Please contact us at library@whittier.edu with any questions or concerns.

Borrowing Privileges

Individuals who wish to use the general library collection may apply for a Courtesy Card. Courtesy cards enable non-Whittier College users to check out materials from the Library but do not confer printing and copying privileges, interlibrary loan services, or off-campus database access. The annual fee for courtesy cards is $75 per individual, or $125 for a shared card for married couples and domestic partners. Courtesy card holders may check out up to 3 books and/or DVDs at one time.

The following patrons are entitled to a free courtesy card, which expires one year after it is issued: 

  • Whittier-area teachers with proof of their institutional affiliation
  • Whittier College and Whittier Law School alumni
  • John Greenleaf Society members

For more about courtesy cards and non-Whittier College user expectations, please consult our Non-Whittier College Users & Courtesy Cards policy document.

Please note: At present ONLY Whittier College Alumni may enter the building but courtesy card holders who are not alumni may request a book be pulled. Library staff will check the book out to the card holder and have it available for pick-up.

Wifi Access

Wardman Library provides visitor wi-fi access on a selective basis through the “Visitor” network. Access is limited to the following non-College patrons:

  • Wardman Library Courtesy Card holders
  • Current Whittier College students’ family members
  • Whittier College and Whittier Law School alumni
  • John Greenleaf Whittier Society members

To obtain wi-fi access as a visitor, please visit the Circulation Desk between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. and ask to speak with a Library Services Specialist.