Plans are underway to implement new security measures at the University of Houston M.D. Anderson Library.

Soon, visitors will find new gates located near the main entrance to the library. Students, faculty and staff will gain access beyond the lobby by swiping their Cougar Card in a card reader at the turnstiles, allowing entry for individuals to pass through. Additionally, arrangements will be made so visitors without a Cougar Card can still access the library. During the upcoming winter break, preparation for the installation of the gates will begin. The gates are set to be installed over the spring holiday week of March 9–14, 2020, and are scheduled for activation during summer 2020.

The additional layer of security is part of the University’s plan to enhance student and public safety on campus while maintaining accessibility for all. M.D. Anderson Library welcomes thousands of visitors every day. While the majority are UH students, borrowers from across the state, international scholars, campus tour groups and K-12 students also visit the library.

“Everyone is welcome in our library,” said dean of UH Libraries Lisa German. “As a research library at a Tier One public research institution, we have a mission to provide resources, services and spaces for our students and for the community at large. Security and accessibility are paramount.”

For more information on campus safety, visit Cougar S.A.F.E.