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Basic Semi-formal Commonly tested

Course Reserve

noun phrase

Pronunciation: /ˈkɔrs rɪˈzɜrv/

A library service that sets aside materials requested by instructors for specific courses, making them available for limited checkout periods to enrolled students. These materials support classroom instruction and are managed separately from general circulation.

Plain English

Books and articles that professors place in the library for their students to borrow for short periods.

Etymology & History

Origin languageEnglish
Rootcourse (from Latin cursus, running) + reserve (from Latin reservare, to keep back)
First recorded use1920s
Usage frequencyCommon

Usage

"The instructor placed ten textbooks on course reserve for her biology students."

Style guide notes: Capitalize as 'Course Reserve' when referring to the specific service, lowercase 'course reserve materials' when general.

Also known as

instructor reserve academic reserve classroom materials collection

Contrasted with

open stacks general circulation

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can students borrow course reserve materials?

Typically 2-4 hours in-library or overnight, depending on institutional policy and material type.

Who decides what materials go on course reserve?

The course instructor requests materials they want reserved for their specific class.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Important for circulation and reference librarians managing course materials and faculty partnerships.

Required skill level: Junior

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