Library Reserves Lab Coats

Safety, Health, and Sustainability has parnered with the University Library to provide lab coats for students to borrow through Library Reserves. This service supports students enrolled in lab‑based courses by reducing out‑of‑pocket costs for required safety gear.

Lab coats are available for checkout at the Library 3rd Floor Checkout Desk during the semester (while supplies last). 

• Borrow for: 16 weeks
• Cost: Free
• Replacement fee (if lost): $45
• Renewals: No
• Sizes: XXS–XXL (specific sizes and quantities may vary)
• Pickup & Return location: Library Circulation Desk (3rd floor), during regular hours
• Who can borrow: Currently enrolled CSUSM students
• Availability: Lab coats are first‑come, first‑served based on what is currently in circulation.
• Cleaning: Coats are professionally laundered after item is returned and between semesters

FAQ

• Who can borrow a lab coat from the library?
  Lab coats are available to CSUSM students who are enrolled in eligible science courses. Faculty and staff may also request them for instructional purposes.
• How do I check out a lab coat?
  You can borrow a lab coat at the 3rd floor Library Circulation Desk. Just bring your student ID!
• How long can check out the lab coat?
  Lab coats are available for check out for the duration of the semester, 16 weeks. Library Circulation staff will confirm the due date when you borrow one.
• Do I need to return the lab coat at the end of the semester?
  Yes! Lab coats must be returned to the Library by the due date to avoid fines & fees.
• Is there a fee for borrowing a lab coat?
  There is no fee for borrowing a lab coat. However, if the coat is lost or damaged, you may be charged a replacement fee of $45.
• Can I reserve a lab coat in advance
  At this time, lab coats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend checking availability early in the semester.
• Are the lab coats cleaned between uses?
  Yes. All lab coats are professionally cleaned before being reissued.
• What lab coat sizes are available?
  We offer a range of sizes, generally from XXS to XXL. However, availability may vary since these lab coats were previously used for a different program and were then donated for student use. 
• Can I personalize or alter the lab coat?
  No. Lab coats must remain in their original condition for safety and reuse purposes.
• Why is the library offering lab coats?
  The library provides lab coats to support students enrolled in courses that require protective clothing for laboratory work. This service helps maintain safety and hygiene standards in designated lab spaces.
• Why is Safety, Health, & Sustainability collaborating with the Library Reserves on student lab coats?
  Our partnership with the CSUSM Library Reserves allows us to repurpose and reuse lab coats, assisting with proper PPE, reducing waste and supporting campus sustainability goals. This means sizes and quantities may vary, but it helps us keep the program eco-friendly.