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New York State Library

New York State Library Information

As of 1/1/2021, the New York State Library (NYSL) no longer provides access to Elsevier ScienceDirect journals.

Other collections continue to be available; to check title holdings please see Health and Medical Collection or Science Collection. The NYSL also provides access to several grant databases. Please apply for a NYSL Borrower's Card for direct access to resources at the NYSL.

NYSL Borrower's Card Application Information

New York State Library

How do I get a NYSL card?

  • The application form is available at http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/apply.htm.
  • To expedite the processing of your application, complete the form and either FAX, email or mail directly to the NY State Library. A photocopy of your Upstate ID is required. Please remember to sign the application.

How long will it take to get my card?

Turn around time is 3-4 weeks from the time the NYSL receives and processes your application.

Where do they send my card? Home or work?

If you are a NY State employee, the card will be mailed to the state work address provided on the application.  For Attorney, Physician or Historian applications, the card is mailed to your office. If you applied for a NY state resident card, the card is mailed to your home.

How long is my card valid, and how do I renew it?

Your NYSL card is valid for two years.  The NYSL will contact you directly with instructions for card renewals.

What if I lose my pin or card number?

Please complete the Borrower’s Card Number/PIN request form.

Research Foundation Employees and Upstate Medical University students (not grad students)

Research Foundation Employees and UMU students (not grad students) are ineligible for a NYSL card  that begins with a "P" number.

Research Foundation Employees submit article requests via the UPSTATE Medical  University Health Sciences Library - Interlibrary Loan/Document Delivery service ILLiad.

If you are a Research Foundation Employee, please include the information in the notes field within the ILLiad online Article Request form.

New York State Government Employees

Physicians who are NY State Residents

Graduate Studies

College of Graduate studies Graduate Assistants are eligible for a New York State Borrower's Card. Please contact Jennifer Brennan College of Graduate Studies  to complete your application.

About The Health Sciences Library

Contact us for additional help with using Library resources (databases, e-journals, e-books or interlibrary loan) and services (reference, library instruction, study rooms, etc.).