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http://metro.org/referral-cards/

Referral Cards

The METRO Referral Card system helps libraries to expand access for users to other collections and resources. This program makes it easier for students and researchers to locate desired materials or research topics of interest.

The METRO Referral Card system includes two user options:
  • The Yellow Card makes it possible for users to search for a specific book or other item.
  • The Blue Card allows users to search across entire subjects at other libraries.
How to use the METRO Yellow Card for single title referrals:
The Yellow Card gives users from one METRO member library access to individual titles available through other participating member library collections. Cards are available from participating METRO member libraries. To access this program, users must:
  • Verify that the desired title is not available in your library or in the public library system.
  • Identify a library holding the title, which can be completed using library search tools such as OCLC, WorldCat, Docline, or related resources.
  • Check the library's listing in the METRO Directory of Members for access restrictions.
  • Phone to verify that the title is available and to confirm any access restrictions.
  • Fill out the card completely, including the source of verification.
The host library determines the length of time that a user may have access to a title or other resource. The Yellow Card does not give users unlimited access to another library's collections and does not guarantee that materials will be available at a given time. In most cases, access is limited to the specific titles or other materials indicated on the Yellow Card.

Instructions to the Host Library
Before facilitating access to a title for a user through the Yellow Card Program, a contact at the host library should confirm the card information and collect the card from the user. The host library should submit all cards received to METRO at the end of each month.

How to use the METRO Blue Card for subject referrals:
The Blue Card grants broader access to users interested in exploring whole subject areas. Access to collections arranged through the use of METRO Blue Cards is limited to a fixed period of time determined by the host library. To access this program:
  • Verify that a host library has a strong collection in your subject area.
  • Confirm in the METRO Directory of Members that the library is a Blue Card program participant.
  • Contact the host library to confirm any restrictions on access to collections.
The host library determines the length of time that a user may have access to a collection. The Blue Card does not give users unlimited access to another library's collections and does not guarantee that materials will be available at a given time. In most cases, access is limited to materials indicated on the Blue Card.

Instructions to the Host Library
Before facilitating access to a title for a user through the Blue Card Program, a contact at the host library should confirm the card information and collect the card from the user. The host library should submit all cards received to METRO at the end of each month.

To order Yellow and Blue Referral Cards, please contact Robert Schmidt at (212) 228-2320 x 14, or email delivery@metro.org.