General Access
Why can’t I log in?
First, make sure you have visited Media Commons to sign the most recent borrower’s agreement for the current school year to activate your account. If you’ve already done that, watch the Media Commons Orientation and Booking Tutorial to learn how to log in. Still having trouble? Come talk to us, we might have to reset your password.
I’m not taking any classes in Fine Arts. Am I able to borrow equipment from the Fine Arts Media Commons?
No, you must be a current Fine Arts student, faculty, or staff member to borrow equipment.
Where else on campus or in the community can I access equipment?
UVic libraries offers a variety of media equipment for students to borrow free of charge. Outside of the University, you can rent production equipment from local businesses such as MediaNet and CineVic.
Can my roommate pick up my booking because I'm working?
No, the equipment must remain in the sole possession of the borrower who booked the equipment for the duration of the booking period, including equipment pick-up and drop-off.
Equipment Specific
Do you supply batteries?
We do not supply disposable batteries such as AA batteries, which are used in some of our equipment. We do supply rechargeable kit batteries for many resources such as digital photo or video cameras.
I need to use ______ but I don’t know how to use it. Can you help me?
Yes. We are happy to provide one-on-one guidance for our equipment and we may also be able to assist you with your own equipment. Please arrange a time to meet with us in advance so we can choose a time that’s less busy.
Do you supply SD cards?
Yes, all of our digital video, photo, and audio-recording resources come equipped with SD cards.
I heard you have ______ but I can’t see it when I log in to the booking system.
Some of our more high-end equipment requires tutorials or class workshops before you gain authorization to view and book it in the online booking system. Get in touch with us if there is equipment that you are interested in using.
What’s the best ______ you have?
Come talk to us for equipment recommendations. Suggestions will vary depending on the scope of your project.
Can I take out only part of a kit?
No, equipment kits must be taken out as a complete kit. However, we have several independent resources for loan that do not belong in kits, such as lenses, cables, etc.
I need more equipment than the booking system will allow me to reserve. Can I book extra gear through you?
We understand that in some cases your work might need two cameras or three projectors, or some other consideration beyond the standard booking. The best time for us to accommodate these requests is during quiet periods early in the semester, over reading break, or when numerous class assignments involving the equipment in question are not due. When things are hectic and there are heavy bookings, we may not be able to accommodate your request, but come and talk to us, and if we can, we will. If we can’t, we can often point you in the direction of someone else who may be able to help.
Time & Money
Does it cost money to borrow equipment?
No. However, borrowers may be charged fees for equipment that is returned late, damaged or missing parts.
What happens if I don’t pick up my equipment booking by 4:00pm?
If you don’t pick up equipment before media commons closes, your booking will be canceled and the equipment you had reserved will become available in our online booking system. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before media commons closes. If you suspect you will not be able to pick up your equipment booking, please cancel or reschedule your booking in the online booking system so those resources will be available to others.
I need to pick up equipment in the morning, is it possible to pick up equipment earlier than 2:00pm?
Typically, equipment is still with another borrower in the morning, hence the designated 2:00pm-4:00pm pick-up time. However, it is possible to arrange an alternative pick-up time with us if you do so in advance.
I’m sick and unable to return my equipment, what should I do?
If you are sick and unable to return equipment, you must let us know as soon as possible so we can attempt to find alternative resources for borrowers who have booked the equipment you have out. Please call us during our open hours at 250-721-7310 or email at fineartsequip@uvic.ca
Can I return something late?
No, returning equipment late often interrupts other borrower’s bookings, preventing others from completing homework assignments, video shoots, group projects, etc. Also, you will be charged a $20 late fee, starting at 12:00pm noon on the day it’s due back.
Do you really charge late fees, or is that just a scare tactic?
BOTH!
I need equipment for longer than the maximum time, is it possible to book equipment for a longer duration?
Yes, you can get in touch with us to request an extended loan period. If deemed appropriate, we will create an extended booking for you in the online booking system. Extended bookings will depend on equipment availability.