The Stewart Library currently subscribes to two databases that provide standards for specific industries:
In the past, the library has facilitated the purchase of standards from agencies such as ASTM, ISO, and NACE. In 2026, the vendors providing these standards, namely ASTM and ANSI, began to strictly limit access to purchased standards, including:
- Restricting the number of times a standard could be accessed once purchased.
- Limiting access to the computer (via IP address) of the purchaser. Some vendors allowed for three computers to open a file, while some only allowed for one.
- Limiting or completely restricting printing.
Given these changes, the Stewart Library has developed this policy so that we no longer risk impeding the access to them.
Standards for Individual or Small Group Projects
For standards being used for individual projects, the faculty in need of the standard will now purchase the standard using their p-card and cover the cost of those standards with their own departmental funds. Because most standards are no longer available for campus-wide use, the library is unable to fund individual standards. This new model will ensure the library will not inadvertently “lock” faculty out of needed files. Contact Diana Meiser for help locating standards, determining if the library already has access to a standard, and for information on how to obtain standards.
Standards for Class or Large Group Projects
When standard(s) are needed for larger groups (10 or more people) or class use, Diana Meiser can work with faculty and departments to explore options for less restricted use. ANSI, for example, provides the option of a campus-wide license, but at a higher cost than an individual purchase. Library funds (when available) can be used to lease ANSI standards if they are going to be used for a class or large group project. ANSI has a minimum 3 year lease for this model of access. The purchasing of non-ANSI standards will be up to the department or college to fund.