LibAnswers: Library policies

Eligibility

NOTE- APPLIES TO ALL ACCOUNT TYPES: If you live, work, or are assigned to a duty station outside a 50-mile radius of MCB Quantico (MCBQ), access is digital only for online resources. Please contact Virtual Branch for more information mcu_grc_virtual@usmcu.edu.

The following are eligible to apply for a Marine Corps Research Library account:

• Marine Corps University resident students, faculty and staff (CSC, SAW, EWS, MCWAR), upon PCS to MCBQ.
• Marine Corps University distance students, faculty and staff (CEME, CDET, EPME).
• Active Duty military (all branches), Reservists, DoD Civilians, and DoD Contractors* assigned to MCBQ as a duty station, or to a unit within a 50-mile radius of MCB Quantico, or living within a 50-mile radius. 
• MCU Fellows, CMC Fellows, FPME students, and PhD candidates. If living outside a 50-mile radius, access is digital only for online resources. Eligibility is verified through the MCU Fellows program branch. 
• *DoD Contractors must provide a letter from their government (GS) Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) stating that use of library materials is necessary to complete their statement of work. Download a sample Contractor Letter here and email it to mcu_grc_virtual@usmcu.edu.
• USMC-Affiliated Researchers. Please contact Virtual Branch for more information mcu_grc_virtual@usmcu.edu.

The following are not eligible for an account:

• Family members of Reservists, DoD Contractors, DoD Civilians.
• Family members of MCU Fellows, EPME, CEME, CDET, CDET Blended, and other online students, unless living within 50-mile radius of MCB Quantico and hold a valid DEERS-issued ID card.
• Active Duty or Reserve students outside the local area who are not enrolled in an approved MCU, CMC fellow, FPME, or PhD program.
• Active Duty or Reserve, and family members, who are not stationed at MCBQ or within a 50-mile radius.
• DoD Contractors who are not assigned to MCBQ, or not performing work for, or directly affiliated with, Marine Corps University or MCU Schools.
• Certain VA ID retired card holders. Must hold a valid DEERS-issued ID card.
• Service members and veterans enrolled in academic programs that are not conducted at, or affiliated with, Marine Corps University.

How to Register

• Must apply in person. A valid Military or DoD ID card must be presented at the time of application. Exception: Currently enrolled MCU students.
• Some patron types may apply online. Please contact Virtual Branch if you are an MCU Student or MCU/CMC/PhD Fellow.
• Minors applying for a Library card must apply at the Quantico Base Library. A parent or guardian (Sponsor) with valid DoD identification must be present at time of registration. The Sponsor is responsible for all materials checked out by his/her family members/dependents.

This information was updated on 2 June 2025. POC: Virtual Branch