Using other libraries

Registering as a user

Check the websites of individual participating libraries for their opening hours and other local conditions (e.g., new tickets may only be issued during office hours, or not on the day of first visit; you may need to supply a passport sized photograph). Take your SCONUL Access card, photographs (if required) and your library/ID card (from your home library) along with you. You will be issued with a library card and will be able to borrow from this host library until your SCONUL Access card expires. Your SCONUL Access card will be valid for up to three years or until your course or contract ends if earlier.

Remember! The scheme offers a simplified route to concessions for library users but it confers no rights, since admission to libraries is always at the discretion of the university or college concerned.

Loans

SCONUL Access users may apply to borrow books from the host library's general lending stock. You should expect that the host library will restrict the number and the range of materials that you can borrow. For example, a host library may limit the number of books you can borrow and will not permit you to borrow from the short (restricted) loan or DVD collections. Be prepared to abide by the rules of the library you wish to use. You will be responsible for any fines or replacement costs incurred.

Reference Access

Some member libraries will allow full time undergraduates to have reference access. Home Libraries may issue a reference card which allows the user reference access to member libraries, but no borrowing rights.

Electronic Access

SCONUL Access does not provide automatic rights to computer facilities: this includes access to electronic journals and databases to which the host library subscribes. Many members do however provide some electronic access.

Help and Advice

All higher education libraries operate on the basis that your home library will provide training in the use of library services. If you do need help, you are strongly recommended to seek advice from your home library first (for example if you need to consult material on a particular subject, or if you have a disability for which you need specific support). If you need special help at the library you are visiting, you must phone for advice and if necessary, book an appointment. Local contacts and their phone numbers and email addresses are shown in the information provided in Where do you want to go.