As a student here, you can join or visit a range of other academic libraries in the UK and research from books held in other libraries.
Other university libraries
You can search the catalogues of academic libraries in London, the South East, and throughout the UK and Ireland using Library Hub Discover to find resources in the major research libraries of the UK.
The SCONUL Access scheme allows you to visit different academic libraries for reference and, in some cases, to borrow items. The scheme is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students, most academic staff and research students. It is not open to alumni, visitors of the University or short course students and the staff who teach them. If you find that you need to use the research material for more time, you can request the book through our Can't Find What You Need service.
The reciprocal access scheme is run by the Society of College, National and University Libraries (SCONUL) and most university and college libraries in the UK and Ireland are participants.
How do I join the scheme?
To check your eligibility and join the scheme, visit the SCONUL Access website.
Can I use other libraries during the summer vacation?
You can use your University ID card to access other academic libraries for reference during vacation.
Associate students can use this scheme only if their college is a SCONUL member.
Visit the SCONUL Vacation Access Scheme web page for details.
University College London libraries
Staff and postgraduate research students can access UCL Library Services via the SCONUL Access scheme.
Undergraduate and taught postgraduate students do not have access to UCL Library Services.
British Library
The British Library is the UK's national research library and contains some of the best collections in the world, including over 45,000 electronic journals and 800 electronic databases.
Most resources are only available from British Library workstations within the library's reading rooms and Business & IP Centre.
The British Library is open to everyone, but you should first try to locate the items you need in other academic or public libraries whenever possible. To use the British Library reading rooms, you'll need a Reader Pass. For information on visiting, please check the British Library website.
Society and museum libraries
You can also search individual online library catalogues, as many societies and museums have libraries and archives that may help. For guidance and tips, speak to your Academic Engagement Librarian.