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SCONUL Access scheme

SCONUL Access scheme joining instructions for University of Bristol students and academic staff

SCONUL Access provides borrowing privileges for most:

  • Staff & research postgraduates (e.g.PhD, MPhil)
  • Undergraduate & postgraduate registered part-time, registered distance learning and placement students (6 weeks or more)
  • Full-time postgraduates

Full-time undergraduate students can use other libraries on a reference only basis.

To join SCONUL Access in order to use another library in the scheme, you will need to apply online in advance of your visit. You must use your UoB email address and be in good standing with the library at the time of your application (eg, no fines or overdue books). If not, your application will be denied. Once you have received an email approving your application, print this out and take it to the library for which you have applied. You must have both your UCard and SCONUL email with you to be granted access.

You should check the website of the library you want to visit for their opening hours and other local conditions. For example, at some libraries, new tickets may only be issued during office hours, or not on the day of first visit or you may need to supply a passport sized photograph).

Please note: Access to computer facilities (including electronic journals and databases) is not normally provided as part of SCONUL Access. The host library may also restrict the number and the range of materials that you can access and borrow.

You will be able to use SCONUL Access for three years, or the length of your course, placement or contract, whichever is the shorter period. Membership may be renewed if your course, placement or contract continues. If you have any queries about the SCONUL Access scheme, please contact Library Membership Services or email lib-access@bristol.ac.uk.

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SCONUL Access scheme joining instructions for students and academic staff from other higher education institutions who would like to visit University of Bristol libraries

Your home institution library is responsible for explaining details of library access schemes that may be appropriate for you. Therefore, please contact your home institution library to discuss details of how to join the SCONUL Access scheme, or visit the SCONUL Access website.

You will be allowed access to and, if eligible, be granted borrowing rights from the University of Bristol Library once your application is approved by your home institution library and once you have formally registered with us. You will not have access to computing facilities (such as electronic journals and databases), except for Library Catalogue terminals.

In order to gain reading and reference access, visiting students and staff will be asked to provide the following on arrival:

  • a SCONUL email of authorisation (or the old SCONUL Access card if still valid)
  • a home institution library / ID card for identification purposes

If you are eligible to register for borrowing privileges, you will need to visit the Membership Office in the entrance of the Arts & Social Sciences Library, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TJ. The office is generally open Monday to Friday 9am–1pm and 2–4pm, subject to staffing. If you are making a special trip please check with us in advance of your visit. Please note: Your library card can be issued within a few minutes but you will not be able to borrow on your first visit, which is for registration purposes only.

Please contact us in advance to discuss any University of Bristol Library service or resource related issues. You may also wish to visit the branch library web pages for details of the services they offer, including locations and opening hours.

Information for Disabled Users

Please seek advice from your home library first should you have any support requirements, such as producing material in alternative formats.

If you have any access requirements please contact the Library Membership Services Manager, Nathalie Beaufils:

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