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Using Other Libraries

If we do not have what you want here at Aston, please let us know.

However, you may wish to use books and printed journals in other university libraries, either in Birmingham or nearer home or work.
Library & Information Services participates in a scheme called SCONUL Access. SCONUL Access is a reciprocal service supported by most of the higher education libraries of the UK and Ireland.

How to register for SCONUL Access membership

If you plan to visit another library, it is worth checking their library's website in advance for current opening hours and conditions of use and check the library catalogue to make sure that the books and journals you need are available.

To join SCONUL Access you will need to fill in an application form, and take it to the Enquiries desk in the Library where it will be signed and approved.
Application forms are also available from Enquiries.

To register with other university libraries you will usually have to make your first visit in person. The SCONUL Access website has full details of how to register.

What to expect from your SCONUL Access membership

This will not normally mean the same privileges as the university’s own staff and students, and the number of books you can borrow will vary. Please refer to the individual library for specific information.
You will not usually be able to access any electronic resources other than the library catalogue.

You will be assigned to a SCONUL Access band, depending on whether you are a member of staff or a student.
Full time undergraduate students only have reference access to SCONUL Access member libraries.

Borrower category

 

SCONUL Access band

Undergraduate (full time)

Reference

Part time students and distance learners

band B

Placement students

band B

Postgraduate (taught)

band C

Postgraduate (research)

band A

Academic Staff and Researchers

band A

British Library

The British Library is open to all undergraduates, postgraduates, researchers and staff.
If you wish to join the British Library, you will need to take along proof of identity and home address – a bank or credit card, passport or driver’s licence, together with a utility bill or bank statement.
To find out more about this, the UK’s national library, please visit http://www.bl.uk

To contact the British Library phone +44(0)20 7412 7677 or email mailto:reader.admissions@bl.uk

You may wish to consult the British Library catalogues before you visit so that you make the best use of your time there http://www.bl.uk/catalogues/listings.html.