LibAnswers: Library answers

The SCONUL Access scheme allows you to borrow from many other higher education libraries if you are a member of staff, postgraduate, part-time or placement student. Full-time undergraduates may use other libraries for reference purposes, but not for borrowing.

For more information and the online application form, please go to the SCONUL Access website. When you complete the form, please enter your university email address as the confirmation email will be sent to this address.

Please note that you only need to complete the application form once. You can then use the confirmation email to take to any libraries you wish to join. Please check before you visit another library in case you need to take a photograph or extra ID or if there are restrictions on when they process new memberships. Some libraries only allow visitors at particular times or may not allow access at all during exam periods. Building work during vacations may prevent access to certain collections.

IT facilities and access to electronic journals and databases are not included in the scheme although walk-in access may be permitted.

SCONUL Summer Vacation Access

Undergraduate and taught postgraduate students will normally be granted reference use of other SCONUL higher education libraries free of charge during the summer vacation of the host institution. See the SCONUL website for more information.

The SCONUL Access scheme above will allow taught postgraduates to join and borrow from many academic libraries. However not all institutional members of SCONUL participate in the SCONUL Access Scheme.

If you are joining another library, they may wish to see your Lancaster University card. If you are a distance learner and do not have one, please email the Registry at recordsenquiries@lancaster.ac.uk with your student ID number and a photo. Please also make sure the Registry has your current address for posting your card.