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Library Membership: Members of the public

Use of the Library by Alumni, affiliates, SCONUL Access and members of the public.

Who can join the Library?

Both individuals and organisations are welcome to join the library. Reference access to the collection is free but a fee will be payable if you wish to borrow items unless you fall into one of these groups:

  • Members of the University of Southampton Society (Convocation or Alumni)
  • Friends of the Parkes Library
  • Members of the Hampshire Field Club
  • Members of the Hampshire Garden Trust
  • Members of the Hampshire Ornithological Society
  • Members of the SCONUL Access scheme
  • FE College lecturers from Hampshire & Isle of Wight colleges participating in Progress2Succeed

Proof of the above will be required when you apply.

What can I borrow?

You can borrow long loan and one week loan items. Any item with a loan period shorter than this is only available for reference use.

Full details on borrowing as an external borrower.

Electronic resources

Due to licence restrictions, only members of the University have full access to electronic services other than the Library's catalogue (Library Search). However, we can offer limited provision to some e-resources to walk-in users.  Please email libenqs@soton.ac.uk in the first instance.

Who can use the University Library?

Recognising the links between the University and the wider community, members of the public are welcome to make use of the University Library for reference free of charge.

Arrangements for members of the public vary at each site but you may be asked to sign in or show proof of ID. Please check before arriving so that you are not disappointed.

Applying for membership

Anyone wishing to borrow will be required to pay an annual subscription.

All libraries except :

  • Application forms for borrowing are available from each library except Avenue.
  • Each application is considered on its merits.
  • We will require proof of ID: one personal (e.g. driving licence) and one address (e.g. a utility bill dated within the last six months).

National Oceanographic Library:

  • Apply to: The National Oceanographic Library, Southampton Oceanography Centre, Empress Dock, European Way, Southampton, SO14 3ZH.

Cost

Membership Fee Borrowing limit* ILLs**
Personal ^ £35 + VAT 10 0
OU Postgraduate (if not SCONUL Access)^ £100 + VAT 10 0
Corporate (gift) ^ £0.00 10 0
Corporate ^ £100 +VAT 15 0

^ excluding NOL

* long loan & one week loan items

** Inter-Library loans

Once your application is approved, you will be asked to pay using the University of Southampton Online Store.

Where are the Libraries?

The University Library consists of: