Library Services: your 'one-stop shop'
Everything you need to know about Library services and support during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
The following libraries / study centres are open and offering a limited service for those in essential need:*
- The Arts and Social Sciences Library, open 7 days a week, 9am - 5.30pm,
- The Chemistry Library, open weekdays, 9am - 5pm,
- The Medical Library, open weekdays, 9am - 5pm
- The Veterinary Sciences Library, open weekdays, 10am - 5pm,
- Beacon House Study Centre, open weekdays 8.45am - 8.30pm and weekends 9am - 5pm.
Please follow the links on this page for details on how to access our services during this time.
*The following categories are recognised as essential need:
- Those with an urgent need to access IT and digital services - for example those who do not have it at home.
- Those unable to study at home and who need specific facilities.
You may benefit from additional support for and advice on your study practices from our Study Skills team. We would also recommend consulting the university’s health and wellbeing webpages for additional help and guidance.
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Click and Collect and Postal Loan Service
You can access printed materials that are not available in electronic format with the Library's Click and Collect and Postal Loan Service.
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Accessing electronic resources
Guidance on how to access the library's electronic resources when working off-campus.
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Accessibility and support
Find out about the services and support we provide for disabled and dyslexic learners. We can also support part time learners or those with caring / parental responsibilities.
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Study seat booking system
We are operating a study seat booking system for those in essential need. If you are able to study at home please continue to do so until national lockdown restrictions ease.
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Subject support
Get help with subject-related enquiries and advice about library resources.
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Visiting the Library
Advice on what to do before visiting the library, and what to expect when you arrive.
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We are open online
Learn more about the library's digital service offer.
Frequently asked questions
Are the libraries open?
We are offering a limited service for those in essential need from the Arts and Social Sciences Library, Chemistry Library, Medical Library, Veterinary Sciences Library and Beacon House Study Centre. We will update our webpages as changes to the service are announced, including when we are able to re-open other libraries and study centres.
Can I access physical books and journals?
The Arts and Social Sciences Library, Chemistry Library, Medical Library and Veterinary Sciences Library are open for self-selection and self-issue of books from the shelves. Please read the information on the library webpages carefully before visiting.
For printed items held in other libraries, we have introduced a Click and Collect service. Alternatively, if you are not able to visit campus and are based in the UK, the library can send you books via our postal loan service. Please read the information on the webpage carefully before submitting your request.
If none of these options are suitable, please contact your subject librarian or your tutor to discuss alternatives.
What should I do about my books?
All loans have been extended until the 19th April, and will be extended further if necessary.
At present, books (from any UoB Library) can be returned to the Arts and Social Sciences Library, Chemistry Library, Medical Library or Veterinary Sciences Library, but in line with Government advice on when you should leave your house, you should not visit the library solely for this purpose.
If you are unable to return items in person, you can use our free postal returns service.
Are you able to provide me with scanned copies of book chapters and articles?
We regret that this is not possible at present, however, we will provide a digital copy for you where possible, and we will investigate the purchase of eBooks as an alternative - please contact the subject librarian team for advice.
How do I access online resources?
Information on accessing our online resources is available here.
Can I use the printers in the library?
You can use the printers in the Arts and Social Sciences Library, Chemistry Library, Medical Library, Veterinary Sciences Library or Beacon House Study Centre if you have an urgent need and can't print at home. This provision is likely to change as government advice is updated so please check the webpage regularly.
Can I borrow a loan laptop from the library?
If you are having difficulty with your own device we suggest you contact IT Services for remote support or notify your department if you are worried that your studies may be affected. Laptops are currently available for loan in the Arts and Social Sciences Library and Medical Library as usual, but these may only be used in the library you loan them from.
I need help accessing resources. Can someone help me?
Our Subject Librarians are still available to help you. Find out who to contact for your course here.
How can I contact the library?
You can email us at library-enquiries@bristol.ac.uk. Other contacts and our chat service can be found here.
Can I still suggest new books?
You can tell us which title you need and we will try to supply it in electronic format or suggest an alternative. Instructions on how to submit your suggestion can be found here.
Wellbeing
We have revamped our regular wellbeing information to bring you some resources to support you during the ongoing Covid-19 crisis. Some are interactive, others are simply soothing. All we hope are enjoyable, and help you to relax and be productive.
Study skills
Special Collections
Special Collections enquiries should be sent to special-collections@bristol.ac.uk or voicemails can be left on 0117 928 8014. The Reading Room remains closed for the time being but staff may be able to provide a copying service and may be able to undertake some initial research on your behalf. Please see the Special Collections webpage for more information about the collections.