Using local libraries with SCONUL access

What is it?

SCONUL access allows you to join local university libraries at no cost. Membership is for a one year period. The number of books you can borrow varies from library to library.

What do I need?

You will need your student (matriculation) card and SCONUL access card.

How do I get a SCONUL access card?

You need to fill in a membership form which can be downloaded from http://www.access.sconul.ac.uk/users_info/application_form_pdf or picked up from the GCU London reception desk. Hand in your completed form to GCU London library staff and you will be issued a SCONUL access card on the same day.

Planning your visit:

Take the SCONUL access card, your GCU London student card and a photo (if needed) to participating local university libraries.
Some libraries require several days after registering before borrowing privileges are available.
If you want to borrow materials check the catalogue (links below) before you go to ensure they have what you want. Borrowing privileges may have restrictions and may not include short loan materials.
Many of these universities have multiple libraries – find the most appropriate one for your subject.
Check the location and hours.
If in doubt you can always phone the library before you travel.

Where can I join?

We’ve suggested some libraries that are within 5 miles of GCU London below.

Name	Library catalogue
University of the Arts London	http://voyager.arts.ac.uk/vwebv/searchBasic Borrowing privileges for most library books. If you wish to borrow on your first visit you should ring the specific UAL library of choice in advance to make an appointment.
Birkbeck College	http://ipac.lib.bbk.ac.uk/ 5 items can be borrowed; 3 or 1 week loan period; need to bring a photograph and completed affiliate application form
City University London	http://library.city.ac.uk/ Can borrow up to 5 books. Need to complete a library registration form at first visit and then a borrower's card can be collected on your next visit.
University of East London	http://primo.uel.ac.uk/ Can borrow up to 5 books. Need photograph
Goldsmiths, University of London	http://libra.gold.ac.uk/F?RN=883795619 4 items can be borrowed – 3 week loan time. Register at reception in Rutherford Building –takes 3 days before card can be collected.
London Metropolitan University	http://catalogue.londonmet.ac.uk/ 4 items can be borrowed from the 3 week or 1 week loan collections. Need to bring a photograph
London South Bank University	http://lispac.lsbu.ac.uk/ 4 items can be borrowed, 2 weeks loan period. Need to bring a photograph
School of Oriental and African Studies	http://lib.soas.ac.uk/ 3 books can be borrowed, from 4 week loan collection ONLY. Need to complete application form at arrival.

Using local libraries with SCONUL access

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