The Society of College, National and University Libraries (SCONUL), has been opening up knowledge to university students since 1950.
As a member of the society, our University is connected to a national network of libraries and their resources.
As a student, one of the many benefits available to you, is access to this network. Read more to find out how!
There may be times where you may need to access other university libraries and you can do this through the SCONUL Access scheme.
- Visit the SCONUL Access website for details of participating universities and how to apply.
- Once registered with SCONUL Access you will receive a confirmation email. Just take the email (either printed or on your phone) to the library you want to visit with your ID card.
- You only need to apply once, the approval email you receive will apply for every library participating in the scheme that accepts your SCONUL Access band.
- Your SCONUL Access approval has an expiry date. After this date, you will need to make another application if you want to continue using the SCONUL Access scheme.
Remember:
- Always check ahead to make sure that the library you want to visit is open to visitors or new members.
- Cards are issued on condition your library record is valid and clear from overdue items.
- You are advised to check opening times and accessibility issues before visiting your chosen institution.
- Computer, IT facilities and e-resource access are not usually included under SCONUL Access.
- For Wi-Fi access use Eduroam where available (login using your UEL username and password).
When you register with SCONUL Access, you will be assigned to a band depending on what level you are studying at. The different bands have different access rights through SCONUL Access depending on the institution you are visiting.
Not all university libraries permit access to all bands. Certain university libraries might only permit band A card holders, for example UCL or King's College London. Students are always advised to check beforehand.
- Band A - Lecturers, staff and research students (PhD)
- Band B - Part-time undergraduates / part-time postgraduates / long distance learners
- Band C - Full-time postgraduates
- Band R - Full time undergraduates – reference access only
During the summer vacation period, the SCONUL summer vacation access scheme allows students to visit participating libraries upon production of a university ID or student card, without needing to make an application through SCONUL Access
Please note: The dates you will be able to access a university's library through the Summer Vacation Access scheme depend on their vacation dates, not UEL's. Always check ahead.
Borrowing privileges and access to electronic databases are NOT included in this scheme.
To use the British Library, you will need to register for a reader pass directly from the British Library.
Two forms of identification and your UEL ID card will need to be required for registration.