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Using other libraries

How can I access material held in other libraries?

All Cranfield staff and students are entitled to visit and borrow material from any of our three University libraries. Simply visit during staffed hours and take your University ID or Barrington Library card with you. Alternatively, reserve the item you want in Library Search then select the postal delivery option (if you are eligible for this service) or your preferred pickup library (and we will relocate the book to the library of your choice).

If you would like to access material that we do not have in print or online, you have a number of options:

Join the SCONUL Access scheme

SCONUL Access is a scheme that enables staff and students to use other UK and Irish University libraries, either on a reference only basis or with borrowing rights. The scheme is free but you must apply via SCONUL prior to visiting another university.

How to join

Register on the SCONUL Access website. It will provide a list of all the libraries you are entitled to use. Select a library you wish to visit and fill in the online form.

Your application will be processed within three working days and you will receive an email confirmation. You can then take your approval email and your Cranfield University ID card to the library you wish to join and they will issue you with their own library card. If you have not been issued with a University ID card, please contact us and we can create a library card for you. Please leave enough time for the card to be posted out to you before you organise a library visit.

You do not need to reapply if you wish to visit more than one library. Your approval email is valid for all participating libraries.

Before you travel

Make sure you check the website of any library you intend to use prior to your visit for their opening hours, borrowing arrangements and any conditions of access. For example

  • You may need to supply a passport-sized photograph.
  • Some libraries restrict the times at which SCONUL Access members are able to visit.
  • New cards might only be issued during office hours.

Libraries that participate in the SCONUL Access scheme are not obliged to offer you PC access or to let you use their electronic resources. However, if they are members of Eduroam, you should be able to log on to the internet from your own mobile device.

  • You will need to set up Eduroam on your device from campus before you travel.
  • Please read the Eduroam user guide or ask IT staff to help you.

Once your device is configured, you will be able to use the Eduroam wireless network at any other participation site (including most universities in the UK, Europe and further afield) without the need for a special guest account.

Visitors from other universities

Are you a visitor from another university wishing to use our library via the SCONUL Access Scheme? See: Information for visitors.