Using other libraries

Access to other university libraries

You can apply to use other university libraries under the SCONUL Access Scheme if you are an:

  • Aston University member of staff
  • Aston University postgraduate
  • Aston University undergraduate student registered on a part-time or distance learning course

 There are 2 steps to the application process:

  1. Fill in an application form online via the SCONUL Access website 
    Have your Aston University uniCARD to hand, because you will need to supply your Aston University ID number (or Library barcode) as well as your Aston University email address on the application form.

  2. Once you have received your approval email from SCONUL Access (this should be within 5 working days), print this out and keep it safe as you will need to take this with you along with your Aston University uniCARD to the library you wish to visit.  Please check their website before your first visit for terms and conditions.

Unfortunately, the SCONUL Access scheme is not available to full-time undergraduates.   

SCONUL Summer Vacation Access for full-time undergraduates

Aston University full-time undergraduate students may have reference only access to SCONUL Access member libraries during vacation periods only. However, this is up to the individual libraries to decide, so please ensure that you contact the Library you would like to visit in advance, to see whether access will be granted.  If access is granted you will need to present your uniCARD and possibly further ID also, on arrival.

Access to the British Library

The British Library is open to all undergraduates, postgraduates, researchers and staff.   If you wish to join the British Library, you will need to take along proof of identity and home address (a bank or credit card, passport or driver’s licence, together with a utility bill or bank statement).

To find out more about the UK’s national library, please visit http://www.bl.uk 

To contact the British Library phone +44(0)20 7412 7677 or email Customer-Services@bl.uk

You may wish to consult the British Library catalogues before you visit so that you make the best use of your time there.