If your institution is a member of the SCONUL Access scheme you may be entitled to obtain a library card from us for either borrowing or reference access depending on your status. Please check with your home library in the first instance. Be aware you need to bring a passport sized photograph.
If your institution is not part of the SCONUL Access scheme:
Students at other HE institutions may still be eligible for a free vacation reference pass. This gives unlimited access to the libraries and resource centres during the University of Birmingham vacation periods only. Please bring your current University card with you on application.
For academic staff you may be entitled to a free reference only card. This card will be valid for 12 months and provides unlimited access to our libraries and resource centres. Current proof of your academic status from your home institution will be required on application and for subsequent renewals.
Additional information is available on the using other libraries section.
Please note: Visitor access to the Main Library is restricted from Monday 27 April to Friday 5 June 2020 inclusive during the revision and exam period due to pressure on study spaces for our students. During this period we are unable to admit day visitors or card holders of the following types:
- Blue library reference card holders
- SCONUL Access Band R blue library reference card holders
We are also unable to assist SCONUL Access members who wish to register for a library card. Normal service for these categories will resume on Saturday 6 June 2020.