COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP

The University of Manchester Library is one of the largest academic libraries in the United Kingdom. We welcome over three million students, researchers and visitors annually.

As a community member, you gain access to a wealth of resources and services in Main Library - the largest library site on campus.

Here's what your annual membership includes:

1. Library Spaces: There are over 2,000 study spaces at Main Library that you can use (excluding Group Study Rooms).
2. Borrowing Rights: Borrow up to four standard loan books at a time. We hold a wide range of printed books from academic textbooks to everyday fiction.
3. On-Site eResources: Utilise our dedicated PCs on Blue Ground to access a wide range of electronic resources. From scholarly journals to databases, you'll find valuable information at your fingertips.
4. Off-Site eResources: You can search for openly available journal articles and books to read anytime and anywhere. Search for openly available journal articles and books.

THINGS TO KNOW

How do I become a member?

Go to the Customer Services desk at Main Library and simply ask to become a community member.

You will need to show photo ID or document to confirm your identity. You will be given a membership card, which you need to have with you every time you visit Main Library.

Your membership lasts for 12 months and can be renewed annually.

When can I access Main Library?

Community members can access Main Library during our advertised opening hours. You can find our current opening hours on our website or you can ask Library staff in the building. Please note that as a community member, you cannot access any other University buildings.

How long can I borrow printed books for?

Our standard loan books can be borrowed for the whole academic year.

Please remember that books can be requested by other Library users at any time, so you may have to bring them back sooner than expected.

What resources can I use?

Within Main Library, you can read any of our books on display, as well as access digital content on our dedicated PCs for external users.

Where can I eat and drink?

We have microwaves in the Library Lounge for you to heat up your food or you can purchase something from the Library Coffee Cart/vending machines on site. There are also a range of supermarkets nearby.

Who do I ask for help?

There is always someone at the Customer Services desk to help you. Library staff are easily identifiable: they wear purple clothing with The University of Manchester logo on it.

You can use our online Library Chat service 24/7, which can be access via the Library website.

Library staff are always available to help you, but in the event of an emergency, Campus Security are available 24 hours a day. You can reach Campus Security by calling 0161 306 9966. This number is also printed on the back of your Library ID Card for easy reference.

How do I get around Main Library?

Main Library has multiple levels and study spaces. If you're not sure how to find your way, a specific space or where the printers are, use our online interactive map of Main Library.