Visiting other libraries

There may be times when you want to visit other academic libraries. Please see the schemes mentioned below on how to access libraries at other educational institutions across the UK.

SCONUL Access

We are part of the Society of College, National and University Libraries (SCONUL). SCONUL Access is a scheme which allows many university library users to study spaces or books and journals at other libraries which belong to the scheme. Visit the SCONUL website to submit your application.

Joining the SCONUL Access scheme.

You will need a campus card to visit other university libraries. Local partner college students and UK based distance learners can request a campus card be posted to them.

Please note that reading for Sunderland Online programmes is provided entirely online. Therefore students on these programmes are not eligible to join the SCONUL Access Scheme.

Using WiFi at other institutions

University of Sunderland is a member of eduroam which means you can WiFi is available for staff and students who are visiting other participating institutions. You will need your University of Sunderland User ID and password to log in. Please speak to the staff at the library you are visiting for more information.

Using eduroam at another institution.

The British Library

The British Library is the national library of the UK. They receive a copy of every publication produced in the UK and Ireland. You can request to use their Reading Rooms and view items in their collections.

How to get a reader pass for The British Library.

Archives and special collections

Many libraries and museums have archives and special collections. Please contact individual institutions beforehand to see if you are eligible to visit. The below search services can help you locate material in UK and Irish academic, national & specialist libraries:

  • COPAC - Copac supports researchers and information professionals by enabling them to search the catalogues of over 90 libraries at once, including the UK national libraries, University libraries, and specialist libraries.
  • Archives Hub - Use the Archives Hub to save time and search the archives of over 300 UK institutions at once for the locations of archive material.

 

Page reviewed: November 2021