Using Other Libraries - Access Schemes

Access to printed resources in other libraries can be arranged through co-operative membership schemes, application forms or letter of introduction. It is advised that you check with QMU Library before visiting another library to ensure you have the correct documentation to avoid disappointment.

SCONUL Access

Staff and research students, part-time, distance learning and placement students as well as taught postgraduates can all apply to the largest borrowing scheme for higher education in the UK and Ireland. Under this scheme, full-time undergraduate students can apply for reference only access. More information can be found here

Application forms are available from the Service Desk or can be downloaded here. This form needs to be signed and authorised by a member of LRC staff before you go.

For more information about this scheme, please ask at the Service Desk.

Edinburgh Libraries Passport Scheme

The Edinburgh Libraries Passport is a card which tells the library you are visiting that you are a genuine information seeker and that your requirements cannot be dealt with at your own library. It is of particular benefit to students and staff who are trying to obtain reference access to some of the specialist libraries in Edinburgh that are not members of other schemes such as The Royal College of Surgeons library.

Click here for more details of libraries participating in the scheme. Application forms are available at the Service Desk who can also issue you your card.

Access to the National Library of Scotland (NLS) for UG students

Undergraduate students can apply for access to the NLS on a 'Short-Term Reader' ticket. This is usually restricted to 3rd and 4th year students (see also 'Access to the Scottish Business Information Service at the NLS'). Undergraduate students must complete a 'Request for Admission (Undergraduate Student) form' which is also available from the Library. This must be authorised by a member of QMU Library staff before going to the NLS. For more information - including details of evidence of identity - see the NLS website.

Access to the National Library of Scotland (NLS) for PG, Research students and academic staff

Academic staff, postgraduate and research students can apply to the NLS for either a 'Short-Term Reader' ticket (for occasional access over 4 weeks) or a 'General Readers' ticket (for frequent access over 3 years). For more information - including forms and details of evidence of identity - see the NLS website.

Access to SCOTBIS (Scottish Business Information Service) at the NLS

QMU Library is a subscriber of SCOTBIS. QMU students have access to the SCOTBIS website and can also use the extensive collection of printed resources relating to business information available at the NLS. Access is not restricted to 3rd and 4th year students although students must complete the forms as outlined for UG students above.

Letter of Introduction

To visit libraries which are not participants in the above schemes (e.g. in the Republic of Ireland), access may be given at the discretion of the Librarian at the library to be visited.

A 'Letter of Access' may be provided by QMU to facilitate this. If you require such a letter, please complete the following form and return it to QMU Library allowing enough time for the 'Letter of Introduction' to be sent to you.

If you are unsure about access to any library, please contact the Library Enquiry Service for more information or ask in the Library.

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