Introducing the Library

At Reading, the University Library and Collections Services provide vital support for students, researchers and staff, complementing academic activities. We arrange access to the world of information – whether online, multimedia or in print – and the training and support to exploit it to the full. Come and make the most of us!

Help and training from information experts

Our staff are happy to help!

• You can ask us for help in the Library or by email.
• Read our online guides on finding information in your subject, searching databases effectively, citing your references, and more.
• Take advice and training on finding subject specific information from our Academic Liaison Librarians serving students and researchers in each University school.
• Attend workshops on using reference management packages such as EndNote or Mendeley, or on academic skills.
• Disabled and dyslexic students may ask for assistance with using the Library. See our guide for Users with disabilities for details of the help we can offer.

"I always strongly advise my students to contact liaison librarians when they are struggling to research their project essays [for] invaluable information and the sort of subject and research guidance that I simply would never be able to offer" Dr Sarah Brewer. International Study and Language Institute

Providing resources

University collections are rich in resources

• The Library arranges access to many E-resources including reliable databases directing you to articles and books. We also have thousands of e-journals and e-books easily accessible via our catalogue. Working with your tutors, we also make online reading lists available via Blackboard.
• You can view the University’s rare books, manuscripts and archives collections at Special Collections Services, Redlands Road. They include three collections of national and international importance: the Archive of British Publishing and Printing; the Samuel Beckett Collection; the Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) and its library.

And there's more...

We also offer the following facilities.

• Study areas including quiet and silent study areas, group study and discussion rooms.
• Computing facilities including open access PC areas, specialist equipment and a staffed IT Service Desk for all your queries.
• Study Advice for developing skills for effective study.
• Library Café – relax and refuel here.

Reaching beyond Reading

Our service extends beyond our own collections.

• Our Inter-library loans service can bring you articles (most via electronic delivery) and books from other libraries.
• We can also help you use other academic libraries in the UK, through reciprocal access schemes. The national British Library in London is also within easy reach of Reading.