University of Reading cookie policy

We use cookies on reading.ac.uk to improve your experience, monitor site performance and tailor content to you.

Read our cookie policy to find out how to manage your cookie settings.

Reading graduates

As a graduate of the University of Reading, if Reading is still your local University, you can join the Library as an External borrower at the discounted rate of £60 per year. Membership will confer borrowing rights only, it will not allow automatic access to e-resources.

If you have just successfully completed a course with the University, and will be beginning a new course at the start of the next Session, you can apply for membership over the summer for a reduced charge of £20.

Applying for borrowing rights

  • Complete our online application form.
    Printed copies are also available from the Welcome Desk on the Ground Floor of the Library.
  • If eligible, you will be invited to register and to pay the appropriate fee detailed above.
  • Registration in person is available at the Welcome Desk which is open 09:00 - 17:00, Monday to Thursday, Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 - 17:00 Friday during semester time. During vacation, hours may vary but ordinarily are Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00. If you cannot visit during these hours please contact the Library User Services Team (email: library@reading.ac.uk or telephone: (0118) 378 8770) to make alternative arrangements.

See our Privacy notice (PDF) for information on what personal information we collect, hold and share in order to provide Library services to you and your rights in respect of the data we hold about you.

Borrowing

You will be given an External borrowers card which gives you access to the Library and enables you to borrow:

  • ten standard or semester loan items
  • these can be borrowed for up to six weeks unless recalled by another person
  • you will be fined 80p per day for items that have been recalled and are overdue

Using self-service features on the catalogue

When you register you will be given a PIN which you can use to access the self-service features on the catalogue system, such as renewing your loans, placing holds (on Standard loan items only), and viewing your account.

If you forget your PIN, just contact us for a reminder, but please be prepared to quote your Library card number.

Further information

For further information on access to the Library please contact us.

For information about free resources see our Guide to free research resources.