To see a map of where collections are located, select a category below.
Books that are too large to fit in classmark sequence on the shelves are shelved in the "Large books" collection, regardless of classmark. All these books are listed on the catalogue with a classmark preceded by "LARGE BOOKS".
Publications that are very small, thin, flimsy and likely to become damaged or lost if shelved among normal sized books are gathered together in the "Pamphlets" collection, regardless of classmark. All these publications are listed on the catalogue with a classmark preceded by "PAMPHLETS".
Outside In World Children's Books in Translation is a prestigious collection of international books that have been translated from their original language into English. We actively encourage the collections to be used to support research and teaching at the University of Portsmouth and in the wider academic world, and for community outreach work. All these books are listed on the Library Catalogue with a classmark preceded by "OUTSIDE IN WORLD". You can borrow any of the books except those kept in the glass cupboard, which may be consulted in the Library on request.
The Glass Cupboard Collection is situated in the Atrium. Items in this collection may be fragile or unusual, e.g. pop-up books. All these books are listed on the catalogue with a classmark preceded by "GLASS CUPBOARD". Please ask a member of library staff if you would like to read or borrow any of these items.
Rare books are kept under controlled environmental conditions to preserve them. You cannot browse these books in person but you can find them all in the Library catalogue (try changing the Collection filter to "Rare Books Collection") and then ask for specific books at the Reception Desk. A member of staff will fetch the books for you. You may have to read the books at a specified desk.
The University of Portsmouth archive collection is based in the University Library and includes material not only from the current university but also its predecessors and associated organisations. Access to the Archive is by appointment only. For more information or to make an appointment, please visit the University Archive webpage.
The Map Library is home to most of the University of Portsmouth’s cartographic resources. Most items in the collection are not listed on the Library catalogue so if you have any mapping requirements, just come along and ask the Map Librarian. The Map Library does not have fixed opening times, so it is best to contact the Map Librarian before making a special visit. For more information or to make an appointment, please visit the Map Library webpage.
