Members of the public who wish to use the University Library are encouraged to apply for an external membership card.
This is free and is annually renewable.
External membership of the University Library is available to those who are over 16 and who are not staff or students of the University.
To become an external member, please complete the online form. You will be asked to email a jpeg format photo (we are unable to process your application until you send a photo).
In order to collect your external member card, you will need to show photographic ID.
There are two categories of external membership:
- Over 18 - members can borrow up to two books at a time and membership lasts for 12 months at which point you will be invited to renew
- Aged 16-18 - members are unable to borrow books and, for their first visit, will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian in order for them to complete a short consent form giving their permission for the use of our services. These forms may only be obtained from library staff during Reception Desk opening hours. For further information please contact the Library.
Please be aware that as we have a responsibility to safeguard users under the age of 18, if you look under the age of 25 we will ask for proof that you are over 18 when you collect your library Card.
Free wifi and open access eresources
External members may bring in a mobile device or laptop and access our fast and reliable Guest wifi network and access open access journals, books and research material available on the web.
Unfortunately we are unable to provide access to desktop computers or printing facilities to external members. These services are available in Portsmouth Public Libraries and Hampshire Public Libraries.
SCONUL Access
SCONUL Access enables students and staff registered at another institution and who are entitled to join, to register under the SCONUL Access scheme.
External membership renewal
External members will be invited to renew their membership a month before their membership expires. Applicants who are renewing will be asked to provide photographic ID when they collect their replacement card.
Membership for ex members of staff
Former members of staff who join as external members can borrow up to ten books at a time.
Can I join as an external member today?
You will need to complete the online form and you will be informed by email when you can come and collect your card.
Day Visitors
Over 18s can obtain a day pass to use the University Library as a visitor without taking out external membership. Day passes can be obtained from the Reception Desk on production of photographic ID.
Please be aware that as we have a responsibility to safeguard users under the age of 18, if you look under the age of 25 we will ask for proof that you are over 18 when you apply for a day pass.
If you are 16 or 17, you can visit the Library accompanied by an adult. The adult must accompany you at all times and be responsible for your safety and behaviour. An 'Accompanied Minors' form must be completed for each 16/17 year old, for each visit. Please note these forms may only be obtained from library staff during Reception Desk opening hours.
Alternatively you can obtain an external members card that will allow you to visit the library unaccompanied (see above).
Children under the age of 16 may only visit the library with an adult. The adult must accompany them at all times and be responsible for their safety and behaviour. An 'Accompanied Minors' form must be completed for each child, for each visit. Please note these forms may only be obtained from library staff during Reception Desk opening hours.
If you regularly visit outside these hours, please contact us to discuss alternative arrangements.
You may also find some of the resources on our Information for Visitors page useful when planning your visit to the University Library.