More study space coming soon

Social distance is reducing in some of our study spaces and shelves open up for browsing from Tuesday 17 August.

Following the vaccine rollout and the changes to government guidelines, the University’s approach to the pandemic has shifted. This means we are cautiously moving forward with our plans to reduce distancing in the Library from 17 August.

While the government no longer have specific rules regarding social distancing or face-coverings, we still want to make sure that the Library is as safe as possible for our users and our staff so we’re continuing some safety measures.

More study spaces

The reduction in distance between study spaces to one metre means we’ll be back to around 80% of our pre-Covid seating availability by mid-September. This means that by the new academic year, there will more access to study spaces. You must continue to book your study sessions in advance.

You will still be able to book some seats on every floor with two metre distancing. these will be clearly marked on the study space booking system.

We’ll make the changes gradually floor by floor over the rest of the summer. Starting with level ten and level 13 of the Edward Boyle Library, we will increase study space availability weekly.

Browsing across all campus libraries

You can now browse the bookshelves in all campus libraries, if you’ve booked a study space.

You can take books out using the self-issue machines. You can also return books, as outlined on our returning items webpage.

The Brotherton is open for reduced hours and the round reading room and level two in the West Building are not open for browsing. If you need something held here, please use click and collect.

Click and collect will continue

Alongside in-Library browsing, you will still have the option to use click and collect, and we can still post items out for those who are not able to come to campus.

If you request a book through click and collect, but someone checks it out before our staff pick it for you – it'll be immediately recalled for return. This means it'll be returned within seven days and reserved for you.

Changes to the one-way system

We’re altering our one-way systems to focus on entrances, exits and stairs. You will no longer need to follow a one-way system when in the study spaces or when browsing the bookshelves.

You should continue to observe one-way signage, particularly around entrances, exits and stairwells. We’ve removed the other one-way signage.

Caring for yourself and others

While it is no longer mandatory for you to wear face coverings, please be considerate to other users and Library staff by continuing to wear a face covering while walking around.

Please consider others around you when browsing and keep a safe distance at all times.

Regularly sanitise your hands – there is hand sanitiser available at cleaning stations in all libraries.

Please continue to take lateral flow tests regularly. You can take these on campus or collect at-home testing kits at Cromer Terrace studio. Do not come to the Library if you have recently tested positive or have any symptoms of Covid-19.