Closure of St James’s University Hospital Library

Library will close permanently in July 2026

The library located in the Clinical Sciences Building at St James’s University Hospital will close permanently on 31 July 2026, following the end of the current NHS Service Level Agreement (SLA) between Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTHT) and the University of Leeds.

The closure, approved by the University Executive Group, marks the end of an on‑site library presence for both University of Leeds staff based in the Clinical Sciences Building and LTHT staff who have historically accessed University library services under the SLA.

Usage of the library has been consistently low. Book loans from the site have declined to negligible levels and the space itself has seen minimal footfall. The physical environment is also no longer well‑suited to study or research needs.

Michael Fake, Associate Director: Student Learning and Experience for the Libraries, explained that with the SLA concluding, the service will come to an end: “Given the extremely low usage and the end of the agreement supporting the service, continuing to operate the library is no longer viable.”

As part of the closure process, relevant parts of the library’s print collection will transfer to the Health Sciences Library, ensuring continued access for those who need the materials. 

We expect minimal disruption for staff and students, as fewer than 0.1% of university library users currently use the St James’s site. NHS users have access to a study space and adjacent IT room in the ‘Library study centre’ in Bexley Wing, floor 7, which is open 24/7 with NHS staff pass entry.

The Libraries will communicate with affected groups – including current library users, Clinical Sciences Building staff and students on placement – to ensure they are aware of the changes ahead of the 31 July closure.