Skip to Main Content
Library Guides

Library and IT Self Help

Self help articles for Library and IT support

Library and IT Self Help Banner

Visitors

Members of the public, over the age of 18, may use the library for reference purposes provided they have a valid visitor card. The visitor card, which must be applied for in advance, allows for 5 visits per annum.

The library is open to visitor card holders between 08:00 and 18:00 with no access during April/May due to the exam period.

Members of the public have no automatic right of access to University facilities and we reserve the right to refuse entry.

Anyone wishing to use the Library beyond their five visits, or to borrow books, will be able to apply for Borrowing Associate membership of the University Library at a cost of £60.00 per annum, or £30.00 per annum for alumni graduates.

To apply for a visitor card

  • You must be aged 18 or older
  • Fill out the application form attached below, with an up-to-date passport size photograph, and email them to libraryandITenquiries@plymouth.ac.uk
  • Applications for a visitor card are accepted between 01 June and 31 March each year (Applications are not accepted during April and May (exam period).

Once your application has been accepted your Visitor card will be available for collection within 5 working days. You will notified by email when your card is ready to collect. We reserve the right to refuse an application.

Members of the public may reapply for a Visitor card every 12 months by submitting a new application form and current proof of address and photo ID. 

Collecting a visitor card

To collect your card you must provide photo ID and proof of address and age. Copies of ID shown on a mobile device are NOT acceptable proof of ID.

Acceptable Proof of Address Acceptable Photo ID
Utility or Council Tax bill Full UK/EU driving licence
Home insurance policy Passport or National ID card
Bank, building society or credit card statement Bus pass/rail card
TV licence or reminder letter NUS card/University/College card
Car Tax reminder or certificate Work ID

Accessing the Library

A valid Visitor card must be produced and dated to gain entry to the Library.

You will be able to reference our physical library stock and use the guest Wi-Fi.

You will not be able to access:

  • Electronic resources
  • Software or databases
  • Printers
  • PCs
  • Level 0 Learning Space
  • Bookable Study rooms

Other Membership

  • Anyone wishing to use the Library beyond their five visits, or to borrow books, will be able to apply for Borrowing Associate membership of the University Library at a cost of £60.00 per annum, or £30.00 for alumni graduates.
  • SCONUL Access is a reciprocal borrowing scheme which allows many university library members to access facilities at other libraries which belong to the scheme.
  • If you are a student enabler you can get a library access card.