Library Services Update
Information about using Library services in 2022/23.
This page will be kept up to date with information about Library & University Collections facilities and services.
Using the Library in 2022/23
All Covid rules and restrictions have been lifted in Scotland. Read the latest guidance:
We are asking our whole University community to play your part and help stop the spread of Covid-19.
Library Updates
Library cards
Your University student card is also your library card, you will need it to access library buildings and borrow print materials. Please use the links below to find updated information on how to request and receive your card.
VIDEO: Apply for and receive your student card (4 minutes)
Library Locations webpages for information on library sites
Visitors and External users
We ask that all Visitors and External users email us at library.account@ed.ac.uk before visiting.
If you have a question about joining the library as an External user please see the Joining the Library page.
Study spaces on a walk up basis are available across all library sites. There are also a small number of bookable study spaces on the 3rd and 5th floors of the Main Library in George Square.
For more information on study spaces please use the links below.
Face coverings are no longer legally required in indoor spaces, however the Scottish Government strongly recommend that you continue to wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces.
We encourage staff and students to continue to wear a face covering in indoor or communal areas on our campuses - for example in corridors, study spaces and libraries , on-campus shops, cafes and restaurants, unless seated to eat or drink - and when required for local health and safety practices.
Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe
University of Edinburgh guidance and FAQ on face coverings
We recognise that some students will be required to quarantine, or self-isolate in their accommodation throughout term.
The Library can offer services which may support students during this time. Please visit our Library support for self-isolating students page for more information.
If you are a new student or you've been unable to visit campus libraries due to self-isolation or quarantine, these guides will provide an introduction to the sites and their resources to prepare you for your visit.
Library Updates Newsletter Library Updates is a monthly online newsletter, sharing the latest news on library services, resources and projects.
Although most SCONUL Access scheme member libraries continue to participate in the scheme, some may not be open to all users. Please check with each library before you visit.
We ask that all Visitors and External users (including SCONUL Access users) email us at library.account@ed.ac.uk before visiting University of Edinburgh libraries.
For more information, please follow links below.
SCONUL Access for University of Edinburgh students and staff
SCONUL Access for staff and students from other universities
Frequently Used Services
- Library Opening Hours
- Finding Resources
- DiscoverEd
- Borrowing books and other resources
- Returns, fines and notices
- Interlibrary Loans
- Request A Book
- Centre for Research Collections
Library opening hours may have to change in response to adverse weather or the COVID-19 situation. Please check our web pages before you visit, and for the latest updates, follow our twitter feeds at @isalerts, @EdUniLibrary&Museums and @EdUniMainLib.
Help and support
- Coronavirus Updates - University page with the latest news about the institution's response to the COVID-19 pandemic
- EdHelp - For general queries about library services or any other student support
- Academic Support Librarians - For support with finding and using resources for research, teaching or study
- Resource Lists - For help with accessing and using resource lists
- Donations - For advice about donating materials to the library
Follow the Library
