Sometimes the book, chapter, or article you need for your assignment just isn’t available on our shelves or through our online subscriptions. The good news? You still have lots of ways to get hold of the materials you need — from requesting items through our Document Delivery Service to visiting other academic and national libraries.
Here’s your guide to accessing all those hard‑to‑find resources.
1. Request Items Through Our Library Services
Document Delivery Service (Inter‑Library Loans)
If we don’t have a book or journal in our collection, we can often borrow it from another library for you through our Document Delivery Service. Once registered, this service allows you to request books or articles, from participating libraries across the UK. Many students find this service helpful for specialist materials not held locally.
ArticleRequest (Journal Articles to Your Inbox)
Need a specific article we don’t subscribe to? Our ArticleRequest service can deliver journal articles directly to your mailbox. Students regularly use this for research projects when access is limited by publisher restrictions.
These services are great first stops — quick, convenient, and designed to support your studies wherever you are.
2. Visit Another Academic Library with the SCONUL Access Scheme
If you prefer working with physical collections or need access to specialist materials, the SCONUL Access scheme opens the doors to hundreds of university libraries across the UK and Ireland. This scheme allows eligible students and staff to use (and sometimes borrow from) other participating academic libraries.
How SCONUL Helps You
- Access quiet study spaces
- Use print collections
- Borrow materials (eligibility varies)
- Study closer to home during holidays
To join, simply apply online via the SCONUL website and wait for your approval email. Then take your university ID along during your visit.
3. Explore National Libraries
British Library (London & West Yorkshire)
If you’re heading to London, consider a visit to the British Library, one of the world’s largest research libraries. With millions of items from across centuries, it’s a treasure trove for in‑depth research. Many universities guide their students toward this option for specialist research. There is also an option to visit the British Library in West Yorkshire.
National Library of Scotland (Closer to Home!)
If London’s a bit of a trek, the National Library of Scotland is a fantastic alternative. Anyone can join, and it offers extensive digital and print collections — ideal for Scottish-based students. Registration requires proof of identity and address, and you can apply online.
4. Use Local Public Libraries
Public libraries can be surprisingly useful for academic study:
- Bridge of Allan Library
- Stirling Library
- Glasgow’s online library, including access to the Mitchell Library, one of Europe’s largest public libraries
These libraries offer additional borrowing options, quiet study spaces, and community resources — perfect if you’re studying off‑campus or living locally.
5. Suggest a Book or Resource for the Library to Buy
If you think something is missing from our collection that others would benefit from too, you can recommend it! Students and staff are welcome to suggest books, films, or other learning materials for purchase. It’s an easy way to help shape the library’s collection and support future learners.
In Summary
Even if we don’t have the material you need on our shelves, you still have plenty of options:
- First, check our library catalogue and online resources — we already provide access to a vast range of books, journals, databases, and digital content, so the item you need may already be available.Request it via ArticleRequest or the Document Delivery Service
- Request it via ArticleRequest or the Document Delivery Service
- Visit another university library through SCONUL Access
- Explore national collections at the British Library or National Library of Scotland
- Use local or online public libraries
- Recommend new purchases
Wherever your studies take you, there’s always a way to get the resources you need.