People in South Gloucestershire now have access to 22 university and 11 college libraries in this area.
There is a wide range of libraries in this area that can support you in 'Lifelong Learning' and finding information. Whether you are studying for a qualification or are simply studying for your own enjoyment, you can use all the participating public and academic libraries.
The public libraries will offer general collections and you will be able to borrow from them. The libraries in the colleges and universities will offer access to more specialised material which will support your learning and research. However, you will not usually be able to borrow materials to use at home and you should check the access arrangements for each library you would like to visit.
Many of the libraries have on-line catalogues so that you can check before you visit to see which resources you will be able to access. In the south-west licensing agreements mean that it will not be possible to access some electronic resources in the academic libraries. Catalogues for libraries in the LibrariesWest partnership can also be accessed via the Wisdom site.
The staff in all libraries will be pleased to help you with your enquiries. At certain periods some libraries may restrict access to members of the public.
What do I need to do if I want to use a library?
Ask the staff in your own library first. They can advise you on the best library to use and may be able to check the resources they have. They will also be able to advise you on any current restrictions on access.
- Have some means of identity – a library card from your own library is ideal
- Respect the regulations of the library you are using
- Understand that there will be certain services you cannot use in some libraries and that access may be restricted at certain periods