Request it!
Request any library item not in our collection. We'll try to acquire it through purchase or borrowing. Check Library Search before making a request.
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Welcome to your one-stop shop for requesting items not currently in our Library collection. This includes articles, book chapters, or entire books.
While we strive to fulfil all requests, some limitations may apply due to:
- availability,
- copyright restrictions,
- costs,
- condition of materials.
If any issues arise with your request, we’ll keep you informed.
Before requesting an item you must first check that it is not already available in Library Search. We will not purchase items that we already have. If more than one copy is required or it is Reading List material, please see alternative purchase suggestion routes below.
If you want us to collect an existing item off the library shelves for you, try the Click and Collect service.
How long will it take?
- Books
If we don't have a book you need, we may borrow it through inter-library loans (ILL). ILL books typically take 8-10 days to arrive by post, though some may take longer. We'll notify you by email when your book is ready for collection.
If an ILL is not possible, we'll consider purchasing the book for our collection. We will purchase eBooks where possible, which are usually available within a few days via Library Search - we’ll email you when it's accessible. For print books, we'll inform you when they’re ready for collection, usually within 4-6 weeks.
- Articles and Book Chapters
Need an article or book chapter? We can usually obtain these via inter-library loans too. Most requests are fulfilled within one working day and will be delivered to you as a PDF via email. To ensure timely delivery, please submit any resource requests needed for assignments as soon as you can.
- Other Materials
For other library materials such as scores, DVDs and standards, please ask for expected wait times.
Alternative purchase suggestion routes
- Lecturers needing books for a reading list should see Reading Lists or contact an Academic Support Librarian.
- Students can use the Library Champions scheme if an item you want is always in use or would be of benefit to other students.