There really is no typical Open University (OU) student. People of all ages and backgrounds study with us, for all sorts of reasons – to update their skills, get a qualification, boost their career, change direction, prove themselves, or keep mentally active. One thing they do all have in common, however, is that they are learning with us from a distance.
As a distance learner, you may find it helpful to access a library closer to you. This could be because you want to access reading material that we do not have in our collections, or simply that you want a quiet, study-orientated space to visit where you can focus on your studies. As an OU student, we have good news for you…
The Open University belongs to a national scheme called SCONUL Access, which enables you to study at and borrow books from many other university libraries in the UK and Ireland. And it’s free! As long as you’re currently registered on a module worth 30 credits or more, or are a member of staff, you are eligible – and each time you sign up for another module after that, we can simply renew your membership. Full eligibility details can be found in the OU’s SCONUL Access Policy.
Joining or renewing SCONUL Access
You do not need an OU Library card to join the SCONUL Access scheme – you only need to apply for one if you want to visit the Walton Hall campus library located in Milton Keynes. When you sign up using the online form and it asks you for library ID, just pop in your OU PI (personal identifier) number or staff number.
You can apply for SCONUL Access or renew your membership at any time during your module. You must be fully registered on your module to do this.
It can take up to 21 working days to process your application, so make sure you apply early enough. Once your application is approved, you will receive an official SCONUL Access acceptance email. With this acceptance email, you can use any of the libraries on the list (you do not need to apply for each library).
Visiting your chosen library
When you visit your chosen library, you will need to take with you a copy of the acceptance email (either a printout or shown on your phone/laptop) and an acceptable form of photo ID. If you are unsure, please check with your chosen library which form of ID they will accept before visiting them.
Some libraries may offer extra services that are not part of your access, such as use of their computer facilities or online resources. Contact your chosen library to check what services are available before you visit.
To find out which libraries are currently accepting SCONUL Access students and staff visit the SCONUL Access website.
Libraries near you for overseas students
For students who are not based in the UK or Republic of Ireland, there are some international options:
- The British Council has a database of libraries and services in many countries. There may be a charge to join, which varies from country to country, and the services that are offered will vary. Search for ‘Library’ on the British Council website.
- Our external Libraries and catalogues pagefeatures a list of libraries in other parts of the world, and links to library catalogues. Note that access to libraries varies and books may not be in English.
- For a set fee, you can get articles through Secure Electronic Delivery with the British Library On Demand.
- You may be able to arrange inter-library loans. Contact your local public library or the National Library of the country you are in. Find yours in this list of National Libraries.
Students tell us that being part of the scheme has a positive impact by supporting their studies and wellbeing. Here’s what some students had to say:
As I do not live local to an OU campus, it is helpful to be in the university environment to motivate and facilitate my studies. Accessing other university libraries allows me to have the benefits of a brick uni while having the flexibility of distance learning.
Having a separate space after a hard day working has been great and great to be motivated by other students that you can see slogging hard. I passed my module with a distinction as a result. Thank you for this service. All the staff connected to it at The OU are fab.
The SCONUL Access scheme gave me the opportunity to find a welcoming, positive and quiet place in which to study. As a low income, distance learning student, I feel this has been instrumental in my successes so far as an OU student.
For more information on the SCONUL Access scheme and how to get involved, visit the Using other libraries and SCONUL Access page on the library website. If you have any questions or need further support, the Library Helpdesk offers live online help through our 24-hour chat service available 7 days a week.
The Library Services website is your gateway to a wide range of online information resources. You can use it to find out more about the Library, search our extensive online collection of Library resources (including eBooks, journals, databases and more), and explore our programme of live online training sessions that are available to all OU students and staff. Or indeed, come and speak with us at the Library Helpdesk: we look forward to it. And keep up to date with us by liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter.
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