The standard borrowing allowance for individual annual members is 15 for all members. 

The standard borrowing allowance for institutional members is 15 volumes at a time.

The standard borrowing allowance for schools' membership is 25 volumes at a time.

Additional borrowing allowance can be purchased in increments of 5 volumes, up to a maximum total allowance of 40. To increase your allowance, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone us on 020 7766 4720.

Due to the coronavirus measures, all Library members have had their book allowance increased by 5. 

Most books can be kept for at least one month initially and are automatically renewed unless requested by another member. New books are available to borrow for 14 days; they may be renewed if not requested by another member.

There are no overdue fines but we do ask that books are returned to the Library for renewal once a year so that we can assess their condition. All members are liable for the full cost of replacing any books not returned or renewed on request, that are outstanding at the end of membership or if they are significantly damaged.

Search the online catalogue (Catalyst) and select items to be set aside or posted to you.

You can also borrow by email by requesting items at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

You can collect books at the Library or browse the stacks and take out items at the Issue Desk.

You can find detailed information on searching the catalogue, browsing and borrowing on our dedicated website page