University User Services Librarian Mary Bartholomew, who was an enthusiastic advocate for the scheme, said that she hoped that opening library services to local students would benefit young people who may not otherwise have a suitable environment to study.
She said: “This will help to support student development and progression onto further study or employment and hopefully provide a positive experience of university libraries to 16 to 19-year-olds who may not have had previous experience of a higher education environment. We are also open at times when school libraries may be closed.”
Vicky Johnson, Head of guidance at BHASVIC, spoke of the positive impact that the membership scheme would have: “I think the use of university libraries could have a huge impact on some students, especially those for whom family situations don’t allow for the time and situation to create ideal study spaces or situations. I see the potential in this to influence and raise aspiration as they ingratiate themselves in the diversity of university students and the culture of learning that universities bring. Not to mention the access to literature that enhances their subject knowledge.”
Although the 16-19 external library membership does not include borrowing the collections can be browsed and utilised for reference purposes. The collections can be searched via
School and college students can access the library collections and non-bookable library study spaces throughout the year including vacations by showing their ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ external library membership card.
Any student interested in applying for membership can fill out the application form on in the ‘Visiting the library, external membership and alumni services’ section on the ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ website where further information including opening hours can be found.