Alumni access to the library
Arts & Social Sciences Library closure
The Arts & Social Sciences Library is currently closed whilst we create some new spaces on the ground floor. From Monday 15 September the Day Reader Scheme is suspended and we will only be processing applications for SCONUL band A, B and C while we prioritise study space for our own staff and students. Please contact lib-access@bristol.ac.uk if you have urgent need for access to our collections.
University of Bristol graduates can continue to make use of our print collections with a Graduate Visitor Card (free) or with a Graduate Borrowing Card (£60).
Day Reader pass (free and immediate access)
If you only need to visit the library once or on an infrequent basis, it is quickest and easiest to apply for a Day Reader pass to the Arts and Social Sciences Library. You will need to bring some photo ID. Follow the link for more information.
Graduate Visitor Card (free)
If you need continued access to the library, apply for 3 years of reading and reference access to the Arts and Social Sciences Library. This will allow you to:
- Access to the Arts and Social Sciences Library and Wills Memorial Library during staffed hours
- Request books from other libraries for consultation
- Use our free wifi on your own device and these freely available research resources. You will not be able to use our PCs, printers or eResources.
To apply:
- Download and complete the Graduate Visitor Card form 2025 (Office document, 653kB)
- Send it to lib-access@bristol.ac.uk with a recent, colour, ID photograph of yourself as jpeg attachment (to passport-standards, see Photo instructions (PDF, 288kB)).
Processing times may vary (at least 10 working days), please see your application receipt for details on current waiting times and use the Day Reader Pass to access the library whilst you wait.
Graduate Borrower Card (£60 per year)
If you need to borrow books, apply for a paid Graduate Borrower Card.
- Access to the Arts and Social Sciences Library and Wills Memorial Library during staffed hours
- Request books from other libraries for consultation
- Borrow up to 20 books simultaneously
- Use our free wifi on your own device and these freely available research resources. You will not be able to use our PCs, printers or eResources.
To apply:
- Download and complete the Graduate Borrower Card form 2025 (Office document, 652kB)
- Send it to lib-access@bristol.ac.uk with a recent, colour, ID photograph of yourself as jpeg attachment (to passport-standards, see Photo instructions (PDF, 288kB)).
Processing times may vary (at least 10 working days), please see your application receipt for details on current waiting times and use the Day Reader Pass to access the library whilst you wait.
Preparing for your visit
How to check if the book you need is available. How to confirm that you will be able to access it.