The University has found the extra funding via alumni donations, despite the current financial pressures on higher education, in recognition of student feedback and the vital importance to students of an adequate supply of books.
Students are able to recommend a purchase through their subject librarians, in any of the branch libraries, or by completing an online form.
The additional spending follows previous extra funding of £250,000 in 2009/10, as well as ongoing investment in physical improvements to the library buildings.