A number of membership options are available for visitors wishing to use our study space or borrow books from Bournemouth University's libraries.

Please see below for an explanation of the membership types we offer, and check details of how to join the library.

We are unable to provide access to university computers, printers and photocopiers, or our electronic resources (databases, e-journals, e-books etc) as these are acquired under licence for exclusive use of Bournemouth University staff and students. Also please note that reference and most external members will only have access to our Talbot campus library.

Reference membership

A reference card enables those who live in the BH postcode area to use the study areas and refer to our printed materials within the confines of the library. You will not be able to borrow books.

See how to join the library.

External borrowers

As an external borrower, you can borrow up to three books at a time.

External membership is free if you fall into one of the following categories:

  • Bournemouth University Alumni Association members (former staff and students)
  • Staff and students of the Arts University Bournemouth
  • Staff and students of Bournemouth & Poole College
  • Staff and students of Weymouth College
  • SCONUL Access members - students, researchers and academic staff who have been accepted into the SCONUL Access scheme.

See how to join the library

Subscription borrower membership

On payment of an annual fee, you can become a subscription member of the BU library.

You can borrow up to 12 books at a time. You can also make use of our hold facility to reserve any book that is on loan to another user.

Membership of the BU library is offered at the following annual rates:

£39 (inc VAT) per year Teachers at publicly-funded schools; BU Alumni Association members; Staff and students (level four and above) of public UK Higher Education establishments
£70 (inc VAT) per year Individuals who do not fall into the categories above
£126 (inc VAT) per year Companies or other corporate bodies

See how to join the library

For subscription membership, please ensure you contact our Library Support team in advance for details of how to join and to pay your membership fee.