1. We've reduced our opening hours

We're open for limited services and the opening hours may be extended or reduced as we move through term. Shorter opening hours means we have more time for cleaning, and it also allows library staff to do some of the work that requires us to be out in the library (shelving, for example), while the library is empty. Visit the Philosophy Library website for current information and updates.

2. We've set a maximum capacity

We know how many people can be in the library while social distancing, and we've set a max capacity, including for each area of the library.

5. We're open by appointment only

So that we don't exceed our maximum capacity, and so we can contact you if we learn that a library user tested positive for COVID-19, everyone who comes into the library will have to book first. This will be really simple, and you won't have to book far in advance.

3. We're asking you to wear a face covering and adopt enchanced hand hygiene

Unless you have a medical exemption, we'll ask you to wear a face covering when you're in the library. We'll also provide plenty of hand sanitiser.

4. We're keeping the windows open in the library space

This is to ensure good air ventilation in compliance with safety guidelines. Please wrap up warm, especially when it is cold outside. 

6. We've introduced new services...

To ensure that as many of you as possible have safe access to books, etc. that aren't available online we're offering the following new services:

• Browse & Borrow: book a 20 minute slot to quickly grab the books you need from the shelves and borrow them at the library desk 
• Click & Collect: if you're immuno-compromised or coming into the physical library is not an option for you, you can request that we fetch books for you ready to collect between 3 and 4pm the following day
• Ask Us Anything: make a one to one online appointment with Jo, the Philosophy Librarian who is happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have about using the library, finding and accessing the readings you need, navigating the readings lists or anything else that you need!

Further details about these services, including how to book appointments, can be found using the links above or via our Getting started 2020/21 pages.  

7. ...and (regrettably) suspended some of the usual ones

As much as we're missing seeing you all regularly in the physical library safety has to come first. 

Sadly, space and staffing constraints mean we're not currently able to offer any study space or access to computers at the moment.  Instead, we're prioritising access to books, etc. that are only available in print using our Browse & Borrow and Click & Collect services described above.

The iDiscover terminals in the library are also switched off to limit the number of touch points so we encourage you to make a list of the books, etc. you need and their classmarks in advance of your appointment and bring it with you.  

8. We're still here to help!

Helping you is the best bit of our jobs so please don't hesitate to contact us - it always brightens our day to hear from you!

What to do about Philosophy books if you're self-isolating

We're very aware there are times when you may need to self-isolate which may come with particular challenges and concerns when it comes to accessing the readings you need or returning library books.  Please don't worry at all - we're here to help!  Contact us with details or any readings you need and we'll do our best to get them to you. 

You will not be fined or penalised in any way for late return of books. If, however, a book you have on loan is requested by another library user and you cannot return it because you are self isolating, please contact us, so that we can help the other library user access what they need.

If you wish to ask a friend to borrow books on your behalf, please just let us know. We'll be able to sort this out for you, but we can't issue books to your library account without confirming your permission first.

If you need help with anything else, please just ask!