IHR Library, Reader Access Update

Using the library

We are pleased to be welcoming new and long established users to the library. Booking is no longer required.

See upcoming opening hours. 

• Please join the IHR Library or renew your membership prior to visiting where possible. Membership is free and can be arranged via the online form.
• You are encouraged to order ahead items with locations IHR onsite store or IHR offsite store via ihr.library@sas.ac.uk.
• Microform readers are available on a first-come first-served basis. If you are making a special visit let us know and one can be reserved for you. 
• Archive visits need to be pre-arranged and usually require at least one week's notice.

Please be aware that opening times sometimes need to change at short notice.  You are advised to check before travelling.

Keeping Study Spaces Safe

Due to the nature of the Library spaces, IHR Library will keep some safety rules in place until further notice.

We're proud to have been able to keep essential Library services running through much of the pandemic and the success of this is due to maintaining Covid-19 rules and systems. We appreciate Library members' support in helping to ensure a safe study environment for all.  

We ask members to continue to:

• Stay alert: check @ihr_library and this webpage for the latest updates before travel.
• Maintain social distancing in the building.
• Face coverings are encouraged.
• Everyday kindness: collaborate with staff to calmly respond to changes that ensure your safety.

Temporary arrangements on visiting the Library

The following temporary arrangements are in place at the IHR building:

• Maintain social distancing in the building.
• Please don’t come to the building if you have any COVID-19 symptoms. 
• Face-coverings are encouraged in the building.
• Hand sanitiser will be available around the building. After using sanitiser, please let your hands dry fully before touching any of the books.  
• The University of London has signed up to the NHS Test and Trace system. You should see information around the building that will enable you to use this if you wish to do so. 
• Photocopiers and scanners will be available, and wipes and hand sanitiser will be provided. We recommend that you use your own camera where possible.  
• Windows will be open to maximise air flow. You may want to bring extra clothing.  
• The common room is open for library readers, but there is no catering available. Social distancing remains in place. Please bring your own water bottle if needed. 
• We are happy to arrange training sessions if you need any help and these can be held online.  

Stay in touch

We provide document supply and enquiry services. You may also find some useful resources for your research in our online guides to Open and Free Access Materials for Research (launched March 2020) and Teaching British Histories of Race, Migration and Empire (August 2020).

Let us know if you have any questions. Contact us at ihr.library@sas.ac.uk or 020 7862 8760.