Borrowing and Returning Books
Finding books
If you know what book(s) you're looking for, you can use the University-wide online library catalogue, iDiscover, to search for titles and authors. You can filter by library (e.g. 'Whipple Library') to see which items are held in specific locations. To get the best results, see the University's guide to using iDiscover.
You can also browse the physical shelves in the Whipple Library. Our books are organised by subject and time period. To see more about our classification scheme, see our webpage.
How to borrow a book
You can come to the Library in person to find and borrow books. You can borrow books using the Self-Issue machine located beside the enquiry desk, or a member of staff will be happy to issue them at the desk.
You will need to have your University Card in order to borrow books.
Who can borrow?
All current staff, students, visitors and alumni with an active University or University Library card are welcome to borrow from the Whipple Library.
Loan rules
Number of books
Members of University staff may borrow up to 20 books at a time. All other library users may borrow up to 10 books at a time.
Loaning periods
All books on our open shelves are issued for 4 weeks at a time. All non-Reserve loans will auto-renew for as long as you have an active borrowing account. If a recall is placed on a book, it must be returned within 3 working days.
Books from our Reserve collection are due back by the end of the next working day. Please consult with a member of staff if you require a Reserve book for a longer period.
We do not issue fines for overdue books, but please respect loaning periods and return books in a timely manner.
Loaning rules may differ for those with a Student Support Document.
Managing loans
You can see an overview of your loans and requests at any time via your account on iDiscover. You will receive automated statements of the books you have on loan at the beginning of each month.
During term time, you can use iDiscover to request any book that is currently on loan. Recalls are not available outside of term.
How to return books
Please leave book returns on the Library enquiry desk.
Outside of hours, you can deposit book returns via the slot in the main Department door on Free School Lane.