Visiting the Library
New readers, not in possession of a current Cambridge University Library card, should contact the Library’s Admissions Office (email: admissions@lib.cam.ac.uk or phone: 01223 333084) in advance of a planned visit for information about admission to the Library and to book an appointment to obtain a card. Further details and an online application form are available at: http://www.lib.cam.ac.uk/admissions/ and http://www.lib.cam.ac.uk/admissions/eligibility.html
- Researchers wishing to consult photographs, manuscripts or archival collections within the RCS Library, should request library tickets allowing them access to the Manuscripts Reading Room.
- Those wishing to consult printed books, pamphlets or periodicals should request a ticket that gives access to the Rare Books Room.
- Those wishing to consult official publications, microfilms or maps should request access to the Commonwealth Room, Microform Reading Room and Map Room respectively.
- If in doubt, please contact the Smuts Librarian (email: rcs@lib.cam.ac.uk) before contacting the Admissions Office.
In addition, readers wishing to consult a particular archive or manuscript are advised to contact the Smuts Librarian in writing or by email (rcs@lib.cam.ac.uk), giving as much notice as possible. Many collections have yet to be catalogued online, or in any detail, and it can therefore be difficult to ascertain quickly the location of items within some collections.