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Cambridge University Library

 

The following categories of readers can apply for access to the University Library (for full details of entitlements and required documentation, please refer to Eligibility for access).

  • Alumni of the University of Cambridge
  • Current students and academic staff from other UK universities
  • Private and business researchers if their research requires access to materials held at the University Library

For private researchers, the following options are available:

  • One week temporary card (free of charge, once in a twelve month period)
  • One month (£5)
  • Six months (£15)
  • One year (£30)
  • Three years (£90)

Please note that researchers wishing to access the University Library must be aged 16 years or over. Those aged 16 and 17 must include a signed permission form from their parent or guardian.

If you are unable to submit your registration online, contact us by email on registration@lib.cam.ac.uk or call 01223 333030. We have a limited number of in-person appointments available.

 

To register or renew your membership, please complete the webform below.

Once your card has been processed you will be emailed confirmation and an online link to pay for your card (if applicable). Your card will then be available for when you arrive for your next visit.

We are currently receiving a high volume of registration requests. We will try to process your application by the date of your next visit, but please accept our apologies for the delay and do not visit before you receive email confirmation. 

Waiting time: 1-3 days
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Please allow at least one full working day for applications to be processed. Cards can be collected 9am to 7pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 4:45pm Saturday.  The Library is closed on Sundays.
A library card does not permit remote access to electronic resources. Remote access to electronic resources requires a Raven account. Raven accounts are issued via departments, to current members of the University and affiliated institutions only.
Due to the period of closure during the national Lockdowns, when renewing we will extend all cards that expired from March 2020 onwards for one year, free of charge. Alumni cards will be renewed for three years as usual.
If you are a current member of the University, renew your blue University card by contacting your College/Department Card Representative. To enquire about your library account, email us on: registration@lib.cam.ac.uk
If so, you will be prompted to upload supporting documentation on the next page. This could be a letter of appointment or a 5.4 form.
Due to the period of closure during the national Lockdowns, when renewing we will extend all cards that expired from March 2020 onwards for one year, free of charge.