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Cambridge University Library

 

zero contact service

We have designed a range of zero-contact services to safely expand access to world-class physical collections not available in electronic format.

Unable to visit the library? Start by exploring the libraries online. If the material you need isn't available in electronic form, Scan & Deliver offers an electronic delivery service, or you can gain enhanced remote access to Special Collections items via the Virtual Reading Room.

Click & Collect allows you to order print material online and collect it from the library entrance.  

To enable these services to run safely and consistently, it is really important that you order only what you need.

Zero contact services at the University Library

  • Scan & Deliver - request an individual scanned copy of one chapter (or 5%) of a monograph or one article per issue of a journal from the modern collections held in Cambridge University Libraries, subject to relevant conservation approval and copyright permission. You may order free low resolution digital scans of Special Collections items for personal research use if the material you need is suitable for scanning and the volume of your request is reasonable. 

You may also use this form to request a printout of a chapter or article from any material held by the library as Electronic Legal Deposit, normally accessible only via designated computers. 

  • Virtual Reading Room - engage the help of our expert curators who can discuss your questions over the phone or via a video call. They may also be able to check material on your behalf in order to answer specific questions or consult the material with you via a video call. This service is available to all.

  • Click & Collect - order selected physical books and journals through a webform, then make an appointment to collect the items from the main entrance of Cambridge University Library.  Our Click & Collect service requires a large number of staff and lots of time to run. If you are able to visit the Library in person instead, it enables us to provide more services to more people.

  • Users are able to return books to the UL or to drop boxes on other library sites. 

Please note that Click & Collect and Scan & Deliver are only available to some current staff and students (including ICE staff and students, and NHS partners). However, all users can visit the University Libraryand borrowing is possible if your membership currently permits this. 
 
Zero-contact services are also available in many Faculty and Department libraries; please check the website of the library you want to use.   
 

If you are visiting our libraries in person, please read our current guidance on staying safe ahead of your trip.