IT help
If you're enrolled on one of the University's distance learning and online courses, you can access a range of Library services that are designed for, or useful to, students working away from campus.
Click on the tabs below for more information.
The Library catalogue, YorSearch, includes details of our wide range of resources, such as e-books and e-journals. You can access these from anywhere with an internet connection by logging on with your University username and password.
Search for specific items or use keywords to find items on a topic. To see just what is available online, refine your search to show Full Text Online only using the menu to the left-hand side of your search results. To expand your selection of Full Text Online articles, use the Search Everything tab.
Our E-resources Guide gives you access to additional online resources such as subject databases to help you broaden your research. There are lots of resources to explore, which you can sort by subject area or category (such as newspapers or statistics).
Use our Book Takeaway service to request scans of chapters or articles or postal delivery of books. This service is free for online and distance learners.
Access My Library Account to renew books or to see activity on your account, such as loans and charges. Charges can be paid online using a credit or debit card (except American Express).
We provide access to select University of York theses and dissertations for students. Many of these are available to view online, but some are only available to view in the Library (we can't send them via the Book Delivery service). Contact us if you would like a photocopy of all or part of a thesis.
Your contact details
Please ensure that we are using the correct email address for you by checking My Library Account.
Also, make sure that you have the correct addresses in your term time and home addresses. These can be updated through e:vision. The term time address is the one used for interlending photocopies.
If you're not able to visit the University Library, there are opportunities to access resources from other libraries near you.
Distance learners can use the SCONUL Access scheme, that enables limited borrowing from other Higher Education libraries in the UK or reference access. This scheme operates an online application process that means you can register for access to other libraries without visiting York. You can use catalogues such as Library Hub Discover or Worldcat to search the stock of other libraries. Put your location into Worldcat to find the nearest copy of a particular book.
If you come to campus as part of your degree, you can book onto our free minibus service to the British Library at Boston Spa. You can request books to consult in advance in their Reading Room, giving you access to a vast collection of research materials. The minibus runs on a regular schedule, so you can time your visit to campus accordingly.
LIBER and the European Library list European National Libraries. If you need access to a European library, ask your tutor for an introductory letter, then contact the library you would like to use by email or letter asking about access. It is sometimes helpful to check their website first.
Beyond Europe, you could try your country's national library or a local university. University library websites should have information for visitors, or contact details for further information. You should check the library's access arrangements before you visit; they may also wish to see an introductory letter or other proof of ID.
Distance learning students can also use the Library's Interlending and Document Supply service; this allows you to request books or articles that aren't held in the University Library.
Articles can be sent electronically or via post worldwide. Interlending requests are free but please note that there may be additional postage costs for photocopies.
Please contact us if you have any questions about accessing Library resources or using our services.
Subject Guides help you to find support and resources for your subject area. The Guides also contain contact details for our team of Academic Liaison Librarians. You can contact your Librarian for advice on finding sources, evaluating information, managing your references and more.
Visit our YouTube channel to watch introductory guides to Library services, such as:
The University Library includes a number of different sites and buildings, including the main Library at the Heslington campus and King's Manor in the city centre. If you are planning a visit to the main Library on campus, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Virtual tour
Familiarise yourself with the University Library before your visit:
Floor plans
View the location of subject resources, study areas, PCs and other facilities:
There's a lot more information about the Library on our other webpages. Explore the menu on the top-left of this page to learn more.