Learning and Teaching: Become a Member: Member of the Public

How to apply for Public Membership

Members of the public who require access to resources not available through the public library service may join the University of Suffolk Library for an annual fee of £30. Please note that we are unable to provide general access to our study spaces; your application must outline why you require access to our collections.

Public members benefit from the following privileges:

Access to library study spaces and services during our opening hours.
Loan up to four (4) items at any one time.
On-site access to eResources upon completion of the Guest Computer User and Walk-in User Agreement.
Use of our printing facilities.
Access to our Interlibrary Loan Scheme (additional charges apply).

Please note that due to licensing restrictions, we are unable to provide off-site access to eResources for External Members. eResources include both online journals/journal articles and eBooks.

Apply for Public Membership
To apply for Public Membership, please complete the application form below. Please note that the form requires the following:

A brief letter outlining why you require access to the library
An electronic passport style photograph

Public Membership Application Form (Online Form)

If your application is approved, we will notify you to proceed with payment of the membership fee. Once payment is successfully completed, we will generate your library account and issue your access card. Please note that the waiting period may vary depending on the time of year, with an average processing time of 10 to 14 days.

Access cards can be collected from the reception desk in the Waterfront Building. Please make sure to bring valid photo identification when collecting your card. If you require collection outside of regular working hours, kindly inform us in advance so that we can arrange for your card to be securely held by our security team.

Renewing your membership

Please check the renewals tab for more information about renewing your membership or find the membership renewal form below.

Membership renewal form (online form)

If your renewal is approved, we will notify you via email to proceed with payment of the membership fee.

Once payment is received, we will update the expiry of your library account and re-issue your access card. Please note that the waiting period may vary depending on the time of year, with an average processing time of 5-8 days.