Library Services for the Public
Any member of the general public is entitled to use the University Library for reading and reference purposes. This applies to all branch libraries: Central, Education, EPS, Law, and Macmillan Brown.
You may:
- Browse any books and journals on the open access shelves
- Use the Library Catalogue
- Receive basic assistance from the Information Desks
- Purchase a photocopying "casual card"
- Use archival materials held in the Macmillan Brown Library*
- Request items from the closed stack collection in the Macmillan Brown Library
* Archival materials are not collected during the weekend. It is advisable to make arrangements in advance of a visit with either the Macmillan Brown Librarian or the archivist. (Contacts)
You will receive assistance with:
- locating relevant library materials
- finding information
- finding your way around
You may not:
- Borrow any materials
- Use the Interloan Service
- Request any items from Closed Stack collections (with the exception of the Macmillan Brown Library)
- Use any of the electronic databases
- Access the Internet
- Have guaranteed access to seating in the Library
High demand periods
There are times during the year when library services and space will be in very high-demand. These are before mid-year and end-of-year exams.
During these times public users will need to be aware that services and seating will be given to University of Canterbury students who are our priority users.
Interested in subscribing as an external member?
Anyone resident within the Canterbury region may become an external member of the University Library. This gives certain limited borrowing privileges upon payment of an annual, six-monthly, or monthly fee.