Access and borrowing

Staff and students of the University may register to borrow.  Non-members of the University may be admitted for reading only (permission should be sought via email).

Access for readers with disabilities

The Seeley has moved to a temporary new space within the University Library. The interim Seeley Library has been built in the space that runs alongside the Main Reading Room on the first floor (step-free access is available). This includes what some people may know as the West Room and some additional space. View map.

For information on accessiblity to the University Library see their Accessbility and disabled users webpage.

You can also contact us by email at seeley@hist.cam.ac.uk if you need assistance. The Seeley team are happy to fetch material from the shelves and assist with any enquiries. The Seeley offers a 'Click and Collect' service for students who cannot access our collections. Please contact the library directly (via email) if you would like books to be made available at the reference desk so that you (or someone you select) can collect items.

If you would like further information about the general facilities and services provided for readers with disabilities, please see Cambridge Libraries: accessibility and disability guide

About this guide - Cambridge libraries: accessibility & disability - LibGuides at University of Cambridge Subject Libraries

Borrowing

To borrow, please take your University Card and books to the self issue terminal located in the West Room of the University Library. You can also borrow from the West Room information desk.  

Returning

Seeley Library material will be able to be returned to:
• The Seeley Library inside the University Library
• The University Library Reader Services Desk (main entrance hall)
• The Book Drop in the converted phonebox outside the University Library (24/7).

Staff, postgraduates and undergraduates have the same borrowing rights. 

• Term-time: six items may be borrowed. Items will automatically renew but can be recalled.
• Vacation: typically six items may be borrowed. Items will automatically renew. Items cannot be recalled during vacation
• Special Subject material: One day, or from Friday to Monday

There is extended borrowing over the vacations for all books, but please note that Special Subject material remains as One-day loan borrowing except when the library is closed. Special Subject material can be borrowed the day before the library closes for Christmas, Easter or the summer closure, and must be returned on the day the library reopens.

Lost items

A fine of £30.00 is charged for a lost loan and is not refundable if the item is subsequently returned. Outstanding fines must also be paid.