Library's response to the coronavirus.

Library, Archives and Learning Services takes the health and wellbeing of our staff and students in the University community seriously.  From the 19th July we will slowly start to raise some of the restrictions that have been in place.  These pages will be updated as we increase on-site services.

Library opening hours

Both libraries remain open for self-service, study and access to resources.  We are currently operating our vacation opening hours.

Please remember to maintain social distance from other library users and staff members when in the spaces.  

Please wear a face covering when indoors and in crowded spaces unless you are exempt; this includes the Library spaces.  

You will be asked to wear a face covering when speaking to staff.  If exempt, you may be asked to move to a screened area.

Returning books

You can return items via the Book Return Box in the lobby of the Docklands Library and using the self-return unit at Stratford Library during building opening hours.

From Monday 19th July we will no longer be quarantining returned items.  However, we are still operating with reduced staffing onsite so items may remain on your account for up to 2 working days after you return them whilst staff work through any backlogs.

Borrowing books - Click and Collect

You can visit the library to browse the shelves and borrow books.  However, if you want to minimise your time in the library you can request available items for collection at Stratford and Docklands libraries.  

NB due to current restrictions you can only place requests on items currently available in the library.

To request an item:

1.  sign in to Library Search

2. find the titles you want and click Request, you can make a maximum of 5 requests

We will email you when your requested items are ready to collect. Do not travel to the Library to collect items if you have not received this email.

·    You will have seven days from the date of the email to collect your items, after that, the request will be cancelled.

·    You will be able to collect your items throughout the building opening hours 

·    Items will be shelved by your University ID number and will be ready at the collection points:

· Docklands Library – first floor

· Stratford Library – ground floor

·    You must issue the items using the self-service machines before leaving the Library.

·    We are unable to post items – only in-person collection is available.

Due dates

Any library books that you have borrowed will renew automatically unless your account it is blocked or you have finished your studies.  We will email you asking you to return the items if this happens.

If you have finished your studies we are not able to extend the due dates of your items. Please make arrangements to return them as soon as possible. You will not incur any overdue charges on these items at this time.

Enquiries

We are not able to offer face-to-face enquiry services. However, you can still get in touch with us by emailing library@uel.ac.uk or our online chat service

Keeping our students, staff, and spaces safe

Please remember to put your face covering on before entering the building and ensure it covers your mouth and nose throughout your time in the library. Some exemptions apply; remember that not all disabilities are visible so be understanding of customers who are not able to wear a covering.  You will be asked to wear a face covering when speaking to staff.  If exempt, you may be asked to move to a screened area.

Hand sanitiser and washing stations are provided for you to clean your hands before and after using shared surfaces such as the self-service

Do not travel if you or anyone in your family is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.

Inter-library Loans

Requests

We continue to fulfil inter-library loan requests in a digital format where possible. All other requests will be put on hold, and electronic alternatives offered where possible. We will update these pages as and when we are able to

Inter-library loan books

If you have an inter-library loan book, please keep it with you until the Library desk reopens with a staffed service. Where possible, your inter-library loan books will be renewed; if this is not possible you will not incur any overdue charges.

Online library resources

We have a wide range of online books and journals available through Library Search.

Subject support

We are offering online 1:1 appointments with our Academic Services Librarians. To book these, email your Librarian with an overview of what you want to cover and they will get back to you to arrange a suitable time.

Visitor Access to Library and Archives

Due to reduced capacity in the library spaces, access is for current UEL students, staff and alumni passport holders only. 

We are not accepting SCONUL Access or other external visitors until further notice.