Proof of identity

For the purposes of safety and security of our users and collections, before we can issue a library card to anyone who is not a member of the University of Edinburgh or registered as an official visitor, we have to see proof of identity (ID) and confirmation of address.

Visitors to Edinburgh University Library

So that we can register you as as a Library member, we ask to see two documents: one which includes a recent photograph (such as a passport or driver's licence), and one which includes your name and current address that you have received within the past 3 months. (For SCONUL Access applicants-see Section below titled ' Students and Staff from other institutions). 

Digital photographs for photo ID /proof of current address will be accepted provided that they are accessed via a digital portal requiring verification eg Railcards, bus passes, bank statements etc. 

Photographs of passports, driving licences, etc. will not be accepted.

Photographic ID

  • Current full UK driving licence
  • Current signed passport
  • National identification card
  • University of Edinburgh Student ID card for Alumni membership
  • Current bus pass/rail card
  • Young Scot card

Name and current address

Proof of address needs to be dated within the last 3 months.

  • Bank or credit card statement
  • Utility bill
  • Payslip with address
  • Police registration document
  • Letter of introduction or personal introduction from the University of Edinburgh
  • Building society passbook (with recent updates)

We do not accept leases/tenancy agreements as proof of address.

Edinburgh Libraries Passport (ELP) holders do not need to bring proof of address in order to register with the Library. For those school students ages 16 and over without ELP or proof of address as highlighted above; these students may present a letter from their School Librarian or Head teacher explaining their requirement to use Edinburgh University Libraries.

Students and staff from other institutions (Including SCONUL Access)

Students from member institutions joining under access schemes (such as SCONUL Access) should bring the relevant scheme confirmation email, as well a Student ID card. No proof of address is required.

If you are not joining under a reciprocal access scheme then full ID ( as listed above) will be required.

Guidance for those in short term temporary accommodation

If you stay in short term temporary accommodation (hotels, hostels, guest houses etc.) and you would like to join the Library, you must present a letter from your place of accommodation confirming that you have been resident there for a minimum of 4 weeks. On production of this letter, along with acceptable photographic ID, a library reference card may be created for a duration of one month. If you wish to renew membership at the end of this period, a new letter from the place of accommodation must be provided to the library.

 

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