Can I access King's libraries if I'm from another University?

Answer

Undergraduates and Taught Postgraduates from the Open University.
PhD Level Students as well as Academics and Support Staff from a non-King's institution.
Taught Postgraduates as well as Undergraduates from a non-King's institution.

Open University undergraduates and taught postgraduates

Open University undergraduates and taught postgraduates can apply for reference access as an independent researcher. Please see the "How can I visit the library as an independent researcher" FAQ for more details.

PhD level students and Academic & Support staff

Visting the library only (no borrowing)

Please complete a SCONUL Band-A – Library visit form to receive a temporary e-pass for accessing King's College London libraries as a registered SCONUL Band-A user (note: this will only allow you access to the library, not King’s Buildings). This pass will allow you to visit the library only during library staffed hours and does not include the option of borrowing books.

If your application for a Library Visit pass is successful, during your visit please make sure you have a valid form of photo ID with you. Security can still deny access to Library Visit Pass holders if sufficient identification is not available.

Please plan your visit in advance. You should receive a reply and your e-pass (if your application is successful) within 3 working days

You will be required to accept the Library Regulations as part of the library visit process.
Important note: Before completing this form, please make sure you have an active SCONUL Band-A status. You will be asked to attach your registration confirmation email as part of your request to visit our libraries.

24hr Access with a Kings ID and borrowing rights

PhD level students and Academic & Support staff who are registered SCONUL Band-A users also have the option to apply for a King's ID card. As a King's ID card holder, you will be abel to borrow up to 5 books (standard loan items only). Before completing the form, please make sure you have an active SCONUL Band-A status. You will be asked to attach your registration confirmation email as part of your request to visit our libraries. If you already have an active SCONUL Band-A status, please our SCONUL Band-A joining form to start your application.

Taught postgraduates and undergraduates

Taught postgraduates and undergraduates from other British and Irish universities that participate in the SCONUL Summer Vacation Scheme may visit the main (the Maughan, New Hunt’s House, Weston Education Centre and Franklin Wilkins) King's libraries during the Library Summer Vacation:

27 June - 29 August 2025

Visits are restricted to library staffed hours only.

Required identification for security:

Proof of enrolment at a university or college of higher education in the institutional members of SCONUL list or a current library card, provided it shows the holder as an undergraduate or taught postgraduate.
A valid form of ID.

Access will be reference only (no borrowing is possible). Please note that these dates may not always coincide with those of other institutions.

For all external library users, please note:

Access to a limited selection of e-resources is available via a small number of public access (VERA) PCs.
Reference access is available to all our print resources.
Visitors to King's libraries can use many of the same printing and photocopying services available to staff and students. Read about visitor printing services and how to register for a guest print account. These facilities are available in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright, Design and Patents Act, 1988.
Free visitor Wi-Fi is available through 'King's Guest Wi-Fi'. Visit the King's IT services webpage for registration details.
The eduroam wireless network service may also be available if you belong to a participating institution. Eduroam login details can be used to access this network at King's Library sites.