LibAnswers

If you can demonstrate a need to use our libraries to access print material not easily available elsewhere, you can now apply to visit our libraries. Visits are restricted to library staffed hours only.

Please complete our Library Visit form to apply for a temporary e-pass for accessing King's College London libraries as an Independent Researcher (note: this will only allow you access to the library, not King’s Buildings). Before submitting your application, please check if the material you would like to access is available in the British Library catalogue. You will be asked to specify the books and/or journals you wish to access.

We do not allow visiting requests only for use of study space. 

If your application 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 fill out the application form and plan your visit in advance. You should receive a reply and your e-pass (if your application is successful) within five working days.

Visits to Special Collections 

You can find more information separate process on how to visit KCL Special Collections as an Independent Researcher here. 

Visits to Archives

You can find more information on how to visit KCL Archives as an Independent Researcher here

Independent Researchers (paid subscriptions)

Private researchers, members of the public and visitors from institutions, not eligible for the SCONUL Access or Access25 schemes, are also welcome to apply for an Independent Researcher membership if they can demonstrate a need to use our libraries to access print material not easily available elsewhere.

Before submitting your application, please check if the material you would like to access is available in the British Library catalogue. You will be asked to specify the books and/or journals you wish to access.

We do not allow Independent Researcher membership requests only for use of study space. 

Important: This membership option does not apply for members of Associated Organisations. Please, check our relevant FAQ page for more information.

Independent Researchers who wish to borrow books, need to fill out a Library membership form.
The subscription cost is £60 for 6 months.

Independent Researchers with a subscription will be provided with an ID card for swipe access outside of staffed hours (subject to library opening times) and will be able to borrow up to 5 books (you can take out up to five books in one go but you’re only allowed to have a total of five books on your account).

Please, always carry your Independent Researcher library card and a form of ID with you if you would like to visit our libraries outside library staffed hours or borrow books. If you have forgotten your Independent Researcher library card, you can only visit by showing a valid Visitor Pass to security during library staffed hours. You will not be able to borrow books without your Independent Researcher library card.

For all external library users, please note:

• Access to a limited selection of e-resources is available via a few public access (VERA) PCs.
  Please speak to library staff for access.
   
• 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.