Independent Researchers

Applications for Independent Researcher access to Queen Mary Libraries will not be processed between 19 December 2024 and 3 January 2025. You will receive a confirmation email when your card is ready to collect in early January. Please note that you will not be able to access Queen Mary Libraries before receiving your card.

Private researchers, members of the public and visitors from institutions not eligible for the SCONUL Access or Access25 schemes are welcome to apply for Independent Researcher membership. You will need to be able to demonstrate a genuine research need for physical resources in our collections.  

 Please note: 

• The maximum length of membership is three months, renewable
• Members are unable to visit our libraries between midnight and 8am, and at Mile End Library, access during term-time (including examination periods) is limited to off-peak hours:
  • Monday to Friday: 6pm to midnight
  • Weekends: 8am to midnight
• Access is reference only, meaning that you will not be able to borrow books
• Independent Research members do not have access to PCs, laptops, e-resources or print services
• Access to Wi-Fi is available
• We reserve the right to restrict access during exam periods. 

Apply for Independent Researcher membership 

1. Complete our membership application form, selecting the Independent Researcher category
2. You will receive an email from Queen Mary Library confirming your card is ready. Please bring photo ID when you come to collect your card from Mile End Library Welcome Desk within staffed hours. 

We aim to process applications within 7 working days.