Breadcrumbs

About us

The Library is on the north side of the Main Quad, facing the Chapel and Vaughan. The entrance is in the middle of the building, up a short flight of stairs. Level access to the ground floor of the library is available on application to the Porters Lodge. Unfortunately there is currently no lift in the Library.

Access

The Library is open to members of the College via their access card 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except the period between Christmas and New Year when the College is closed).

Non-Somerville members of Oxford University may consult items in the library that are not otherwise available from one of the Bodleian or Faculty Libraries. Please contact us in advance to make sure the item you require is available. Access is available only during staffed hours.

Members of the Somerville Association may consult items in the library during staffed hours by prior appointment.

Borrowing limits and fines

Members of the College may borrow an unlimited number of books, provided they are all checked out properly and the borrower complies with the library rules. 

Loan periods for books are normally for one term or one vacation.

For further information, please read the Library rules.

Gifts to the Library

We are always delighted to receive gifts of Somervillians' own publications. 

If you would like to donate any other books, please contact the Librarian, who will be happy to advise. Unfortunately due to lack of space we cannot take unsorted large collections of books.