Borrowing and Returns

Undergraduate students borrow up to 20 items; postgraduate students up to 25; staff up to 40. Loan periods are three weeks for standard loans, seven days for short loans and overnight for high-demand items marked with red spine labels. Automatic renewals apply unless another user reserves the item.

Borrow and return using self-issue machines with your student ID card. Receipts confirm due dates; check your library account online for current loans and reservations.

Reserve items on loan through the library catalogue; we email when items are ready for collection from the holds shelf within five working days. Recalled items must be returned within seven days regardless of original due date.

Inter-library loans request books and articles not held at Luma from other libraries; postgraduate students receive a quota of free requests annually.

Overdue fines are £0.20 per day per item up to a maximum of £15 per item. Fines accumulate on short-loan and recalled items at higher rates. Pay fines online or at the help desk; unpaid fines above £20 block further borrowing.

Lost or damaged items incur replacement costs plus processing fees. Report suspected theft to library staff and security.

Luma alumni may apply for borrowing membership for a annual fee. External researchers accessing special collections receive reading room access; borrowing privileges require separate application. Sconul Access scheme allows reciprocal borrowing for students visiting from other UK universities—register before your visit.