Our services: Borrow from us: Can't get to the Library?

Can't get to the Library?

If you’re in Durham but unable to visit the Library (e.g. you are unwell or self-isolating, have caring commitments, short-term injury) you are able to access items/resources from the Library through the following services: 

• Electronic resources – we have so many resources available online for you to access anytime, anywhere - our Electronic Resources guide will help you get started.

• Off-campus access – to access our electronic resources easily, you can install the off-campus bookmarklet, viaDurham. Once it is installed in your browser, you can just click on the button and the web page will be reloaded via our on-campus proxy server (providing the Library has a subscription to the resource).  

• Scan and Deliver* – scanned copies of book chapters or journal articles can be sent straight to your inbox. 

• Proxy collection* – nominate someone to collect items from Bill Bryson Library on your behalf. 

*Maximum of five requests per service. Requests will be processed within 7 days - please consider this and the length of time you are unable to visit us when placing your request. 

Making a request

To request an item through Scan and Deliver, log in to Discover, search for the item and click the relevant button on the item record. Please note, you will only see buttons for the request options that are currently available for that particular item (you will need to be signed in to view the available options). 

If you need to arrange a proxy collection, please email us at main.library@durham.ac.uk 
 

Other things you need to know... 

• You’ll be pleased to hear that we don’t need you to return any books to us during the time you are unable to visit us – items will automatically renew every three weeks for up to 12 months, provided it is not reserved. However, if an item is due to be returned to us, you can make use of our free postal returns service during this time.

• If you receive a reservation notice during your isolation period, you can email us at main.library@durham.ac.uk  

• Currently, charges are only applied to overdue reserved items.

Health and Wellbeing 

We understand that periods of illness or self-isolation can be difficult for many reasons – visit the University website for details of resources available to support your health and wellbeing.

You can also view our Wellbeing Guide - from eBooks to podcasts, calming resources to entertaining viewing - we hope you'll find just what you need to help support your wellbeing.