Visiting the library

Who can use the library?

The library is open to all students and staff of the University of Cambridge, the wider polar research community and anybody wishing to know more about the polar regions.

You must book a desk before your visit. Slots are released two weeks in advance, and there is a waiting list enabled once all slots are booked. To be added to the waiting list, click the 'Begin registration' button. If you cannot keep your booking, please use the link in your booking confirmation email to cancel your place and enable somebody else to use it.

For academic visitors planning a longer stay, please write in the first instance to the Director of SPRI to apply for Visiting Scholar status.

Opening hours

The library is currently open for visitors Monday to Friday from 10:00 – 13:00, and 14:00 - 16:30. You must book a desk before your visit.

We are closed in the period between Christmas and New Year and on bank holidays.

Access

Step-free access into the Institute is available using the entrance at the side of the building next to the car park. There is lift access to library space on the first and second floors of the building. We will always consider ways that we can best serve any library user so please contact us if you have any special requirements or about how we can make your visit more enjoyable.

Library regulations

We ask all library users to abide by the library regulations to ensure that the Polar Library remains a pleasant and safe study environment and that the collections are appropriately conserved.