Services and Facilities

Community and Alumni Members

Community members may visit the Library to browse the shelves or use study space.

How it works

We offer membership to support individuals - including RGU Alumni and those studying for professional qualifications or seeking to keep up to date with professional issues.

Community members can borrow 5 books at any time and also place holds on items via the Library Catalogue.

Is there anything I can't borrow?

Journals and other items on the shelves that are reference only cannot be borrowed - they can only be used within the library. These will be indicated by a label on the item.

Electronic Resources and Databases

Unfortunately, our license agreements do not allow us to offer Alumni or Community members access to all our main online collections. However there are a selection of databases available on a dedicated PC on campus through our Walk-In Service. Please note use of this needs booked in advance. We're sorry but we can't offer remote access to online collections.


Community Membership Types

Note: Applications can be processed in person or by email. Send your completed application form and supporting proof of ID to library@rgu.ac.uk or just pop in with them. We cannot promise to process it immediately, but will endeavour to do it whilst you wait if someone is available to do so. Your Library card will be made available from our Reception after which you may visit the Library and borrow items.

Community Membership (including Alumni)

  • As of 1st January 2024 all community memberships are free, for non-commercial use only.
  • This includes: RGU alumni, senior citizens, practice teachers, occasional lecturers, retired RGU staff, and individuals on courses who would not normally have access to library facilities, RGU evening/weekend class students, NHS Grampian staff members, Robert Gordon's College staff and 6th year students.

To join as a community member, please complete and return the membership form:

SCONUL Membership

Students studying at other Universities in the UK may apply for free membership under the SCONUL access scheme. Please check your home instution's website for details on how to apply for the scheme. You must have an approval email before visiting RGU Library. SCONUL memberships can be processed 0900-1700 Monday-Friday.

On arrival at RGU Library please show your SCONUL approval email and your home institution student ID. You'll need to complete the above Community Membership Form after which you'll be able to access the Library and the borrowing privileges for Bands A-C. Band R students will be permitted reference and study access only.

Please note that SCONUL membership does not provide access to electronic resources such as databases and e-books, or to PCs and printing. There are a selection of databases available through our Walk-In Service. It is necessary to book to use this service. Students from other institutions should be able to log-into Eduroam using their home credentials for wifi access on their own devices.

If you would like more information, please email us.