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Using the Library

Information and resources to help you use the Tate Library, the College's main library for students. 

Library shelves with gallery in the background

The Tate Library is the College's main undergraduate and graduate library, providing study space and access to essential course materials. 

During term time, the Library is open to College members 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with reduced opening hours during vacation periods. It offers a range of facilities, including individual study desks, height-adjustable workstations, WiFi, and a self-service issue machine. 

Library staff are available to help with finding material, borrowing enquiries, and general research support. The Team can be found either in the Tate Library or in the Library Office on the ground floor during office hours.

The Library is open only to College members. Visitors wanting to use material in our collection should contact us to discuss access before visiting.

Use SOLO, the University of Oxford's library catalogue, to search for material in the Tate. Guidance on using SOLO can be found on the Bodleian’s website. 

Books are normally issued until the end of term or vacation. Loans can be renewed online through SOLO or by contacting the Library team. Returned books may be left in the returns box outside the Library or on the trolley in the Tate.

We regularly buy books suggested by students and staff. To suggest a book for the Library, or to ask us to buy an item from your Personal Book Fund, use this form or email the Library Team. 

To help keep the Tate a welcoming and comfortable space for everyone, we ask readers to: 

  • Keep noise to a minimum. The Carpenter Room is available if you would like to work in groups or use a less formal study space
  • Clear up after yourself, particularly food and drink. Alcohol, hot food, and strongly scented food are not permitted
  • Remove your belongings from desks when you leave, especially the height-adjustable workstations, so that others can use them 
  • Never leave guests unattended in the Library, and please check with the Library team before bringing guests in. No visitors or guests are permitted during Trinity Term 
  • Be mindful of others' privacy when taking photographs.