Library membership

Photograph of a library with rows of free standing books shelves, filled with books. On the end of each row is a large red graphic plant like design and book category information signs. Between the first two rows a young woman is sitting at a table writing in a notebook, spotlit by a small desk lamp. In the distance another person can be seen standing at a bookshelf, back to camera.

Do I need library membership?

Anyone over the age of 18 can visit the library and use the materials on the shelves. You only have to join the library if you need to order materials from the library stores or use our online subscription resources. It’s best to email us if you're planning to visit the library for the first time, so that we can advise you on the membership options available to you.

Membership is free and available to anyone over the age of 18 who needs to use our collections. It allows you to:

order items from the library’s closed stores to view in our Rare Materials Room 
log in to the library’s computer network to access our online subscription databases
use the library scanners and printers for research purposes 
book a study room.

If you are under 18 years of age and studying for an Extended Project Qualification alongside your A levels, you can apply for a short-term membership.

How to get a membership

To get library membership you need to:

apply online for a membership
verify your email to confirm your registration
bring two forms of personal ID to the library admissions desk to complete your membership

If you have any access questions related to getting membership, you can speak to us by phone, email or in person when you visit the library.

Personal ID and proof of address

In order to become a member of the library you will need to show a form of personal identification (ID) and proof of address on your first visit. We accept any combination of the following:

Personal identification (ID)

UK or international driving licence with your photograph and/or signature
International identity card with your photograph and your residential address
Full passport
UK credit card or debit card with your signature
Official photo identity card from a recognised place of work or study

Proof of address

UK or international driving licence with your photograph and/or signature and your residential address
International identity card with your photograph and your residential address
Council tax statement or payment book (paper or digital)
Recent utility bill – gas, electricity, water or telephone (paper or digital)
Recent bank or credit-card statement (paper or digital)

Get in touch

Library enquiries

library@wellcomecollection.org