Discover our campus: Libraries
Discover our campus: Libraries
Hello there, it’s Chetna, Pragya and Iris and we’re going to introduce you to all the libraries of the university.
Libraries are one of the main parts of a student life and without it, preparations for exams or meeting assignment deadlines would be impossible. Here in the University of Leeds, we have four amazing libraries on campus which specialize in various subjects and have their own distinct charm.
Brotherton Library
The Brotherton Library is the oldest library of the university. It is the largest research library in the north and the 4th largest in the whole of UK. The library is situated inside the Parkinson Building, the icon on our university’s logo. The library was established in 1936 and is a Grade II listed Beaux-Arts building. It is named after Edward Brotherton, 1st Baron Brotherton, who donated £100,000 to the university to fund the construction of the library. The architecture and interior are preserved since its inauguration, so it gives a traditional aura to the library. The books present here specialize in everything related to languages and the arts. The library also has a separate section called “The Special Collections Research Centre”, which houses thousands of rare books, manuscripts, arts, and archives. You’ll need permit to access these special collections. Along with it, IT clusters and individual study spaces are available for the students. Parkinson Court Café is outside the library so students can grab a quick bite and coffee.
Edward Boyle Library
At the heart of the University of Leeds campus, lies my personal favourite study spot, Edward Boyle Library (or as the students call it, Eddy B). This is one of the oldest and is the biggest library on campus; it dates back to 1975 and provides students with 6 floors of study space. What’s special about Eddy B is that it has a dedicated floor for postgraduate and postgraduate research students and is the only library on campus that offers this space. It has a mix of silent study, group study, IT clusters, and accessible study spaces and thus is quite popular amongst students, especially during exam season when it’s open 24 hrs for those late-night cram sessions! Edward Boyle library also hosts extensive science, social science, and engineering research collections, with a mix of new and old resources alike. Edward Boyle Library is also home to ‘The Edit room’ which is its onsite café on the ground floor. Offering a wide selection of salads, sandwiches, drinks, and of course coffee, it’s the perfect place to unwind between long study sessions and catch up with friends. Pro-tip, if you go there on Saturday just before closing time, you may be able to grab some of their famous sandwiches at half price or even free of charge! All in all, Edward Boyle library is a fantastic space to not only read but also study, research and even meet up with friends; catering to students of all disciplines.
Laidlaw Library
The Laidlaw Library is the newest library addition, opened in May 2015. Using low energy lighting and solar panels in the roof, the library is rated “Excellent” by the BREEAM sustainability design standard, and it has the state-of-the-art facilities. It contains the undergraduate core texts and high-demand section which maximizes access to essential reading on short notice. This library is popular among students because it has a wide variety of seating and workspace from individual desks to bookable group pods and rooms. If you want to, you can enjoy a view of Leeds skyline or the rooftop garden beehives as well while doing your work. There is also a Café Nero on the ground floor for those who need a quick bite or some coffee and those who fancy background noise while studying. The Laidlaw Library is also home to Skills@Library that supports taught students to develop academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, 1-2-1 consultations and drop-in sessions. I personally attended several workshops by Skills@Library such as referencing, time management, dissertation, etc., and they have definitely helped me excel academically.
Health Science Library
Finally, the Health Science Library, as the name suggests, hold books and core texts of medical and health related subjects. It is tucked into level 7 of the Worsley Building, home to the university’s Faculty of Medicine and Health. The library has individual study spaces, group study rooms and a printer zone. Since the building is located in the quieter area of the campus, it is the perfect place for those who like to study in silent environment without any distractions. Although the library spans over one floor only, it has quite a compact and modern atmosphere. Right next to the library is Café 7 where you can buy delicious coffee, sandwiches, bakeries, and snacks.
Now that you know of all the libraries of the university, don’t forget to carry your student ID whenever you go to the library. If you have any confusion or need support regarding the library materials, the staff there will always help you. Not only that, but the libraries are also open to you even after you graduate! So, whether you’re in your first year or an alumnus, the university’s libraries will welcome you anytime.