Academics at other universities applying for a Bodleian Reader card

These instructions are for academics at UK universities. The University of Oxford is not currently a member of the SCONUL Access Scheme. However, for the duration of their contracts (maximum 4 years at a time), we offer free, reference-only access throughout the year to academic staff members at UK public universities and institutions that are members of SCONUL.

Make a Bodleian Reader card application

1. Download and complete the application form, including the statement of research need.
2. If you wish, you may pre-order material before applying for a Bodleian Reader card.
3. You must come to the Admissions Office to make your application. Please bring your completed application form and ID documents with you. If you would like our office to print out your completed application form and hold it under your name, please email it to admissions@bodleian.ox.ac.uk at least 2 working days (Monday – Friday) before your visit.
4. Find out more about our opening hours, and read our guidance on arriving at the office.

Bring the following proofs with you when you come to Admissions (please do not email us photos or scans)

One proof of identity in their original format:

• passport*
• photo driving licence*
• national identity card*
• bank card
• credit card
• photo bus pass
• Police/Customs/Home Office/Warrant Card

One proof of address in hard or electronic copy in English, dated within six months of the current application being made:

• utility bill (electricity, gas, internet, telephone, water)
• bank statement
• credit card statement
• building society statement
• payslip (where both the employer’s and the employee’s addresses are stated)
• Council Tax bill 
• TV licence

Proof of academic affiliation and end date:

• staff card displaying a valid end date
• signed letter on official letterhead from your Faculty/Department showing the end date of your affiliation.

*These documents can be used both proof of identity and proof of permanent home address, where the address has been officially printed.

Cost

• Academics from public institutions on a permanent contract are eligible for a free Bodleian Reader card.
• Academics from private institutions will need to pay our standard admission charge.

Library access granted

All Bodleian Reader card holders get reference-only access to printed material in the Bodleian Libraries and no borrowing privileges or remote access to subscription electronic resources.

You have access to most of the Bodleian Libraries throughout the year and vacation-only access to the remaining libraries.

If the material you wish to consult is only available in a vacation-only library, you may contact the relevant library to arrange possible term-time access in order to consult the specific item.

Term and vacation dates