The Library provides the following additional services for Brunel students registered on distance programmes:
Using other libraries
Universities
You may find it convenient to use the library of a university close to where you live. There is a specialist scheme for distance learners, called SCONUL Access which enables you to borrow from participating UK university libraries.
UK Public Libraries
Local public libraries offer access to a wide range of facilities and services, including: good printed reference material, internet access and access to some electronic resources. They also offer an interlibrary loans service so you can access printed material held elsewhere.
Libraries outside the UK
If you are based outside the UK you may be able to use the national, academic, public or professional bodies’ libraries in your host country. The British Council has a large network of libraries. Useful websites for locating information on such libraries are:
Accessing journals
Electronic journals
Many journals are available in full text electronically and can be accessed off campus. You can search for journal titles using the E-Journals A to Z or Library Search. You should have a Brunel network username and will need it to use this system. If you don’t yet have one, please contact the administrator in your academic department, who can arrange for you to be sent one.
Further information on accessing resources can be found on our Finding Information pages.
Paper journals
Some journal content is only available in paper format. If you are unable to visit to consult print journals in person we offer a Scan & Send service. See our remote services page for more details.
The Library, on receipt of your request will scan the journal article (within copyright law) and will send it to your university email address.
Materials not held by Brunel
If you require a copy of an item that is not held by Brunel Library, you could use another library (see above), however, due to license restrictions most libraries will only allow you to use their paper resources - not those they have electronically.
Alternatively, you may want to make use of our interlibrary loans service. A fee is charged for each successful application. Journal articles and photocopies from conference proceedings are sent via the postal system to users. Books and other material have to be collected from the Library. Your local public library may also be able to offer document delivery services.
Accessing electronic resources
Library databases
The Library has a number of electronic databases which contain records giving details of publications including books, journal articles, conference papers and proceedings. You can use these databases to search for useful references on specific subjects.
These electronic databases are available through the databases A-Z.
Who can I speak to for more help in accessing resources?
Further help in finding resources to support your studies is available from our Finding information pages, from the Library Help Desk or via library@brunel.ac.uk. Each subject area also has a dedicated Academic Liaison Librarian who can guide you through the resources available.