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Library Expands 24/7 Access and Launches Pilot of Revised Staffed Service Arrangements

Students will benefit from round-the-clock access to all Campus Library spaces and collections from 21 September 2026.

The library is delighted to announce a significant enhancement to Campus Library services in response to student feedback received over the past year.

From 21 September 2026, students will have 24/7 access to all areas of the Belfast, Coleraine and Derry~Londonderry Campus Libraries. This means students will be able to access study spaces, printed collections, and self-service borrowing and return facilities at any time of the day or night, seven days a week.

Students have consistently told us that flexible access to study space and printed collections is important, particularly during assessment and assignment periods. The new arrangements will allow students to browse, consult and borrow library materials whenever they choose to study.

Greater Flexibility for Students

  • 24/7 access to all Campus Library spaces.
  • Continuous access to printed collections.
  • Self-service borrowing and return facilities at any time.
  • Greater flexibility in how and when library facilities are used.
  • Improved access to library collections and space during evenings, nights and weekends.

Pilot of Revised Staffed Service Arrangements

Alongside the introduction of 24/7 access, the library will pilot revised staffed service arrangements during Semester 1 at:

  • Coleraine Campus Library on Mondays
  • Belfast Campus Library on Wednesdays

On these days, staffed service hours will conclude at 5pm. The library will remain fully open and accessible, allowing students to continue using study spaces, collections, and self-service facilities throughout the evening.

This pilot will help the library better understand patterns of library use outside traditional staffed hours and ensure staffing resources are aligned to periods when demand for support is highest. Library staff will continue to be available during the busiest periods, when students most frequently require assistance.

Listening to Student Feedback

These developments reflect the library’s commitment to providing services that support evolving student needs and study habits.

Feedback on both the 24/7 access arrangements and the pilot of revised staffed service arrangements will be gathered throughout Semester 1. Alongside usage and engagement data, this feedback will help inform future service developments and ensure the library continues to deliver the best possible student experience.

Statement

These changes represent a major enhancement to the student experience and reflect what students have told us they want from their Library Service. By providing 24/7 access to all areas of our Campus Libraries, we are giving students greater flexibility to access study spaces, collections and borrowing facilities whenever they need them. The pilot of revised staffed service arrangements will help us better understand how our spaces are used outside traditional service hours and ensure that staff expertise is available when it can have the greatest impact. We look forward to gathering feedback throughout Semester 1 and continuing to develop our services in response to student needs.

For further information about the new arrangements, students should speak to staff at a Library Information Point.