With the increase in COVID-19 infections, and the national shift to lockdown Alert Level 3, the library executive has adjusted library services to safeguard the health of all staff and students while still providing proficient support to ensure continuality of research, and teaching and learning. UP students and staff are, therefore, encouraged to continue using our comprehensive online collections and virtual information support services.

Most libraries will still be open from Mondays to Fridays, 08:00 – 16:00, and Saturdays from 9:00 – 13:00. Our virtual service hours are Mondays to Fridays: 08:00 – 21:00. View all our libraries' hours here

Limited study spaces in each library will be available and must be booked online in advance. The number of study seats available in libraries depends on the size and capacity of the specific library, as well as the regulations regarding the number of people allowed in a public space. Library users will only be allowed into designated areas in the libraries and will not be allowed physical access to library collections. Study centres and computer areas (on all campuses) will remain closed.

The Research Commons (on all campuses) will open for a limited number of postgraduate students and must be booked online in advance. For safety reasons, please bring your own device, or arrange with Research Commons staff if you would need to use a computer in this facility.

Students who are allowed on campus will need to return library material in time to ensure that all users have equal access to frequently used titles. Library material may still be returned via the book drops at all library sites (note that these items will be quarantined before being re-shelved). Users may also return library material through registered mail or courier services.

The contactless collection service for library material will continue. This service allows library users to place requests for materials from the library system, followed by communication between library staff and the student to collect them from the library.

Library staff will continue to provide digitisation services. Requests for sections of books to be digitised (within copyright regulations) must be submitted online.

Health and safety measures and social distancing protocols remain applicable in all libraries.

Please see the complete A - Z guide with some of our current library offerings and services here.