SCONUL Access Scheme

SCONUL has four membership bands (A, B, C and R). DCU Library supports Band A only, which means:

• Eligible to apply: DCU staff and DCU research postgraduate students
• Eligible to visit DCU Library: Staff and research postgraduate students from other SCONUL institutions

Before applying, make sure your DCU Library account is up to date and that any overdue items are returned or renewed.

1. Go to the SCONUL Access website.
2. Choose your user type and select DCU as your home institution.
3. Click Find to see which libraries you can visit.
4. Select the library you want to visit and choose Apply for Access.
5. Complete the form using your DCU ID number and DCU email address.
6. Your application will be sent to DCU Library for approval (usually within 48 hours).
7. Once approved, you’ll receive an email confirming your SCONUL status.
   • This email can be printed and used to access any participating library.
   • You do not need to reapply for each new library you visit.

Membership lasts up to three years, or until your DCU registration or staff contract ends.

Print Material
The host library will decide how many items you can borrow and which types are available.

Eresources
Access to electronic resources varies by institution. Some libraries may restrict access to IT facilities or eresources.
If you need to use online resources, check the host library’s website or contact them before your visit.

• Check the library’s website for opening hours and access rules.
• Bring:
  • Your SCONUL approval email
  • Your valid DCU ID card
• You’ll be issued a library card for that institution.
• You can borrow and use the library until your SCONUL membership expires.
• You are responsible for returning items on time and paying any fines.

Read the SCONUL Access FAQs for more information.

Band A SCONUL members can register for a DCU Library card at:

• Cregan Library (St Patrick’s Campus)
• O’Reilly Library (Glasnevin Campus)

Bring:

• Your SCONUL Access verification email
• Your staff or student card from your home institution

Once registered, you can access all three DCU Library sites:

• Cregan Library – St Patrick’s Campus
• O’Reilly Library – Glasnevin Campus
• Woodlock Hall Library – All Hallows Campus

Check the DCU Library website for current opening hours.

Borrowing at DCU

• You may borrow up to eight books from the Main Collections.
• Items in the Library Store or Special Collections are available on request via Library Search.
• Journals and reference books cannot be borrowed.
• Standard loan period: three weeks.

Facilities for SCONUL Members at DCU

• Guest Wi‑Fi available
• Power points throughout library spaces
• Library Search available for exploring print collections
• Not available:
  • Library PCs
  • Printing, photocopying or scanning
  • Access to DCU electronic resources (ebooks, databases, ejournals) due to cybersecurity restrictions