Lancaster

Located next to The Keep, the library has fantastic views across the city.  It has a diverse collection of over 160,000 items covering most subject areas and provides access to open study spaces, group study rooms, printers, vending machines and much more.

To take a look around our library, please visit our Visual Journey Lancaster Campus

We want our library spaces to feel inclusive, welcoming and considerate of all members of our university community. To this end, we ask our users to check out this page of ways you can help us achieve this: Library Etiquette

Opening hours 

26 October - 13 December 2026

Explore Lancaster Campus

Map of Lancaster Campus

Be right at the heart of it at the University of Cumbria in Lancaster. Our campus is a hub of fresh thinking, education and high achievement.

Now home to some of our most popular courses in Education, Health, Sport and Business, it's a place to be inspired, be part of a strong community, and be supported as you develop the skills you need to take you to the very top.

Library Location

University of Cumbria
Harold Bridges Library
Bowerham Road
Lancaster
LA1 3JD

Explore our collections

Study Spaces

Except during any university closures (exceptional circumstances and Christmas) the library and IT Lab in the adjoining Keep are open 24/7. Outside of staffed library hours you will need your Cumbria Card to swipe into the building via the library ramp. Individual and group study rooms can also be booked.

Study rooms can be booked online here: Book a study space

Process for Using the Library Outside of Staffed Hours

Before and During Your Visit

1. If possible, let someone know where you are.

2. Complete the Lone Working/Studying form, via this QR Code:

3. Save the Lancaster Northern Security phone number: 07809 190566

4. When you first enter the library, report to the Northern Security Representative and let them know when you leave.

5. Always wear your University Cumbria Card on a lanyard while in the building, so security can identify you.

6. Whenever possible, study or work in an open, visible area.

IN AN EMERGENCY

Dial 999 immediately and quote the address below:

The Harold Bridges Library

University of Cumbria

Bowerham Road, Lancaster

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Support

Staff in the library are ready to welcome you and to answer your queries.

If you need any information or have any questions please visit the Student Enquiry Point.

If you are studying in the evening or at the weekend and have a query please use the Ask a Librarian service.

Borrowing and Returning Books

Find out how to borrow, renew and return books whilst you are a member of our libraries. If you have library books out they will auto renew until the end of your course unless they are requested by someone else. We will send you an email letting you know which book needs to be returned so please check your student email regularly.