Visiting Heritage Collections

How to find the Reading Room

The Ronald Duncan (Special Collections) Reading Room is located in the Old Library (no.7 on the map) on the University of Exeter's Streatham Campus. Click on the map to see a larger version.

When you reach a paved semi-circular turning point on Prince of Wales Road, please walk up (uphill) the straight paved road leading off it towards a paved courtyard. At the top you will find the main entrance to the Old Library on your right. It stands next to the Mary Harris Memorial Chapel. If in doubt, follow the signs for the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum.

Please see our webpages for further information on visiting the University. 

Information for visitor parking on site can be found here.

Before your visit

Before your visit, please read our handling guidelines carefully. They provide information on how to handle volumes, papers, large materials, photographic materials, and audiovisual materials in our collections. You can also ask for advice during your visit if you are unsure about how to handle something. We're always happy to help!

It is also worth checking whether there are any restrictions on the resources that you want to consult and prepare for this in advance. Some archives might be restricted if they contain personal data relating to living individuals, and others might require permission from a copyright holder for any copies to be made. You can find more information on our Data Protection and Copying archive materials pages.

When you arrive

Once you arrive at the Old Library, please wash your hands with soap and water. This can prevent the transfer of any natural oils, moisture and dirt on to the materials. You can find bathrooms on your left after you enter through the Old Library's main entrance.

Head through the open barriers and turn right and proceed down the corridor. The Reading Room is the first door on your right. Ring the bell beside the door (pictured here) and a member of staff will let you in.

Inside the Reading Room

Once seated at your desk in the Reading Room please sign in using our digital diary. You will need to sign in on arrival each day you visit the Reading Room. Signing into the Reading Room diary signifies that you agree to comply with the Reading Room Regulations and Handling Guidelines.

• Please use a pencil and paper or digital device for taking notes, pens are not allowed in the Reading Room.
• No food or drink is allowed inside the Reading Room. Lockers are available in the Reading Room office next door.
• All readers must show a form of identification which includes their photograph and address. Members of the University of Exeter should bring their University Library card. New readers who are not members of the University of Exeter must complete a registration form. 
• The Reading Room is kept at a cool temperature so you may wish to bring a jumper, even in warm weather.

Dogs

Registered Assistance dogs are very welcome in our Reading Room and Galleries.

Please be advised that all other dogs are not permitted inside University of Exeter library buildings.