As a result of the national lockdown there have been changes to guidelines for higher education institutions and their libraries.
The University of Manchester Library is now physically operating on an essential use only basis, in line with the new guidance issued on 7 January 2021 by the Department for Education, primarily to support the following categories of students:
- those studying medicine, dentistry, nursing and other subjects allied to medicine/health, education (initial teacher training) and social work
- those on a very limited number of courses which require Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) assessments and /or other PSRB mandatory activity which is scheduled for January
- those requiring additional support, including those with mental health and wellbeing issues
- and, in exceptional circumstances, those who do not have access to appropriate study spaces or facilities in their accommodation
All students are therefore asked to think very carefully before booking a library study space in order to help us reduce the footfall on campus and protect the use of our spaces for those who need them most at this point in time.
We are of course very aware that the Semester 1 assessment period begins on 18 January 2021 and pressure on Library spaces is likely to increase further in this two week period. Again, we ask that you exercise good judgment when deciding whether or not it is essential that you complete your assessment/exam on campus.
If you do need to use a Library study space, we have bookable space available in the AGLC, Main Library and Stopford Library. Please be aware that when using any of these spaces you will be entering a COVID secure environment that will be regularly monitored to ensure strict compliance with COVID guidelines, including the mandatory use of face coverings and adherence to a two metre social distancing policy at all times.
As ever our extensive digital library continues to be at your disposal alongside our friendly 24 x 7 library chat and enquiry service. Click and Collect services are also available for those of you who still need access to our print stock. Our Assessment Support services are also available.
We will of course be reviewing our position regularly in line with relevant guidance and the local public health risks and hope that we can resume more normal service very soon.
In the meantime please remember that now, more than ever, it is absolutely essential that we look out for each other and play our part in trying to control the spread of the virus through our communities by minimising our footfall on campus. So remember, if it is possible for you to work from home, then please do work from home.
Professor Christopher Pressler
John Rylands University Librarian and Director of The University of Manchester Library