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Library membership

Photograph of a library with rows of free standing books shelves, filled with books. On the end of each row is a large red graphic plant like design and book category information signs. Between the first two rows a young woman is sitting at a table writing in a notebook, spotlit by a small desk lamp. In the distance another person can be seen standing at a bookshelf, back to camera.
Wellcome Library, Photo: Thomas SG Farnetti. Source: Wellcome Collection. Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0).

Do I need library membership?

Anyone over the age of 18 can visit the library and use materials on the shelves by collecting a free day card from staff at the library entrance on level 2. Please note you may be asked to show proof of age. 

We also offer free membership. It allows you to: ​

  • order items from the library’s closed stores to view in our Rare Materials Room ​
  • log in to the library’s computer network to access our online subscription databases ​
  • use the library scanners and printer to support your research of our collections.

For members requiring assistive software and equipment, you are also able to book an accessible study room. ​

If you are under 18 years of age and studying for an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), you can apply for a short-term membership. You will need to follow the pre-registration process below and on your first visit, bring a signed letter from your school/college on headed paper which details your EPQ project title.​

How to get a membership

To apply for a membership, you need to: ​

  • pre-register online
  • verify your email to confirm your registration​
  • bring two forms of personal ID to the library admissions desk to complete your membership​.

If you have any access questions related to getting membership, you can speak to us by phone, email or in person when you visit the library.​

Personal ID and proof of address

In order to become a member of the library you will need to show a form of personal identification (ID) and proof of address on your first visit. We accept any combination of the following:

Personal identification (ID)

  • UK or international driving licence with your photograph and/or signature 
  • International identity card with your photograph and your residential address 
  • Full passport 
  • UK credit card or debit card with your signature 
  • Official photo identity card from a recognised place of work or study 

Proof of address

  • UK or international driving licence with your photograph and/or signature and your residential address 
  • International identity card with your photograph and your residential address 
  • Council tax statement or payment book (paper or digital) 
  • Recent utility bill – gas, electricity, water or telephone (paper or digital) 
  • Recent bank or credit-card statement (paper or digital) 

Get in touch

Library enquiries
library@wellcomecollection.org