Inside the General Reading Room at George IV Bridge.
Free WiFi is available in all George IV Bridge reading rooms and public areas.
Hard-copy collections
Most of our collections are not out on the shelves so you will need to pre-order material before you visit.
We have a range of reference books available to use within the reading room. These include:
- Dictionaries.
- Encyclopaedias.
- Bibliographies.
- Other selected texts.
Study spaces and equipment
The General Reading Room is a quiet study space with seating for 187 readers. We also provide:
- Computers with access to the Library's online catalogues, Library Search and online resources.
- Reserved spaces for using hard-copy newspapers or large format items.
- Height-adjustable tables.
You are welcome to use a laptop or tablet in the Reading Room and there are power points for charging. The following items are available to borrow:
- Footrests.
- Support cushions.
- Balance chairs.
- Magnifying glasses.
Check with staff if you want to bring in any other equipment.
The Open Shelves display
The Open Shelves display is a space in the General Reading Room that will be displaying a new collection of reference material. This space is dedicated to showcasing the range of our collections and being a source of interest and learning for our readers.
Within it you will find a range of books that focus on a different theme every month that spotlights people who have historically been left out of such collections. This month's collection brings together some of the best texts by British women writers of colour from the 1930s to the 2020s. (Re)discover a Black British feminist classic with 'Heart of the Race' or laugh out loud with 'Sophia Khan is not Obliged'. This collection will be available to view from September to October.
Discovery Room
The Discovery Room is on the same floor as the General Reading Room. It is a more informal study space where talking is welcome. In this room, you will also have access to:
- Computers with access to the Library's online catalogues, Library Search and online resources.
- Microfilm and microfiche collections.
- Assistive technology. A full list is available on our accessibility page.
- A group study/family space which can accommodate up to five people.
- A consultation table for group study is available in the Issue Hall. It can seat up to six people.
- Bean bags and a small collection of children's books for browsing.
Study space inside the Discovery Room.