University of Leeds

We are a major cultural hub, enriching the University and the wider community through our unique collections, rich resources, expertise and innovative services. There are four libraries on campus, each with their own character and housing print collections for different subject areas and there is another library based at St James’ University Hospital. The campus libraries offer a range of study environments, including flexible group study areas and silent individual study spaces.

An appointment is required to consult items held in our special collections. Otherwise our libraries are open 7 days a week except bank holidays. Members may remove books from the library and search our collections using Library Search. Unfortunately many of our online resources are restricted to staff and students of the university. Click on the link to find out if you are eligible to join the library. Non-textbook gifts and donations are accepted but must be arranged in advance.

OUR LIBRARIES

The Brotherton Library (located inside the Parkinson Building with the clock tower) contains the research collections for languages and the arts. It’s the oldest and grandest of the campus libraries and is held in great affection by staff, students and visitors. The Brotherton Research Centre, which holds some of the UK’s outstanding rare books and manuscripts, is based within the library.

The Edward Boyle Library contains the research collections for science, engineering and social sciences. It’s the largest library on campus and is grade II listed as an exemplar of brutalist architecture.

The Laidlaw Library is the library dedicated to undergraduates, with recommended books on reading lists and a variety of individual and group study areas. There’s also great views over the city and hives of bees on the green roof.

The Health Sciences Library is on level 7 of the Worsley Building, close to the School of Medicine and Leeds General Infirmary. It contains the Library’s main medical and health-related collections. If you work for the NHS, you could become an NHS member.

We also run the library at St James’s University Hospital.

OUR GALLERIES are free and open to the public, with no appointment required. Check our galleries opening times. Or, follow the public art trail outdoors.

The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery displays stunning examples of European and British painting, drawings and prints from the 17th century to the present day, as well as small collections of sculpture, ceramics, miniatures, and photographs.
The Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery is rooted in Yorkshire and open to the world, displaying treasures from our cultural collections. Come to see original material written by the Brontës, stunning illuminated medieval manuscripts and rare books from across the globe. Or visit online with our online exhibitions, such as A Library and a Legacy and Man behind the Moderns.

We also offer a lively programme of public events, including talks, craft workshops, hands-on activities and exhibitions. There’s lots to enjoy online as well, from collection jigsaws, virtual sketch club and two minute treasure videos.