In term time we are open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Booking an appointment is preferred but not essential.
To make an appointment please email archives@dmu.ac.uk.
Accessing DMU Special Collections is free and we are open to all – staff and students of DMU and other universities, alumni, private researchers and members of the public. The reading room is wheelchair accessible and fitted with a hearing loop.
You will need an appointment to visit us, and you are welcome to contact us in advance and discuss your research needs. It is also useful to look at our catalogues and let us know if there is something specific you would like to consult.
When you arrive for your first visit, you will be asked to complete our online reader registration form. By signing the reader registration form you agree to respect our code of conduct while visiting the archive. If you visit again, you will be asked to sign in using our visitor book.
You will be asked to put coats and bags in a locker and take only what you need to the research desks. Staff will give you a brief introduction to using Special Collections and the specific materials you are interested in, including safe handling of archive documents. You may be asked to complete an order slip for the specific items you wish to view.
You are welcome to take photographs within copyright restrictions and for private research purposes only. If you want to have scans made or ask for any digitisation please discuss this with staff.
DMU subscribes to Eduroam providing wifi access to users from other higher education institutions. If you do not qualify for Eduroam please contact us in advance and we can set up guest wifi access. Power points are available for laptops.
Please note food and drink are not allowed in the reading room. If you need refreshments during your research time, there is a cafe in the Library building and in several other locations across campus.
DMU Special Collections strives to be a welcoming and inclusive environment where everybody can enjoy access to our rich heritage.
If you have specific requirements please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss with staff what reasonable adjustments we can make to ensure your visit is comfortable and fruitful, or mention it to staff during your visit. We will keep anything disclosed to us private and confidential.
We are located in Kimberlin Library, in DMU's central Leicester campus.
A campus map and transport guide can be found here.
Please report to Library Reception on arrival.
