Library and Archives
Welcome to Oriel Library!
**COVID-19 Update**
Please see our Using the Library Safely page for more information on the temporary changes made to the Library for the 2020-21 academic year. Our existing policies on borrowing and returning items, hold requests, and book suggestions remain in place. However, access to the Library will not be 24/7 and we ask that no books or personal items are left in the Library. A few additional regulations are in place to help maintain a safe and welcoming environment. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with the Library if you would like to discuss further support or would like more information.
Oriel has two main libraries for you to use, accessible from Second and Third Quad. The Pantin Library (also known as the Junior Library) holds the main collection of books and the Senior Library holds our incredible special collections.
The Pantin Library is open 24/7 for Oriel students, staff and Fellows. It is self-service, although Library staff are always happy to help during office hours.
The Senior Library (which opened in 1795) is available as a study space from 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday during 1st-8th week. The rare books and Orielensia (books by and about former students) are available for consultation via prior agreement with the Librarian.
The College Archives are also located within the Library and are home to documents from 1150 to the present day. Please contact the Archivist if you would like to view them. We hope you agree that Oriel Library is a unique, welcoming environment for study and please do not hesitate to contact Library staff if you have any queries, feedback or requests.
Happy Pride Month 2021! We’ve created an online guide to searching for LGBTQIA+ resources and books in Oxford libraries – ranging from the best ways of searching on SOLO for relevant resources, to finding curated lists of physical books in Oriel’s Library, as well as linking to some free online resources outside of Oxford. At Oriel Library, we want to take this opportunity to reinforce that the Library is a safe space for everyone – including our students in the LGBTQ+ community. You can view our online display here.