Senate House Library, University of London
The Senate House Library at the University of London offers a variety of services accessible via phone, including general enquiries about library services, membership assistance, and book returns. Callers can also arrange access to special collections and receive research support. The library operates during standard hours, with extended hours on Wednesdays for special collections. Common reasons for calling include membership registration, book returns, and accessing rare collections. Wait times may vary, especially during peak periods, but contacting during off-peak hours or using live chat can provide quicker responses. Saturdays have limited hours, so planning ahead is advisable.
Updated 15 Dec 2025
Expected outcomes
- Register for library membership
- Renew library membership
- Return books by post
- Access special collections
- Receive research support
- Check library services
- Resolve account issues
Call preparation
Assemble everything before you dial. These requirements are verified by our call analysts and updated as organizations change their scripts.
- Photo ID
- Proof of address
- Library account details
- Advance booking
- Proof of postage
- Membership card
Known issues
Users occasionally experience long wait times when contacting the library, especially during peak periods. To mitigate this, it's recommended to call during off-peak hours or use the library's live chat feature for faster assistance. Additionally, the library's Saturday hours are limited, which may not accommodate all users' schedules. Planning visits or calls during weekdays can ensure access to full services. For book returns by post, ensure to retain proof of postage to confirm the return process. These strategies can help alleviate common frustrations and improve the overall experience.
