School visits and services

The University Library is happy to make its resources available to senior school pupils and students at Forth Valley College. Please see information below on how to arrange a visit.

Who can join the Library, and how to join?

5th and 6th year pupils are welcome to join the Library either as part of a school visit or independently. All pupils are required to submit an online application in advance of their visit. On the day of the visit a photo will be taken and a Library card issued. The card will be valid until the end of the Advanced Higher school year (typically the end of June).

Submit online application (school students)

If teaching staff wish to join the Library there are two options: external membership (£30 per year) or Stirling alumni membership (£15 per year). Applications can be made online in advance. A photo will be taken and a card issued on the day of the visit.

Borrowing, renewing and returning books

School pupils (and teachers) are entitled to borrow 10 books at any one time. A small proportion of the book stock which is in heavy demand by the students is not available to external borrowers; these books are housed in our Short Loan collection. Popular collection books, which are shelved in the main collection, are available for external borrowers only during the University vacations.

Books can be issued using the self-issue machines or at the Lending Desk. Any books borrowed can be renewed by phoning 01786 466620 between 08.30 and 20.00 (Mon - Fri). Books can either be returned in person, or in the post.

All borrowers should be aware of the fining policy.

All long loan books are subject to recall, borrowers are notified by email if an item they have on loan has been requested. Recalled items must be returned within 7 days of a recall email.

Due to licensing agreements, access to our electronic collections (books and journal articles) is restricted.

Library tours, catalogue demonstrations and group study space

Subject to staff availability, a tour of the building, suitable group study space and a demonstration of the catalogue can be provided. To ensure staff availability, a minimum of 14 days notice is required to arrange a tour. Tours are available between 9 and 4 Monday to Friday.

Timing of a school visit

School pupils are welcome to visit at any time, but if a tour, catalogue demonstration and group study facilities are required there may be restrictions on dates. Due to pressure on staff time and study space, we are unable to offer tours, demonstrations and guaranteed study space at the following times:

September: due to induction activities and preparations for the new academic year.

Exam periods and resits.

Stirling Campus Graduation days: see graduation dates.

Other Considerations

All groups of pupils must be accompanied by a teacher.

All visitors must abide by the library's food and drink policy and ensure that silent study areas are respected.

A free public Wi-Fi network is available should visitors wish to bring their own device onto campus. More information about connecting to our visitor Wi-Fi.

Photocopying cards are available for sale from the Lending Desk at the Information Centre.

Car parking on campus is controlled by a pay and display system all year round. At peak times it may be advisable to travel to the campus using public transport, or park at the student residences.

Book a school visit

Please provide the information requested below in an email to library@stir.ac.uk

Name and contact details for teacher / librarian organising the visit
Name of school
Number of pupils on visit
Subject areas of interest (Please provide as much information as possible)
Preferred date and time
Any specific requirements for the group e.g. disabled access
Please allow a minimum of 2 hours for a tour and study time.