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Library Appeal

The importance of the Library

Librarians have access to a small fund that enables them to respond to students' needs and purchase books in high demand. A gift will enable the University's librarians to purchase that book that everyone is after, making all the difference to a student who can only rely on Library resources. You can give the gift of knowledge.

Your gift to help buy library books now will mean students won't have to worry about how they'll get hold of that much-needed source of learning. You can also add a message of support to your donation and that will be placed in a book in the Library. You can encourage students in their studies.

From its beginnings on the London Road campus to its current home, purpose built in the 1960s, the Library has always been at the heart of student study. Through the decades, the Library has changed and adapted to new ways of learning. So although the Library is now open 24 hours and you're more likely to see a laptop than a pad of paper on the desk, it provides the same, fundamental service; a place of quiet study and the tools to achieve a fantastic degree.

Far from becoming a thing of the past, the Library is busier than ever. This means books are always in high demand, especially before exams or when assignments are due.

Isabelle

Isabelle works late in the Library most days so, with an essay deadline looming, today is no different. The quiet is comforting when the pressure is on.

Looking around, Isabelle can see many of her course mates in the Library; all with the same essay to write and all requiring the same textbook. Sometimes there just aren't enough copies of a book to go around.

Isabelle can't afford to buy her own textbooks, even with a part-time job, and her family isn't in a position to help her. As the evening progresses, she keeps a watchful eye on who has the book, hoping she can use it in time.

This story isn't unique. Many students like Isabelle rely on the Library and its vital resources to help them complete their degree. You'll remember from your days as a student how important the Library was to your success. And how important books were when you were facing an essay deadline or heavily revising for that important exam. You can imagine how difficult it is if you don't have access to the one book you really need.

Isabelle is so grateful that the Library is helping her to achieve her dream of a great education. She found one of the many previous bookplates in the Library's books and was touched by the message of support. She told us, "Being part of a community of kind, inspiring alumni is something I'm really proud of. I hope I can go on to help students like me in the future."

Your gift will ensure students like Isabelle have access to vital resources. You will also inspire new generations with your message of support.

How you can help

Your gift will give librarians the power to help students with:

  • £35 - The average cost of a textbook
  • £70 - The average cost of a core textbook
  • £120 - The average cost of an e-book
  • £500 - A year's subscription to an online journal

To inspire the next generation, please give now.

Donate today

Donate today

You can make a real difference to students and research projects at Reading by giving today.

Volunteer today

Volunteer today

Volunteering is a great way to stay connected and have a real impact on the lives of current and prospective students.

CONNECTED

CONNECTED

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Alumni & Supporter Engagement Office
London Road Campus
4 Redlands Road
READING
RG1 5EX
United Kingdom
alumni@reading.ac.uk +44 (0) 118378 8006

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