Who can use the CTF libraries?

The Cambridge Theological Federation libraries are open to all members of the CTF, including registered alumni, external readers, and the members of the University of Cambridge with valid University cards. To use the CTF libraries you will need an active library card that is registered with us - if you are unsure if you have an active card, please email library@theofed.cam.ac.uk.


How and when can I visit the libraries?

Most of the CTF libraries are unstaffed much of the time. Each of the Houses has a slightly different set up, and many offer 24 hour access to their own members.

If you are visiting the library of a House of which you are not a member in most cases you will need to show your library card to staff at the House reception, who will lend you a library key. 

Most CTF libraries are open during usual working hours (9am-5pm weekdays), but it is always worth checking the House website for their reception hours when you are planning your visit. See the full guide to CTF libraries.


What and how can I borrow?

Registered users may borrow 20 books across all the CTF libraries using their library card. 

CTF books are renewed automatically.

We do not charge fines, but we ask for your co-operation in returning books when they not needed anymore.

All books may be borrowed except those marked 'Reference'; journals are not borrowable.

Books should be borrowed and returned using the Circulation computers: read the guide here.


How can I find books in the CTF libraries?

You can search the CTF print collections via iDiscover, a platform that we share with all the other University of Cambridge libraries.

Read the guide to searching the CTF libraries in iDiscover here.

For more help using iDiscover, explore the University's help page.


Help - I can't borrow or return books from the self-circulation computer in the library!

This may be due to a technical problem with the computer, or there may be an issue with your card. Please email library@theofed.cam.ac.uk with the following information, and we can issue your books to your account remotely:

  • Your name:
  • Your library card barcode number: e.g. VA12B
  • Book author and title:
  • Book barcode number: e.g. 8EDU6
Please note: the book barcode number is the 5-digit code printed underneath the barcode stuck inside the front of every book. It is NOT the classification number on the book’s spine.


What if the book I want isn’t on the shelf, but iDiscover says it’s there?

  • Try looking on all the shelves nearby to see if it was put back in the wrong place
  • Try looking on the tables in the library, to check if another library patron is using the book
  • Finally, if you can't find the book anywhere, email library@theofed.cam.ac.uk so that we can mark the book as missing on iDiscover.


Thank you for following these simple regulations to keep our libraries working for all users:

Please don't annotate or otherwise deface the books.

When working in the library please keep your mobile phones in silent mode.

If you want to leave library books which you are currently using in your study space, please fill in a ‘Books in Use’ slip and leave it (visible) with your books.

Books should be returned to the shelves after use, as the CTF Libraries are not usually staffed.

Any problems or questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch with the library team at library@theofed.cam.ac.uk.

Last modified: Thursday, 21 September 2023, 2:37 PM