Requesting a Library Card

A library card for external borrowers entitles you to the following:

• Requesting, borrowing and viewing books, journals and other printed materials.
• Consulting heritage materials in the Allard Pierson Reading Room.
• Consulting the digital collection via a public PC in the University Library Singel.
• Use study and consultation spaces.
• Request materials from other libraries (for a fee). Read more about Borrowing from other libraries.

With a library card it is not possible to:

• access the paid digital collection from home due to licensing conditions. Different conditions apply for alumni and pensioners. Read more on our page about Online Access to the Collection.
• use study and consultation spaces during exam periods. See also our Access Policy.

Procedure Requesting a Library Card

After applying, we will send a message when the library card is ready for you. As a rule, this is after two working days. When collecting your card, please bring a valid ID and documentary evidence showing your current home address. If you are entitled to a free card we will ask you to prove this (proof of registration or salary specification).

Types of Library Cards

1. A library card for 1 year (€ 45*). To see if you are eligible for a free library card, go to the Free Library Card section.
2. An consultation card for two weeks (€ 15*). With this card materials can only be requested and viewed, not borrowed.
3. An AdamNet card. With this card you can borrow from several libraries in Amsterdam. This pass can only be taken out at the Amsterdam Public Library. For more information go to the Adamnet website.

Free Library Card

• Students and employees of Dutch universities affiliated with the UvN.
• Students and employees of the Amsterdam Hoogeschool van de Kunsten and the Gerrit Rietveld Academie. 
• Employees of the Koninklijke Bibliotheek and the KNAW. 
• Holders of an AdamNet card. 
• Alumni who are members of the Amsterdam University Association (AUV).

Renewing or Changing your Library Card

Renewing Library Card

Six weeks before your Library card expires, you will receive an email with instructions on how to renew it. Haven't received an email? Mention this in the contact form or visit the information desk at UB Singel to renew your Library card. If you have a free Library card, bring your proof documents.

Changing Personal Data

Please, notify the Library of any change of address, email address,  name etc. via our contact form.

Replacement Library Card

Do you need a replacement pass because you lost your borrower's pass or it was stolen? Please report this to the Library via our contact form so that we can block your Library card. At the UB Singel location, you can obtain a replacement pass for €15* at the information desk on the 1st floor. If you can provide a police report, the replacement is free.

Alternatives to a Library Card

1. Borrow from us through your own library. Do you only need a few materials and are you already a member of a public library or another university library? Then you can request books and scans from us through your own library (interlibrary loan). Books are sent to your own library. You will receive scans by email. Ask your own library about the possibilities and costs.
2. Membership Koninklijke Bibliotheek. The Koninklijke Bibliotheek (KB) has a large digital and physical collection especially in the field of humanities and social sciences. Members of the KB can also access these digital collections from home. Continue reading on the website of the Koninklijke Bibliotheek for more information.

*incl. VAT. When paying by credit card, the amount will be charged immediately