University of Exeter – students and staff

University of Exeter Membership at the Devon & Exeter Institution (DEI)

The University of Exeter and the DEI enjoy a close and long-standing partnership. While the Institution is an independent library and educational charity, we are delighted to work closely with the University to support teaching, learning, and research.

Complimentary Memberships 2025–26

Please note that our allocation of complimentary University memberships for 2025–26 is now full. Due to a viral TikTok post, we received an unusually high number of sign-ups during the first week of term – a process that would usually take over six months.

Purpose of University Membership

University Membership is designed for those who:

• Require access to our historic and local collections for research;

• Wish to become involved in our community through volunteering, internships, or contributing to events and lectures.

The Institution is not a general study space. However, if capacity allows, we will accommodate study requests on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Study space is usually available in the south range: The Blue Room, Parlour, or Green Room.

• Our historic libraries are reserved for those actively accessing the collections.

• Please note that the Courtenay Room café is a laptop-free zone, designed for reading, conversation, and refreshments.

Accessing the Collections

If you specifically need access to our collections, you may be eligible for Research Access Membership.

• This option is limited to current University of Exeter students and serving academic staff.

• Administrative and Professional Services staff, and honorary or retired staff are not eligible.

• Research Access Membership is subject to a one-off £15 joining fee.

To apply, please email [email protected] and arrange to sign up in person with the Librarian.

Once we have signed you up and payment is confirmed, you will receive a Welcome Pack via email. This includes important guidance on making the most of our building and resources.

Renewing Your Membership

Both University and Research Access Memberships run in line with the academic year.

• Membership must be renewed before the start of each new academic year, regardless of when you joined.

• In May/June, you will receive an email asking you to confirm your continued eligibility and wish to renew.

• If we do not receive a reply, we will assume you have left the University and remove your details from our system.

• If you later wish to re-join, you will need to pay the £15 joining fee again.