Library

Use Library Search to discover a wealth of academic resources, including books, articles and more, from a huge range of sources.

Our Vision

An artist's impression of Clifford Whitworth Library made in anticipation of its opening in 1971.

We've drafted a new vision for the Library's Archives and Special Collections to unlock their potential for teaching, learning and research, and to propel our service into the future. 

We invite you to read our vision and share your feedback to help us shape the future of our archives.

Northern School of Writing Publisher Fair

The Northern School of Writing Publisher Fair, 27/03/2025, 11:00-16:00, Clifford Whitworth Exhibition Space

We'll be joined by 15 Publishers for the very first Northern School of Writing Publishers Fair. The Fair will take place in the Exhibition Space at Clifford Whitworth Library on 27/03/2025 from 11:00-16:00. All welcome, no need to book.

On the day, editors and staff from publishing houses will be available for networking and conversation, and you'll be able to buy or borrow fantastic fiction and non-fiction published in The North.

Curious about a career in Libraries or Archives?

Attend our half-day event with lunch for Black, Asian, mixed, and minoritised individuals in Greater Manchester exploring jobs in Libraries and Archives. This event is taking place in Clifford Whitworth on 19/03/25 from 09:30 until 14:00.

Maxwell Hall Archive Collection - Out Now

Salford Digital Archives text with images of Maxwell Hall Collection

Did you know that our very own Maxwell Hall Building in the University has a rich musical history? We've just launched a new digital archive collection showcasing photos and nostalgic memorabilia from some of the venue’s most iconic concerts as part of our Salford Digital Archives platform.

From rare footage of The Smiths' unforgettable July 1986 concert, to Blondie’s rider from their legendary January 1978 performance, the Maxwell Hall Digital Archive offers a treasure trove of artefacts from Salford’s vibrant musical past.

Wordscope - Get support with your writing

Illustration representing two people working together taking notes

If you are in need of extra academic writing support, then you may be interested in attending Wordscope in order to help build your confidence.

  • Enhance the way that you write
  • Structure your thoughts, ideas and research
  • Become a conscious, coherent and skilled writer

Online and on-campus workshops are available.

ID cards required in the evenings and at weekends

All students/visitors requiring access to the Clifford Whitworth Library during the evenings after 17:00, and at weekends will be required to produce their ID card. Logging in to Blackboard will no longer be accepted as a means of entry.

Library staff and Security will validate ID cards by checking the card photo against the person presenting the card.

If you have lost your ID card, a replacement card can be purchased for £10.

Lean Library - Library Access, but better, faster, sleeker

Noise in the Library

If the actions of others in the library is disturbing your work, please text your location to +44 (0)1689 422053 and a member of Library staff will take care of things.

Study space in the Library

A student works in the Library

Walk-in access to study and PC spaces is available in the Library, or if you would like to book a seat prior to your visit we have specific areas in the library which are pre-bookable for study tables, PCs, Macs and study rooms.

If you would like to pre-book, decide what type of study you want to do, and where (these spaces are highlighted in blue on the floor plans), and you will be directed to the correct booking form.

Salford Digital Archives

The Salford Digital Archives logo

Find something new today. From photos to literary manuscripts, Salford Digital Archives provides access to a wide selection of unique original material for you to explore. We are growing our content offer, always looking for new opportunities to work in partnership to surface and bring rare and otherwise hidden archive content to new audiences online.

Help us diversify our collection

We want to build a collection which is inclusive of all members of our student community. We want to ensure it champions all voices, particularly those that are traditionally underrepresented in curricula and on reading lists.

Help us by suggesting a title which has motivated and inspired you, helped you with your research, developed your awareness, promoted discussions between you and your friends, challenged your perceptions or just something you have really enjoyed reading.

The books can be fiction or non-fiction, textbooks, or leisure reading, written in any language – if you want it, we will try our hardest to get it.

Find resources

Two students working on laptops in the Library

We provide high-quality resources to help make your studies a success. We recommend you start with Library Search - the gateway to our print and electronic resources, including books, journals, newspapers and databases.

Skills

Three students walking along the broadwalk path on University of Salford Peel Park campus

Learn about the key IT services and resources to support your studies; how to access online training, trainer-led webinars, and add IT qualifications to your CV with our Microsoft Office Specialist certification programme.

Archives and Special Collections

Archives image: An electric car built at the University of Salford.

We have material relating to the history of the University, from its foundations in 1896 up to the present day.

This rich and diverse resource supports academic research, teaching and learning, while also being of wider interest to local historians, genealogists and anyone with an interest in historical research.

Be aware of essay mills

Essay mills (organisations that sell essays and assessments) target students via email and social media by offering writing support. Essay mills are illegal and using them is plagiarism, which is a serious breach of our Academic Misconduct Procedure. Do not respond if these companies target you. Instead, report the email to our Digital IT team via Outlook or directly on social media (for being illegal) and block the sender.

Need academic support?

You're not expected to know everything during your studies. There will be times when you need support with your learning. Whether you need guidance on university assessments or skill development there are resources for you. Remember, plagiarism isn't the answer. Find the right support on the Skills website.

Read the Library Blog

‘Time is precious’ with a micro-presentation!