Using the library

Please go to the EC Library site on My IntraComm

How to access the collections of the EC Library?

Ask your local library to request a publication for you from the European Commission Library.
You may also wish to consult publications in the Library's reading room.

Reading rooms offer you the opportunity to consult our physical resources and a substantial part of our electronic collections.
Our librarians are happy to help you with your research.
The reading rooms are open to staff of the European Commission as well as staff of other European institutions, academic researchers and students.
External researches have to register in advance by sending us an email.

For opening hours and contact email address of the EC Library, see our contact page.

How to request loans from non-Commission libraries?

Who may borrow from the European Commission Library?

The European Commission Library only meets requests for loans submitted by recognised libraries and documentation services.

The Library does not lend any material to individuals directly. Individuals who wish to borrow or use Library and e-Resources material outside the Library building should contact their institution's library or public library to arrange the loan of the material on their behalf.

What materials does the European Commission Library loan?

Most of the print books may be borrowed. The Library does not lend material restricted to library use only or in high demand from our own users.

Periodicals cannot be loaned. The Library can supply copies of articles from periodicals subject to copyright legislation whenever the terms and conditions in the license agreements allow it. Photocopy requests must comply with current copyright regulations and be of a non-commercial nature.

E-books cannot be loaned due to licensing restrictions.

How can an institution's library or a public library send requests?

The European Commission Library accepts requests sent via email.

Requests must include the following details:

Books: Title, author, publication year, call number of the item

Articles: Publication title, year, issue; article details: pages, author, call number of the item.

How long is the loan period?

Material lent to libraries generally has a maximum loan period of six weeks.

Does the European Commission Library charge for lending?

The European Commission Library only accepts payment from institution's library or public library with IFLA Vouchers.

There is no charge for loans to European Documentation Centres.