Hello and welcome to this short presentation on the Philosophy and Theology Faculties Library.
To get to the library, head to the Radcliffe Humanities Building at the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter. It's just off the Woodstock Road and the entrance looks like this.
To enter the building, you will need your University or Bodleian Reader Card. Hold your card to the pad shown and the door should open. There may be a delay while your card is recognised. Once inside, turn right for the library. Alternatively, you can use the intercom on the wall for help.
To enter the library, hold your card to the black square shown and the gate should open.
Head straight on for the library, or turn right for library reception. Again, you can use the intercom on the wall for help.
The Philosophy and Theology Faculties Library, or PTFL, has many thousands of books on different topics in philosophy and theology, including smaller sections related to social science, political science, medicine, law and science. Books are arranged alphabetically by shelf mark, and signs and maps like these are displayed throughout the library to help you navigate. Additional material is kept at the Bodleian Library and offsite store.
While the majority of the PTFL's collections are borrowable, Bodleian Library material is for library use only.
A number of facilities are available to support readers. On the ground floor, there is a print, copy and scan or PCAS machine, a self-issue machine for checking out books, and a number of quick search terminals with easy access to the library's catalogue, SOLO.
All of the PTFL's, collections are searchable in SOLO, including electronic resources. Reader PCs are available on the first floor. These require users to log in, but offer greater functionality, including access to electronic legal deposit resources.
The majority of the library's seating is also on this floor. This includes soft seating, traditional desks and chairs, as well as height adjustable desks. A range of accessibility equipment, including ergonomic furniture and reading aids, is available for use throughout the library.
Here are some images of our ground floor and first floor reading rooms.
As a smaller library away from the city centre, the PTFL is often quieter than other Bodleian Libraries and a smart choice during busy periods of the year. Library Reception is a staffed area near the library entrance on the ground floor.
Visit library reception for library help and to collect requested books.
Books can be returned any time via the book returns box. It's just to the right of the building's main entrance. Additional information and support is available online.
Visit the Philosophy and Theology Faculties Library web page for details of our opening times, rules and regulations, borrowing policies, library maps and support for disabled readers. You can also speak to a librarian in real-time using the live chat service available on the SOLO home page.
LibGuides are a great way to learn about resources available to help you study in your chosen subject. Visit the URL shown to get started.
Doctor Hilla Wait is the subject librarian for philosophy and theology. She is available for research specific queries and further support. Doctor Wait also considers resource recommendations for purchase. Requests for new purchases can be made via our website.
Library guidance has been updated to help keep readers safe. Users are encouraged to follow Oxford University safety advice, now on screen; to wear a face covering in the library; and to clean desks and shared equipment before and after use with the cleaning materials provided. Signage is in place to remind readers of current arrangements.
Valid card holders can visit the library without prior appointment. Self-isolating readers can contact the library to arrange for the collection and return of loans.
And finally, a reminder that staff are on site to offer library related help during opening hours. Our details are on screen.
We hope to see you soon.
