About the Library
Welcome to the Brynmor Jones Library — the heart of learning, research, and inspiration at the University of Hull.
Welcome to the Brynmor Jones Library — the heart of learning, research, and inspiration at the University of Hull.
Introduction to the library
The Brynmor Jones Library is the heart of learning at the University of Hull. With over 1 million books, journals, and digital resources, it offers spaces for silent study, group work, or relaxed reading. Take a break in the café, prepare a snack in the student kitchen, explore the art gallery, or enjoy panoramic views from the 7th floor observatory. With over 1,000 study spaces, 500+ PCs, and 24/7 opening during assessment periods, it’s designed to support every stage of student life.
| Day | Building opening times |
|---|---|
| Monday - Friday | 8:30am - Midnight |
| Saturday - Sunday | 9:00am - Midnight * |
* Saturday 18th July: The Library will be closed between 12pm and 3:30pm for electrical works. See the Library status page below.
Please see all upcoming opening times to check opening hours for specific library spaces and services as these vary.
Hours may change during vacation, assessment periods, and University closures.
Find out about the status of services you require before your visit or find information on current maintenance by visiting our service status page.
Visit us, explore at your own pace, and become a member to unlock a world of knowledge, creativity, and community.
Download our campus map before visiting to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, helping you navigate our single site campus easily, find key locations, and make the most of your time.
Explore the Brynmor Jones Art Collection — free and open to all, with rotating exhibitions year-round.
Visit our Museum that has over 3,000 artefacts, some of which are on display in this curated museum.
Take a break at Whitsun’s Café, whether you’re after a fresh coffee, a quick snack, or a comfortable spot to unwind.
The University Library has an interesting history from 1929, via Philip Larkin, through to the modern day. View images and articles from our archives.
Brynmor Jones Library opened its doors on 8th March 1929. Agnes Cuming was the first Librarian, a post she held for 27 years.
During World War II, the already small staff decreased to only two and the threat of bombing meant almost 32,000 books were removed from the library for safekeeping.
The Library gains its first proper entrance and issue desk.
Larkin oversaw the re-design and construction of the library building you see today.
Professor Brynmor Jones becomes chairman of the Library committee. In March 1967, the Council resolved that the Library should be named after Brynmor Jones in recognition of his University work.
Stage 2 of the Library, a nine-storey tower block, is opened in July.
The University computer is installed in the Library basement. It takes up around one third of the entire space!
Hull History Centre opens on Worship Street in the city centre. The Hull History Centre houses Hull City Archives, Hull Local Studies Library, and Hull University Archives.
After extensive planning, the Brynmor Jones Library started its £28m re-development in the summer of 2012.
The University Library supported Hull City of Culture 2017. The prestigious exhibitions included important new cultural partnerships between the University of Hull and national cultural institutions.
What will survive of us is love.
Phillip Larkin
The centre is Hull’s primary hub for local history, home to the City and University Archives and the Local Studies Library. It offers public access to historic collections, research support, and regularly hosts exhibitions and events celebrating and preserving the city’s heritage.
Executive Director Scholarly Services and University Librarian
Academic Library Services Manager
Customer Experience and Insight Manager
Collections Development Manager