‘A 21st-century learning space in a centuries-old College’. The Learning Resource Centre and Sir William Leech Library give John’s students access to one of Durham’s strongest college study environments, combining modern facilities with the character of our historic setting.
Across the Bailey from the main college buildings and nestled bedside the College chapel lies the St John’s Learning Resource Centre (LRC). Hugely popular with students, this purpose-built space provides state of the art lecture and seminar rooms, accessible facilities and is home to the light and spacious Sir William Leech Library.
Spanning the upper floors of the Learning Resource Centre, the Sir William Leech Library houses more than 30,000 books across all Durham University subjects, with particular strengths in Theology and resources for Cranmer Hall.
The collection is regularly updated, and students are encouraged to suggest new titles. Alongside academic materials, the Library offers a wellbeing collection, popular fiction and non-fiction, and pop-up libraries for College events.
Open 24/7 in term time, the Library provides self-service borrowing, over 80 study spaces, a computer room, and a group study room. A lift and accessible facilities are available.
All St John’s students are automatically members of the Library. Others interested in joining may contact the Library team to enquire about subscription membership.
Archaeological excavations during the construction of the Learning Resource Centre uncovered evidence of human settlement on the Durham peninsula dating back thousands of years, including prehistoric activity long before the arrival of the medieval city. Explore the Under the Library exhibition.
We want the College Library to be a welcoming space where students can study in peace, find what they need, and feel supported by our friendly team. We’re committed to making the Library accessible, inclusive, and reflective of the diverse community we serve. Student feedback – whether through the Library Committee or our graffiti boards – helps us grow and improve.
Melissa Campey, College Librarian
Our friendly library staff are on hand during office hours.
Reception: +44 (0) 191 334 3500
Email: [email protected]
St John’s College, Durham
3 South Bailey
Durham DH1 3RJ
While the Learning Resource Centre is primarily for members of St John’s, the Library forms part of Durham University’s wider library network.
This includes integrated borrowing and catalogue systems, and students and researchers from across Durham can also request material held in St John’s library.
Alongside the LRC and Library, St John’s students benefit from the extensive resources, specialist collections, study spaces, digital services and support offered through Durham University Library and Collections.
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