Q. My card doesn't work to open the Library gates - what should I do?

You need your campus or staff card to enter the building and use the library access gates. Hold your card against the 'contactless' icon and the gates will automatically open. You will need to do this on the way into and out of the library.

I can hear a quiet, repetitive beep when I tap my card

Please ensure there is sufficient space between you and the gates to allow them to operate correctly. If you are too close, a small red flashing light will be visible at the side of the gate and you will hear a quiet, repetitive beep. Simply take a small step back and the light/beep should stop.

When I tap my card, the light on the top of the gate turns red

The gates will read any card that contains an RFID chip, so as silly as it may sound please check that you are using your campus card, staff card, or guest access card to operate the gates.

A message should be displayed, which will explain why your card isn't working. For all of the below, please see the Library team who will reset your card for you:

• Already In - your card didn't register on the way out, so our system thinks you are still in the building
• No Record - there may be an issue with your card or library account, which we need to resolve
• Multiple - you have tried tapping your card in and out too quickly

During our staffed helpdesk hours a member of the Library team will be available to help. We can troubleshoot card queries in person, or you can call us on 0191 515 3691 or contact us at Library Talk.

Nothing happens when I tap my card

You must wait until the light on top of the gate is blue in order for your card to be read. Hold your card against the 'contactless' icon when the light is blue and wait for the light to turn green.

If the gates still do not open, please speak to a member of staff. During our staffed helpdesk hours a member of the Library team will be available to help. We can troubleshoot card queries in person, or you can call us on 0191 515 3691 or contact us at Library Talk. Outside of library helpdesk opening times, University Security will be able to assist you in person if you call 0191 515 2028.