The Universidad de Lima Biblioteca is the central academic library of the University of Lima in Peru, housing over 200,000 volumes, extensive digital resources, and specialized study areas. This guide serves as a practical recipe for navigating the library effectively—covering access requirements, key services, study spaces, and insider tips to make the most of your visit. Whether you are a student, researcher, or visitor, this comprehensive resource helps you use the library efficiently and comfortably.
Ingredients
- Valid university ID (for students, faculty, or staff) – 1
- Library card or registration (if external visitor) – 1
- Laptop or tablet – 1
- Power adapter (if needed) – 1
- Headphones – 1 pair
- Notebook and pen – 1 set
- Water bottle (with lid) – 1
- Student discount card (for printing) – optional
- Time (at least 2 hours for a productive session) – 1 block
Instructions
- Verify access requirements. Check the library’s official website or ask at the entrance about current access policies. For university students, your ID is usually sufficient. If you are an external researcher, contact the library in advance to request a visitor pass, which may require a letter of intent or a fee.
- Locate the library building. The library is on the main campus at Av. Javier Prado Este 4600, Monterrico, Santiago de Surco, Lima. Use the campus map or follow signs from the main gate. If driving, note that parking is limited; consider public transport or ride-sharing.
- Enter and register. Upon entering, present your ID at the security desk. For first-time visitors, you may need to fill out a short registration form. Keep your ID visible at all times—it is required for borrowing and for accessing certain floors.
- Explore the floor guide. The library has multiple floors, each with a specific function: the ground floor typically holds the circulation desk, current periodicals, and group study rooms; upper floors house the main book stacks, quiet study areas, and the digital resources lab. Grab a floor map at the entrance or check the interactive kiosk.
- Find your study spot. Choose a quiet area on the upper floors for individual work, or reserve a group study room (available online or at the circulation desk) if you are collaborating. Many tables have power outlets and good lighting. If you need a computer, head to the digital resources lab, which offers PCs with internet and academic software.
- Use the catalog. Search the online catalog (OPAC) on the library’s website or via in-library terminals. You can search by title, author, or subject. Note the call number and location (e.g., “3rd floor, section QA76”). For books in closed stacks, request them at the circulation desk—delivery typically takes 10–15 minutes.
- Borrow or photocopy materials. To borrow books, take them to the circulation desk with your ID. Most books loan for 15 days (renewable online). For reference materials or journals, use the photocopy machines (bring coins or a prepaid card) or scan documents using the library’s scanners (free for students).
- Access digital resources. Connect to the campus Wi-Fi (usually “ULIMA” or “ULIMA-VISITANTES”). Use your student credentials to access databases like EBSCO, JSTOR, or SciELO from the library’s website. If you are off-campus, use the VPN service provided by the university.
- Take breaks smartly. The library has a cafeteria or snack area on the ground floor. You can leave your belongings at your study spot, but do not leave valuables unattended—use the lockers if available. Re-enter with your ID.
- Return materials on time. Before leaving, check your loan due dates. You can return books at the circulation desk or the 24-hour return box outside the library. Overdue fines are small but add up—renew online to avoid them.
Tips
- Substitutions for access: If you are not affiliated with the university, consider using the National Library of Peru (Biblioteca Nacional del Perú) instead; it offers similar resources and is open to the public. Or, contact the Universidad de Lima library to ask about temporary research passes—they are often granted to graduate students or faculty from other institutions.
- Storage of personal items: Use the free lockers near the entrance for bags and coats. The library is not responsible for lost items, and security may ask to inspect bags when you leave.
- Common mistake—ignoring the noise zones: Each floor has a designated noise level: silent study on the top floors, quiet conversation on middle floors, and group work areas on the ground floor. Respect these to avoid complaints from other users.
- Common mistake—forgetting to bring your own supplies: The library does not provide paper, pens, or USB drives. Bring your own, or buy them at the campus bookstore. Also, the printers require a prepaid card—load it at the circulation desk.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your library session with a visit to the on-campus coffee shop for a caffeine boost, or take a walk through the university’s green areas to clear your mind. For a full research day, plan to have lunch at the campus cafeteria, which offers affordable Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado or ceviche. The library also hosts occasional cultural events and book presentations—check the bulletin board for a chance to enrich your visit.
Variations
- Group study mode: Reserve a group study room (holds up to 6 people) and use the whiteboards and screens for collaborative work. Book at least a day in advance during exam season.
- Digital-only mode: If you prefer remote access, use the library’s virtual services: e-books, online databases, and chat with a librarian. This is perfect for off-campus research or late-night study.
- Special collections: The library has a rare books and archives section, accessible by appointment. This is ideal for historical research or viewing original documents related to Peruvian history and culture.
- Extended hours mode: During final exams, the library often extends its hours to 24/7. Check the schedule and take advantage of the quiet late-night study sessions.
Storage and Reheating
For research notes: Save your work to cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or a USB drive. The library’s computers do not save files locally, so always export your documents before logging off. For physical notes, keep them in a folder and store in your bag—do not leave them in the library overnight.
For borrowed books: Keep them in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Return them by the due date to avoid fines. If you need to renew, do so online up to two times, unless another user has placed a hold.
For digital downloads: Downloaded PDFs and e-books are usually available for a limited time (often 24 hours). Save them to your device and back up to cloud storage. For long-term access, use the library’s permanent links or request a print copy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter the library without a university ID? External visitors can enter with a temporary pass, which must be requested in advance. You will need to show a valid ID and explain your research purpose. Some services, like borrowing, are restricted to university members.
Is the library open to the public? Yes, but with limitations. The public can use the reading rooms and consult reference materials on-site, but borrowing privileges are reserved for students, faculty, and staff. Check the library’s website for specific visitor hours, which may differ from regular hours.
How do I print or photocopy documents? Printing and photocopying are available on the ground floor. You need a prepaid card, which you can load at the circulation desk with cash or a student card. Black-and-white printing costs about 0.10 soles per page; color is more expensive. Scanning is free for students.
Can I access the library’s databases from home? Yes, if you are a current student or faculty member. Use the university’s VPN service or log in via the library’s website with your institutional credentials. Off-campus access is available for most subscribed databases.
Are there quiet study areas? Absolutely. The top floors are designated silent study zones, and you will find individual carrels and large tables with good lighting. Group study rooms are available on the ground and first floors—reserve them online to guarantee a spot.
What are the library’s hours? During the academic term, the library is typically open Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Hours may vary during holidays and exam periods, so check the official website for the latest schedule.
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