Our Islamic Studies Library section is accessible to everyone.  It is a specialised resource section that focuses on providing books, materials, and resources related to Islamic knowledge, culture, history, and practice. 

Our Library aims to have the most comprehensive collection of Islamic books on all genres paying particular focus on tafsir (Qur’anic exegesis), Hadith, jurisprudence, theology, philosophy, history and political movements and thoughts. The books will consist of classical books of the early years of Islamic scholarship as well as contemporary scholarship on all the subjects mentioned above. Alongside books the Library will have an extensive E-resources’ collection.

The books will be mainly in two languages: Arabic and English. Limited books in other languages such as Bangla, Urdu and Turkish will be available. 

Comprehensive Collections:

• Qur’an and Tafsir (Exegesis): Central to any Islamic Studies library is a collection of copies of the Qur’an, including translations in various languages, and Tafsir (commentaries) that explain the meanings and contexts of the verses. These resources help readers understand the divine text in-depth, exploring linguistic, historical, and theological aspects.
• Hadith Collections: Books containing the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), with collections from well-known compilations such as Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, and others. 
• Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence): Resources that cover Islamic law and its principles, with books on fiqh (jurisprudence) from different schools of thought (Hanafi, Shafi‘i, Maliki, Hanbali) and discussions on practical issues related to worship, ethics, transactions, the lawful and unlawful and the like.
• ‘Aqidah (Islamic Creed): Works on Islamic theology that explore the fundamental beliefs of Islam, and other core concepts.
• History of Islam: A broad collection of books covering the history of Islam, from its beginnings in the 7th century to its spread across the world. This may include biographical works on prominent Islamic figures like the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the Caliphs, scholars, and historians.
• Islamic Philosophy: Works that explore Islamic thought, including classical Islamic philosophy, logic, and the contributions of famous philosophers such as Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina (Avicenna), Al-Ghazali, and Ibn Rushd (Averroes).
• Sufism: Resources on Islamic mysticism, focusing on spiritual practices, poetry, and philosophy of Sufi orders and saints, including works by famous Sufi figures like Rumi, Ibn Arabi, and Al-Ghazali.
• Comparative Religion: Books that compare Islamic beliefs and practices with other world religions, such as Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, examining points of convergence and divergence.
• Islamic Art and Architecture: A collection of books, guides, and materials on the history and significance of Islamic art, calligraphy, and architectural traditions, including the study of mosques, minarets, and Islamic designs.
• Islamic Economics and Finance: Resources on Islamic banking, finance, and economic principles, including discussions on the prohibition of riba (usury), zakat (charity), and Islamic ethical investing.
• Islamic Education: Books on the philosophy and methodologies of Islamic education, including classical Islamic educational institutions like madrasahs and contemporary Islamic schools.
• Islamic Counselling: Some libraries may offer resources or programs related to Islamic counselling, mental health, and personal development from an Islamic perspective.

Our library will have a large collection of physical books ranging from foundational texts and scholarly articles to contemporary writings on Islam in various fields such as theology, law, politics, and social sciences. We will also have a wide Digital Resources which will offer e-books, digital journals, and access to online databases containing academic papers, lectures, and Islamic educational resources. Let’s not forget our Journals and Periodicals focusing on Islamic studies, theology, law, and history, providing ongoing academic discourse in the field.

Supportive Staff and Guidance:

• Librarians Trained in SEN: Staff with expertise in special educational needs who can help guide patrons to the appropriate resources, whether for learning or leisure reading.
• Workshops and Sessions: Some SEN libraries offer educational programs, reading groups, or sensory experiences to help children and adults with special needs engage with books and learning in a more interactive way.

Facilities Available at the Library:

Study Areas
We provide designated study areas equipped with comfortable seating and quiet zones for individual study, research, group work, and collaborative projects. 

Computer Access and Wi-Fi
Our library offers free access to computers with internet connectivity for research and general use. Wi-Fi is also available throughout the library, allowing you to connect your personal devices. The computer corner is open access for academics and public use, strictly for educational purposes and job searches. Use of the library computers does require membership. The library staff will be on hand to assist you when logging in the first time you utilise one of our computers.
 
In keeping with the Data Protection Act, we advise all users against saving any work, personal information or files on to these computers as they are utilised by many people. Please note that during busy periods, we may have to restrict duration of usage of the PCs.
 

Reading Space
Our designated quiet reading spaces are the perfect spot to immerse yourself in a book or work on assignments without distractions. With ample lighting and a serene atmosphere, these spaces are designed to enhance your reading experience.

Meeting Space

Whether you have a business meeting or meeting with friends, we have space to accommodate you in our open plan Library. It’s the ideal place to enjoy coffee, discuss issues and have a catch up.  

Event and Program Space
The library hosts a variety of events such as educational seminars, author talks, workshops, book clubs and much more. These events are designed to foster a sense of community and offer learning opportunities outside of traditional reading.

Copyright guidance:

There are limits on how much you can print, photocopy or scan from any copyrighted resource.

Generally the following limits are considered ‘fair dealing’ when copying for non-commercial research or non-commercial private study:

• Up to one complete chapter of a book​
• Up to one whole article from a single issue of a serial publication or in a set of conference proceedings​
• The entire report of a single case of judicial proceedings
• In the case of an anthology of short stories or poems, one short story or poem not exceeding 10 pages in length
• OR, no more than 5% is printed or scanned​ in total from any one volume

WiFi:

Wireless internet access is available throughout the library, for staff, students and visitors.