It is really important – especially now, when the new exam period is fast approaching and you spend more time in the library – to carefully plan your visit. This post provides useful tips for you to stay safe while studying here or leaving home late at night or very early in the morning.

In the library

Our libraries are safe places to study at day and night, yet you have to be vigilant because opportunistic thieves can strike anywhere and anytime.

• Look after yourselves and your belongings – take breaks, but do not leave your personal belongings unattended. Always keep your valuables with you or secure them out of sight.
• If you have to leave your study space, ask a friend to watch over your belongings.
• Read our Library Guide on Laptop Security.
• Back up work from your laptop on to a memory stick or H: drive. In case your laptop disappears, you will still have your files saved.
• Make sure your valuables are properly insured.
• If you have any problem, ask the help of the library staff or the security person
  on site.

Leaving the library in the night or early morning

By car:

• Park your car near good lighting, close to the library.
• Have your car key ready as you approach your car.
• When driving, if possible keep your doors locked.
• Student parking is available via annual permits or daily vouchers.

By taxi:

• Book a taxi in advance.
• Make sure you check the name you gave the cab firm with the driver.
• Travel with your friends if you can, and always sit in the back.

By night buses:

• Plan your journey in advance. Check the timetable for night buses on the websites of First Bus Aberdeen or Stagecoach bus services.
• On public transport, sit near groups of people or the driver.
• Travelling on a double decker bus, always stay downstairs.

By bike:

• If you ride a bicycle lock it with a D-lock. You can buy bike locks – nearest to the University – at Halfords, in Kittybrewster Retail Park, Aberdeen.
• Across the University campuses, there are more than 600 parking spaces for bikes. Storage ranges from open air Sheffield stands to cover sheds.
• You can also secure a Cycle Locker for your bike at both campuses. You can read more about cycle safety here.

By walking home:

• Take care if leaving the library in the night. Walk home with friends or fellow students.
• Avoid getting or looking lost.
• Stick to well-lit and well used areas. Do not take short cuts through dark or remote parks or alleyways.
• Be alert to your surroundings. Do not chat on your mobile phone or keep your headphones in while you are walking home alone.

Other useful contacts

Police Scotland – Aberdeen
Police emergency contact number: 999
Police non-emergency contact number: 101
Scottish Fire and Rescue Services – Aberdeen
NHS 24 hour service contact number: 111
CluedUp – University of Aberdeen web pages on security
Aberdeen City Council webpages on safety
Safer Aberdeen App
Security Office (Old Aberdeen Campus) – campus map
Security Office (Old Aberdeen Campus) – web pages

Library Services
library@abdn.ac.uk