I can share some insights about the University of Reading's library policies. The University of Reading's library is primarily intended for students, staff, and affiliated researchers, but it does offer limited access to external visitors. Members of the public can access the library for reference purposes, meaning you can read books and use materials within the library premises. However, borrowing privileges are generally restricted to those with a formal university affiliation. If you're a local resident or an independent researcher, you might be able to apply for an external membership, which sometimes comes with borrowing rights, but this varies depending on current policies and available resources.
For those interested in accessing the library's collections, it's worth checking the university's official website or contacting their library services directly. Some universities offer community borrower schemes, especially if you're part of a partner institution or a registered alumni. The University of Reading also participates in the SCONUL Access scheme, which allows students and staff from other participating universities to borrow materials. If you're not eligible for borrowing, local public libraries in Reading, like the Reading Central Library, might be a better alternative for book loans while still providing a great selection of resources.