The Religious Studies PhD programme allows you develop specialist knowledge and extend your research skills. As such, an important and exciting part of the PhD process is engaging in the literature on your chosen topic. The Templeman Library provides the perfect starting place and has a range of help available to assist you throughout your PhD:
- If you are new to Kent or need a refresher then look out for the opportunity to attend a session in the autumn term, with your dedicated Liaison Librarian for Religious Studies, Emma Mires-Richards, who will teach you how to make advanced use of library resources.
- There are reference management tools that can help you to keep track of the books, book chapters, journal articles or any other material that you use in your research.
- If there are books, articles, theses etc. that the University of Kent does not have in its own library collections, then you can request a Document Delivery from elsewhere.
- In addition to the study space provided by our division, there are a variety of dedicated spaces in the Templeman library and on campus available to you during your postgraduate studies.
- We know that PGR students work to different timetables and that’s why the Templeman Library is open all year round – though do keep an eye on our opening times.
- Towards the end of your PhD, you’ll need to think carefully about copyright but don’t worry, we have a useful copyright guide to get you started.
Remember, it’s not just the Templeman Library that can provide useful sources:
- As a University of Kent student, you also have access to the Canterbury Cathedral Library and their archives and printed books.
- As a postgraduate researcher you can request SCONUL Access; once granted, this allows you access to the libraries of other selected universities. SCONUL Access is particularly useful if you aren’t based within travelling distance of Canterbury, or if the material you need isn’t held at the Templeman Library, as it means you can still access another library closer to your home, or one that has the specialist material you need.
- Additionally, the University of Kent is only an hour away (by train) from The British Library. The British Library offers lots of resources, a space to study, and support for PGR students.
If you need any guidance about the Templeman Library or have any questions then do speak with Emma who is happy to answer questions by email (e.l.mires-richards@kent.ac.uk) or to arrange a 1:1.
https://www.canterbury-cathedral.org/heritage/archives-library/