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Welcome RCN Students!
The RCN Library and Museum isn’t just the biggest nursing resource in Europe, it’s a hub of support, learning and wellbeing for our members across the UK.
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Whether you're studying late into the night or exploring new development opportunities, the RCN’s e-library is available 24/7. And with free postal loans, you can access our collections anywhere in the UK.
We have expert staff on hand to answer your questions and a range of training and wellbeing activities every month. With your RCN library, you can access everything you need to thrive in your nursing journey from your first year to registration and beyond.
Discover the library service for RCN members
Student RCN members can join a quick online session: Introduction to RCN Library Services. Learn how to access thousands of eBooks and journals, get study support, and use tools for research and referencing. Led by library staff, this is a great way to unlock resources that are part of your membership.
Book your introduction:
- 2:00pm - 2:45pm, 30 September 2025
- 12:00pm - 12:45pm, 14 October 2025
- 12:00pm - 12:45pm, 27 October 2025
View all of our upcoming trainings and events.
Your go-to journals for study and practice
Stay current with thousands of e-journals available through the RCN library. Our journals are perfect for exploring professional topics, keeping up with nursing issues, and supporting your studies. Here are some of our top picks for you:
Nursing Standard
A go-to resource for student nurses, offering trusted news, peer-reviewed clinical articles and CPD content to help you deliver excellent care and stay informed on key developments in nursing.
Nursing Education Today
A leading journal for nursing students and educators, sharing high-quality research and big ideas that shape healthcare education. It’s a great resource for staying informed, exploring theory, and supporting your learning journey.
British Journal of Nursing
The BJN is packed with expert clinical advice, peer-reviewed research, and practical tips to support your learning. It’s a great resource for students, with helpful content like time management tips and CPD guidance to help you feel confident and prepared.
Quick, clear, and trusted: the Royal Marsden Manual
A brilliant resource for student nurses. The Royal Marsden Manual is easy to use and written by nurses, for nurses. Whether you need to check a procedure quickly, watch a how-to video, or explore guidance on patient care and self-care, it’s all there.
You can access it anytime through the RCN library webpage.
Watch Issy demonstrate how to find the manual:
A few more things we think you’ll love…
- WebChat – Need help fast? Chat live with a librarian and get your questions answered quickly.
- Study spaces – Find welcoming library spaces in Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh, and London. Perfect for focused and group study.
- Free postal loans – Love paper books? We’ll post them to you, wherever you are in the UK. We’ll cover the return cost too.
- Brilliant exhibitions – Our regular museum exhibitions cover all aspects of nursing stories and histories.
