Libraries

Corpus has two libraries. The Taylor Library, which is primarily used by undergraduates, was built in 2008 and is very well-stocked, containing more than 43,000 items.  It can be accessed 24 hours a day during term-time and is WiFi-enabled. Most of the books you require for a weekly essay or problem sheet can be found in this library; if not, just ask the librarians to order the book in question.

Our second library, the Parker Library, is more specialised and home to an unique collection of early medieval manuscripts, especially those dating from the Anglo-Saxon period. The Parker Library is one of the most famous institutions of its kind in the world, and contains some of the earliest surviving manuscripts in Britain, which attract scholars from around the world for research purposes. The librarians also welcome visits from Corpus undergraduates to tour the collection.

College JCR and Bar

When you need to take a study break, head over to the Corpus JCR. The JCR (Junior Combination Room) is both a place and an organisation.  Literally speaking, it refers to the undergraduate common room, which contains a TV, a table tennis table and a wide range of newspapers and magazines.  The college bar, known as the Pelican Bar, is one of the best in Cambridge, with a great selection of beers, wines and spirits, as well as soft drinks.  The bar is equipped with table football and pool tables, in addition to another TV, and is the venue for many College social events such as ‘slacks’, or parties.

The other guise of the JCR is the student body as a whole, which regularly organises events for students at Corpus, from open mic nights to the College May Ball, held every two years after exams have finished in June. Every year the JCR elects a committee to represent the students within the College and to oversee many different aspects of student welfare.

Corpus is known in Cambridge for having an exceptionally friendly and welcoming environment, and the JCR plays a large role in maintaining this atmosphere.

Want to see for yourself?

Come and visit us on an Open Day and talk to our undergraduates about student life at Corpus, or email us at admissions@corpus.cam.ac.uk if you’d like to visit at another time.