Yes, I did get Raan's blessing, and grabbed it from the container after passing her test.

I spoke with the summoning instructor (SW corner of map) who said he was giving me a key, but no key shows in my inventory.

When I walk over the library (SE down the hallway from the instructor) the door is locked, and I can't open it.

I don't think I can progress any further in the game without accessing the library.