How To Use The Library

Joining

The Library is for everyone. Anyone can become a member - it only takes a few minutes to sign up. Fill in a form at the Library, or if you're over 16 you can join online.

Once you've joined you can borrow books, DVDs and other items from our collection, access our online library including eBooks and audiobooks, book to use the Fab Lab, and make the most of our full range of services.

And did we mention, it's absolutely FREE!

Borrowing

You can borrow up to twelve items at a time. You get them for three weeks.

Check them out on our self-service kiosks - they're easy to use, but our friendly team are always on hand if you need any help.

There are no fines at the Library, but we always encourage you to return or renew your books on time so others can enjoy them.

Ready to return your books? Use the self-service kiosks at the Library, or drop them in at one of our return points out of Town - there are returns boxes at St Martin's Community Centre, the Castel Douzaine, and at the Salvation Army Community Centre on the Bridge. Check their websites for opening hours.

Renewing

You don't have to return your books at the end of your initial three-week loan period. Provided no one else has reserved them, you can renew them for a further three weeks. You can do this up to six times.

There are four ways to renew:

1. At our self-service kiosks. You'll need your library card.
2. Via the Library App. Download the app to your device and manage your loans in a few taps. You'll need your Library card number and PIN code. Take a look at our help page for more details.
3. Renew online via the website. You'll need your library card number and PIN code. Take a look at our 'how-to' video below for a step-by-step guide.
4. Call the Renewals Line on +44 1481 713363 or email on [email protected]. You'll need your library card number.

After your sixth renewal you'll need to bring your items back to the Library to be checked before they can be borrowed again.

Note: if someone else has reserved one of the books you have on loan, it will only be possible to renew for one week.