Joining the Library

How do I join the library?
How can my child join?
At what age can my child join the library?
What can we borrow on our library cards?
Do we both need a PIN?
What is the best way to renew items?
Are there concessions for children?

How do I join the library?

You can join in your local library but remember to take one form of ID, showing your name and address. If you prefer you can join online now and collect your library card from your library of choice.

It's the same process as joining yourself except you will need to sign as guarantor for everything they borrow until they are 16. If you are a member your own library card can be used as proof of ID. So join your child at your local library or join online now.

At what age can my child join the library?

From birth! There is no age restriction to library membership.

What can we borrow on our library cards?

Do we both need a PIN?

Yes! A Personal Identification Number can be used to renew and request items online. Plus, many useful online resources require you to log in with your library card number and PIN.
Don't forget that children can request items for free but only on their own library card!

What is the best way to renew items?

To make it easier for you to keep track of your family's items you can link your children's cards to yours. This means that you can log in online using your library card number and PIN and renew everything! You can also phone your local library and renew everything but do remember to give your card number first. Unfortunately only one parent can be linked to children's cards.
More information on renewing items can be found by clicking here.

Are there concessions for children?

Yes, there are. Children under 16 already have free reservations and a much reduced overdue charge. However, if your child is registered visually impaired, hearing impaired or dyslexic they are also entitled to free audio visual loans. Proof of the entitlement is required and you can update your child's status at any time.
Click here for more information about fines and charges

The Virtual Library