FAQs
Q What are the Library's opening hours?
See a full list of our opening hours here.
Q How do I get a library card?
Joining the Library is easy, and membership is free. Just pop into the Library and fill in a form, or sign up online. It only takes a few minutes and you don’t need any ID.
You can get a temporary card if you’re only in the Bailiwick for a short time or if you don’t have a permanent address. Find out more on our website here.
Q Can my child get a library card?
Yes, absolutely. Even newborn babies can join the Library! For children under 16 we just need a Guarantor (this should usually be a parent) to fill in a form at the Library.
Q How many items can I borrow? How long can I keep them for?
You can borrow up to twelve items. You get them for three weeks. Items can then be renewed for a further three weeks as long as no one else has reserved them. You can renew up to six times – after that, you’ll need to bring your items in to be checked before borrowing again.
If someone has reserved the item on loan to you, it will only be possible to renew it for one week. For more information on borrowing and renewing, click here.
Q Do I need to be a member to visit the Library?
No, anyone can visit the Library - you don't need to be a member. You can browse, relax and read, use the WiFi, access the computers and IT services all without signing up. You only need a library card if you wish to borrow items from the Library or use the Fab Lab.
Q What if I forget to renew the item I’ve borrowed?
Unless someone else has reserved the item you have on loan, you can still renew it even once its due date has passed. You can renew online or call the renewals line on 01481 713363.
There are no fines at the Library, but we always encourage you to return or renew your books on time so others can use and enjoy the collection.
Q You don’t have the book I want – what can I do?
You can request any item that’s not already in our collection. If it's considered suitable to add to our stock, our librarians will get it for you.
To place a request, either drop into the Library to fill in a request form, email us [email protected], or call the main Library number on 01481 720392.
Don’t forget to check our online library to see if the item is available there already.
Q I’ve lost my library card, what do I do?
Getting a replacement card is free. Just pop into the Library and ask at Reception.
Q Why can't I log in to my account?
Our system is fussy - it doesn't like letters. When logging in to your account, or using any of our online services, make sure you enter only the digits of your Borrower Number - ignore the letters GY P
If your borrower number is GY P12345678, you only need to enter 12345678
If you're still having trouble, get in touch.
Q I’ve changed my address/phone number/email address – how do I update my information with you?
It’s important to update your contact information if anything changes so that you continue receiving Library notifications. You can either do this in person at the Library, or by signing into your online account and clicking on ‘My Pages’. Here you can update any of the information in your user profile, and also change your notification preferences. You can watch our step-by-step 'how-to' video about managing your online account here.
Q My book is due back but I can’t get to the Library, what can I do?
We have out-of-town returns points at St Martin's Community Centre, the Castel Douzaine Room and at the Salvation Army Community Centre on the Bridge. If you're not able to get to those places either, get in touch - we'll be happy to help.
Q How much does printing and photocopying cost?
Printing is 20p per sheet. Photocopying is 10p per sheet black and white, or 20p per sheet in colour. Scanning is FREE. See our full price list here.
Q How do I use the Fab Lab?
To use the Fab Lab you must be at least 9 years old, be a Library member, and have a 10-minute health & safety induction on your first visit. You can book to visit the Fab Lab here.
Q A book I want is out on loan, and it's not due back for months. What's going on?
It might be that the book is on a long-term loan to a community centre or other setting. If you place a reservation, we can arrange for this item to be brought back to the Library. You can either reserve via the online catalogue or give us a call on 01481 720392.
Q How do I contact the Library?
You can email us [email protected] or give us a call on 01481 720392. See our full contact details here.