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Libraries joining and membership FAQs

Answers

  • How do I join the library?

    You can complete a membership form at your local library or online using the LibrariesWest website. If you are over 18 you will need to show identification linking your name and address.

    Join online

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  • What identification do I need to join the library?

    If you are 17 or under you will not need identification to join the library. If you are over 18 you will need to show identification linking your name and address, such as a gas or electricity bill, bank statement or driving licence.

    More about identification

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  • How much does it cost to join the library?

    It is free to become a member of our libraries, to borrow books and use the computers. We do charge for some services and for items brought back late.

    More about charges

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  • Where is my local library?

    You can find your nearest library using our interactive map. You simply need to enter your postcode and select libraries from the choose service option.

    Interactive map

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  • When are the libraries open?

    Opening times for each library can be found using the your local library pages.

    Your local library

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  • What is LibrariesWest?

    Our libraries are in the LibrariesWest partnership which gives you many benefits. LibrariesWest is a partnership between Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, Somerset and South Gloucestershire public library services.

    More about LibrariesWest

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  • How many books and other items can I borrow?

    You can borrow up to 20 items including books, CDs, DVDs, talking books and language courses. There is a limit of eight DVDs at anyone time.

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  • How long can I borrow my books and other items for?

    You can borrow books, CDs, language courses and talking books for three weeks and DVDs for one week.

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  • Can I keep my books and other items for longer?

    You can renew your books up to 20 times, unless someone else has requested them. If you renew your CDs or DVDs you will be charged a further hire charge, which you can pay when you return the item.

    Renewals

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  • How do I renew my books and other items?

    If you have your library card number and PIN you can renew your books online using the LibrariesWest website. You can also renew them by contacting your local library.

    Renew your items online

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  • What is my PIN?

    When you join the library we will give you a personal identification number (PIN). If you do not have a PIN or have forgotten your PIN please contact your local library.

    More about your PIN number

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  • Have you got a book or other item in stock?

    You can search for books and other items using our LibrariesWest catalogue. It will tell you if the item you want is at your local library or you can reserve it from another library. Alternatively contact your local library.

    LibrariesWest catalogue

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  • How can I reserve the book or other item I want?

    If you have your library card number and PIN you can reserve the books and other items you want using the LibrariesWest website. Alternatively contact your local library.

    Reserve items online

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  • Where can I return my books and other items?

    You can return your books and other items to any library in the LibrariesWest area.

    More about LibrariesWest

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  • Can I book a computer?

    You can book a computer in advance of your visit or you can drop in and wait for a computer to become available. You can book by asking a member of staff or by clicking on the book a computer icon before you log off your previous session.

    More about booking a computer

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  • How much does it cost to use a library computer?

    It is free to use the library computers. There is a charge for printing.

    More about charges

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  • What if I have lost my library card?

    If you have lost your library card please notify your local library immediately. We will replace your card free of charge. Any subsequent replacements in the same year will be charged for.

    More about charges

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  • What if I have moved house?

    Please let us know if you have moved house. You can update your details online at the LibrariesWest website or contact your local library and we will update your record.

    Update your personal records online

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