Joining the library is easy and gives you access to free computer use, music, films and of course we have lots of books too.
Why not find out more?
Finding your nearest library 
Joining the library
Borrowing and renewing
- How many items can I take out and for how long?
- Do I have to pay for anything?
- How can I find the item I want?
- What do I do if I've lost my card or can't remember my PIN number?
- Can I get warnings before my books are due back?
- What if I can't get to the library to renew my books?
- I can't remember what I have on loan, how do I find out?
- What if an item isn't in my local library?
- Can I return books to any library?
Computer/Internet access and training
Access issues
Other
- What happens to old library stock?
- Does the library accept donated books?
- Need more help? Contact Ask Libraries
Where is my nearest library and when is it open?
Check out our map showing all the libraries in the county. Click on your nearest library to find out when it is open and more information about the services it offers.
How do I join the library?
Membership is free to everyone and we have 11 designs of card for you to choose from at the moment!
You can join now online and we'll post your card to you.
Or you can join by visiting your nearest library and filling in an application form.
What do I need to bring with me to join?
To join at a library bring a proof of your identity which includes your name and address, such as a driving licence, bill or rental agreement. You'll then be given your library card which you can use straight away.
No official ID? You could join now online. If you join at a library temporary registration will allow you to use the PCs and to borrow up to six items. Either way we will post your card to you.
N.B. Children and young people under 14 can join online or in a library but will need to have parental consent.
How many items can I take out and for how long?
- You may have up to 24 items on loan at any one time.
- Most items can be kept for three weeks.
- All DVDs and music CDs are one week loan only.
- If you need to keep an item a little longer it is usually possible to renew it. You can renew your items up to four times.
Libraries also have reference books which can only be used in the library.
Do I have to pay for anything?
Most of our services are free of charge. This includes:
- Using a library computer.
- Borrowing books
- Regular children's activities such as Story Hullaballoo and Rattle Rhyme and Roll.
There are some charges and fees. These include:
- Loan charges for most DVDs and all music CDs.
- Charges to request items that aren't in your library (no fee for under 14s).
- Small fee if items are overdue (no fee for under 14s).
- Charge for printing from library computers.
How do I find the items I want?
You can check what we have via our online library catalogue. This is also accessible in libraries. Staff will be happy to help you search and choose items.
What do I do if I've lost my card or can't remember my PIN number?
If you've lost your card you will need to take official proof of your address to your local library. They will be able to issue a new card and a PIN if you need it.
If you just need your PIN. You can either take your library card to a library or e-mail systems.library@nottscc.gov.uk.
Can I get warnings before my items are due back?
Yes. If you supply us with your email we will send you a courtesy preoverdue three days before your items are due back.
What if I can't get to the library to renew my books?
You don't have to visit the library to renew your items but you will need your library card number.
Renewals can be made 24 hrs a day by tel: 0845 330 4435 or via the online library catalogue*. You can also post or fax renewals to your local library.
*You will need a PIN number to access this service. If you do not have one, or have forgotten yours, please contact systems.library@nottscc.gov.uk.
I can't remember what I have on loan, how do I find out?
You can check what you have on loan easily via the online library catalogue* or by contacting your local library with your library card number.
*You will need a PIN number to access this service. If you do not have one, or have forgotten yours, please contact systems.library@nottscc.gov.uk.
What if an item isn't in my local library?
If an item isn't in your local library, ask a member of staff to place a hold for you or place a hold for an item online.
A small charge is made for this service.
If items are unavailable within the county we may be able get them from elsewhere in the UK. Please ask at your local library. There may be a further charge for this service.
A member of staff will notify you when your item is ready to collect.
Can I return books to any library?
Yes, if you borrow from one library you can return your books to any Nottinghamshire County or Nottingham City Library.
I am housebound, how can I use the library service?
If you are housebound our Home library service can bring items to you. A WRVS volunteer will visit your home every two or three weeks and bring a selection of books or spoken word tapes of your choice. Contact your local library for more information.
Alternatively a carer can come in and choose books on your behalf.
Does my library have disabled access?
Check your local library for accessibility.
All Nottinghamshire libraries have been assessed for disabled access. Everyone can use the libraries at ground level, some libraries are awaiting ramps etc to reach upper floors. Please ask a member of staff for help if you have difficulty accessing any of the services because of the library layout.
What happens to old library stock?
Ex-library stock is disposed of through specialist dealers. We also have library book sales periodically. Please contactlibraries, contactlibraries@nottscc.gov.uk, for more information.
Last updated 10 January 2011
