Libraries - Frequently Asked Questions

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• Joining your library
• Visiting your library
• Borrowing and renewing library items
• Using computers at Your Library
• Events in your library

Joining your library

How can I join the library?

You can find all the information you need on the Join the library page. It is free to join and you will also be given a PIN so that you can access a range of online resources.

Can children join the library?

Children and young people under 16 are very welcome to join the library. There is no lower age limit for children joining the library. They need to visit the library with a parent (or legal guardian) who will need to bring a form of ID (e.g. an allowance book, bank statement or driving licence) which contains their name and current address. If this is not possible, library staff will supply a membership form and library card to take home for signature by a parent.

Can I join the library if I am visiting Wiltshire?

Visitors to Wiltshire can become temporary members free of charge on presentation of their home library card or proof of address.

What is a PIN and how can I get one?

When you join the library you will be given a unique four digit PIN, which will allow you to access your account details, place a reservation, check your loans and renew them online. You can also use your PIN to access a range of online resources.

If you do not know your PIN you can ask for it at any time. For security reasons you will need to do this in person at a Wiltshire library, please take your library card with you for identity. You can change the number to another one that you prefer.

Visiting your library

Where is my nearest library and what are its opening times?

You can find details of static libraries here. More information about mobile library routes and times is available here.

What if I can’t get out to visit a library?

The Home Library Service is for peoplewho are unable to use their local library because they have a disability, or are physically unable to carry library books,or for carers who find leaving the person they care for difficult. A library volunteer will select and deliver books or audio items tothe persons homeon a regular basis, usually fortnightly. There are no fines or charges for this service. For more information please contact your local library.

How can I find out about mobile libraries in my area?

Wiltshire libraries operates four mobile libraries across the county. You can find detailsof their locations and times here.

Borrowing and renewing library items

What can I borrow from my library?

Library members can borrow up to twelve items on their library card. This can be any combination of books, music CDs, films on DVD or Blu-ray and talking books on cassette, CD or Playaway (mp3) formats. You can borrow and return at any Wiltshire Library providing you do not exceed this total.

Can I renew my library books / items?

You can renew books up to 4 times before you need to return them to the library. This can be done by ringing the library or doing it yourself online. Music CDs, DVDs and talking books cannot be renewed as they are hired and must be returned at the end of the hire period.

How long can I keep items?

Books and audio books are issued for three weeks, hire items for a week.

What if I return items late?

There is a charge for books that are returned late, and where hire items are kept late the charge is payable again. This applies to music CDs, DVDs and talking books. Full details are available here

Can I request a book if my library does not have a copy?

To place a reservation at your local library or online. To reserve a book online you will need to enter your library card number (with no spaces) and PIN. If you don't yet have a PIN please take your library card to any Wiltshire Library.

Can I borrow talking books from the library?

A wide selection of talking books are available in a variety of formats, full details are available here.

Using computers at your library

Can I use computers with the internet at my library?

Any adult member of the library can access a computer with the Internet using their library card, they can be pre-booked by ringing the library. You can have a maximum of 2 one-hour sessions daily.

Can children use computers with the internet at my library?

Children and young people under 16 who wish to use the PC and internet facilities need to bring their parent or legal guardian to the library to sign a permission form. This form cannot be taken home and cannot be signed by anyone other than a parent or guardian.

What do I need to use a computer?

You must be a member of the library and use your library card and PIN to log in.

Can I book a computer in advance?

Computers can be pre-booked by ringing the library or you can also book online in the library. You can have a maximum of 2 one-hour sessions daily.

Can I join the library online?

You can register for membership online. You will then need to visit the library to complete your enrolment and to obtain your library card and PIN. We will ask to see proof of your name and current address.

What is a PIN and how can I get one?

When you join the library you will be given a unique four digit PIN, which will allow you to access your account details, place a reservation, check your loans and renew them online. You can also use your PIN to access a range of online resources.

If you do not know your PIN you can ask for it at any time. For security reasons you will need to do this in person at a Wiltshire library, please take your library card with you for identity. You can change the number to another one that you prefer.

Why can’t I get my PIN online?

This is to prevent anyone else who knows your library card number being able to access your personal records using the PIN.

Events in your library

Do you have any events for adults?

Libraries hold a huge range of events for adults from author visits to carers support days. To find out more have a look at our event listings on our homepage.

Do you have any activities for children?

Libraries have regular story times and rhyme times for children. Other events are held during school holidays and every summer there is a reading challenge for older children.

What clubs and societies are there locally?

The Wiltshire Clubs and Organisations Directory lists many local groups in Wiltshire. Libraries also have events posters in their communities.

Follow @wiltslibraries

Last updated: 11 April 2012