Joining a Library

Your library has a huge range of services for you and your family to enjoy. Whether you are studying or simply reading for pleasure, you have access to nearly one million books within County Durham and millions more countrywide.

You can search all we have using the online catalogue. Alongside local libraries, mobile libraries visit many villages in the County and we also provide a housebound service for those people unable to visit their local library. Our main reference library is found in Durham Clayport Library

Can anyone join the library?

Yes, anyone at any age can join the library. We welcome new people using our services.

How do I join?

Visit the library of your choice where staff will register you as a member. You'll need to take evidence of your identity and current address (e.g. rent book; driving licence; benefit book; gas bill; electricity bill). Or you can join online via our Library Online pages.

Will I have to pay?

No, joining the library is free.

What happens when I've joined?

You'll be given an information leaflet and a library card. You must produce your library card each time you want to borrow items or use our computers. Library staff are very friendly and will be happy to explain how to use the library and explain what is available so don't hesitate to ask them anything you need to know.

What can I borrow?

Full membership allows you to borrow up to 12 books and where available 6 CDs, videos or DVDs, talking books and 2 language courses. Interim membership allows you to borrow up to 3 items.

How long can I keep them?

You can keep books and talking books for 3 weeks, CDs, videos and DVDs for 7 days.

What if I want to keep items longer than 3 weeks?

If you wish you can renew items as long as someone else hasn't requested them.

This means that you may keep any books you have borrowed for a further 3 weeks. CDs, videos and talking books may be kept for a further 7 days and will be subject to a re-hire charge.

How do I renew what I've borrowed?

You can renew items by visiting your library, by telephone or by using Library Online.

Do I need to return items to the library I borrowed them from?

No, you can return them to any library if necessary.

Can I ask for items, which aren't on the shelves?

Yes. We can supply any loan items in stock and borrow books from almost anywhere in the country.

How much does this cost?

Costs vary and there are some concessions. Please check our list of Libraries - Libraries Charges and Fines.

What if.....?

• I lose my ticket - inform library staff immediately. Please note a replacement fee may be charged.
• I move house - tell staff the new address.
• I lose or damage an item - an appropriate charge will be made.
• I return things late - fines are charged but it's easy to renew.
• I want to make a comment about the service - customer response forms are available at every library.