Joining and Using the Library

You need to join the library if you want to borrow items of stock or use the computers. Membership of the library is free. Once you are a member you can borrow from any of our libraries in Aberdeenshire.

How to become a library member

All you need to do is to take proof of your name and address, such as a driving licence or utilities bill to one of our libraries and complete a registration form.

There is no minimum age for joining the library. However if you are under the age of 16 and wish to join, your parent or guardian must countersign the form.

You will receive a membership card, which you need to bring to the library when you wish to borrow. If you wish to use the computing facilities or make full use of the library catalogue you will also need a PIN number which can be obtained from the library staff or online through our library catalogue.

What can I borrow?

Once you have a library card you can borrow:

• 8 books
• 8 non-book items such as videos, CDs or DVDs
• It does not cost anything to borrow books but there is a hire charge for borrowing some non-book items and these are listed here along with certain exemptions, which may apply. View the library charges
• Most items can be borrowed for a four week period.

You can renew them provided no other borrower has reserved them.
Renewals can be made in person, by phone either directly to a branch library or through the Telephone Renewals Hotline on 01224 661511, and items can also be renewed online

Reserving items

You can reserve items which are out on loan to another borrower, or unavailable at your local library but available elsewhere in Aberdeenshire. This service is free and you can reserve the item yourself using the library catalogue in your library or from home using the internet. Information on how to reserve is available here.

Requesting items from other libraries

If we do not own the particular book you require we may be able to borrow it for you from another library.

You can request non-fiction books and photocopies from journals. Charges are made for this service. Ask at your library if you wish to use this service. Visit your local library.