A to Z of Services


Joining the library - adults

It's free to join and you can choose from a million books! as well as surf the internet, email relatives anywhere in the world, borrow DVDs, talking books, access online reference collections and many other services.

How do I join?
Anyone can join the library. It's free and there are a number of ways you can do it.

a) Go in to any of our libraries and complete a joining form. If you can show us a proof of address from the list below, you will be issued with your library card and PIN number and then you are ready to use our services.

b) Print off the form below and when you have completed it, take it to any library along with your proof of address.

c) Complete the form below online and when we receive your details we will post your library card to your address. When you receive the card, take it to any library with a proof of ID and we will validate it and give you your PIN number.

d) You can also phone us on 0113 3952313 and we'll take your details and post your library card to your address. When you receive the card, take it to any library with a proof of ID and we will validate it and give you your PIN number.

What can I use as proof of address?
Driving licence, utility bill, bank or building society statement (with address still attached), rent book, benefits book, disabled parking badge, TV licence, official letter showing address (such as from university, college, Home Office, Social Services or employer). A formal letter from the Site Manager is acceptable for residents on caravan sites, house boats or traveller's sites. Please speak to a member of staff if you can't prove your address, you may still join the library with limited access to some services.

What can I use as proof of ID?
In addition to any of the items above, the following are acceptable; credit card, bank card, MetroCard, passport, student card, employer's staff pass (it must contain a photo and your signature). Again, if you have no ID, please speak to a member of staff.

Children under 16
Children under 16 are not required to provide a proof of address or ID but must have a guarantor who is required to provide proof unless they are already a member.

Library card
A member of staff will ask you to sign the back of your library card to show that you agree to comply to our Rules and Regulations. If you lose your library card please contact us so that we can stop others using it and provide you with a replacement. There is usually no charge if your library card has been stolen. If you change your address or any other details please let us know.

How many items may I borrow?
You can borrow up to 20 items at once.

How long can I keep them for?
All book loans are for three weeks, with renewal possible as long as no one else is waiting for the book you have. CDs, DVDs and videos are available for hire in some libraries. Weekly charges apply.

How do I renew loans?
You can call in to the library, write, email or phone. If you telephone, please have your library card to hand.

What happens if I return the items late?
We make a charge for any item which is overdue. The details of the charges are available in all libraries and on www.leeds.gov.uk. under Library Charges. There is a reduced rate for pensioners.

It is important to return books on time or to renew your books to avoid charges building up. If you do not return items, you will be sent a reminder and if you still do not return the items you may be invoiced, not only for the fines outstanding, but also for the cost of the item plus an administration fee.

What happens if I lose an item?
Please let us know as soon as possible. You will be required to pay for the replacement of the item.

What if I can't find what I want?
The staff will do their best to find the item for you, and for a small charge for each reserved item, obtain any item that is not in the library.

May I use other libraries?
You may use any of the Leeds libraries. Other public library services in West Yorkshire will also allow you to borrow books.

What if I change my address or any other details?
Let us know as soon as possible if any of your details change so that our records can be kept up to date.

What if I have other questions about the library?
The library staff are always happy to answer any questions about the library service. For further information on any of the library services just contact your nearest library.


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