How do I join the library?
Visit a branch or complete the online membership form. You will need:
- Photo ID - e.g. driver's licence, passport
- Proof of address - e.g. driver's licence, health care card
- If you are under 16 years of age, the signature of a parent or guardian is also required, unless you have proof of independent status
Please note: we are unable to accept membership applications from interstate or overseas.
If you join online, a membership card will be mailed to you within approximately 1 week. Once you have your membership card take it to one of our branches with Photo ID and proof of your address, to activate.
How do I get a password (or PIN)?
Visit one of our branches to request, change or be reminded of your password.
How do I change my PIN?
You can change your password by logging onto your online account. For security reasons password cannot be changed by phone or email.
If you have forgotten your password please visit any of our branches to have it reset.
How can I avoid fees?
Fees are charged for a number of reasons including items which are overdue, lost, damaged or not returned. We recommend you make a note of due dates and return or renew items on or before they are due. Email reminders about items being due are a courtesy and should not be relied on.
How do I change my address/email/phone number?
You can change the address/email/phone number for your membership by completing the online change of address notification form.
Can I use my library membership anywhere?
Your membership can be used at any of our branches and for using our online services.
How many items can I borrow?
You can borrow up to 50 items.
How long can I borrow items?
The standard borrowing period is 4 weeks. Popular items can be borrowed for 2 weeks.
How do I renew an item?
You can renew items by:
- Using My Account
- Log onto My Account using your library membership number and password (or PIN)
- Go to the Checked Out tab, select the items you want to renew and follow the instructions on the screen to renew them
- Check the due date for each of the items is correct and log out of your membership
Note: You can’t renew items online if they are overdue, you will need to phone or visit a branch.
How many times can I renew?
An item can be renewed up to 3 times, unless it has been requested by another person.
Can I let someone else use my membership card?
You are advised not to lend your library card to anyone else, and to keep it in a safe place.
You are responsible for all items borrowed on your card.
Can I borrow my wife's/husband's/son's/daughter's requests on my membership card?
No. Items must be borrowed on the card they were requested on.
Can I pick up items for someone else if I have their membership card?
You can pick up items for a family member if they give you their approval and their membership card.
Can I transfer an item from my membership card to someone else's?
Items must be returned first in case they have been requested by someone else. If an item is not requested, it can then be borrowed on a different membership card.
What does "checked in" / "checked out" mean?
Checked in means the item is available in the library. Checked out means the item has been borrowed.
How do I make a request?
To request an item, please do so using the library catalogue. Search for the item you want to request, then click on the Request Item button.
You will need your library membership number and password (or PIN) to place a request.
How will I know when my request is available?
You will be notified when your request is ready to pick up. You will be notified by text message, email, or standard mail. If you have a mobile phone number registered with your membership, that will be the default method of notification. Should you wish to change the way you are notified, please contact us.
What happens with my requests when I go on holidays?
If you are going on holidays and don't want to miss out on your requests, you should suspend them before you leave and then reactivate them when you return.
You won't lose your place in the queue, so you won't miss out.
To suspend / reactivate requests:
- Log into your online account
- Click in the check box next to the request you want to suspend / reactivate
- Click the Change Status button
How do I cancel a request?
To cancel a request that you no longer want:
- Log into your online account
- Click in the check box next to the request you want to cancel
- Click the Cancel button
Is an Inter Library Loan the same as a request?
No. An Inter Library Loan (ILL) is borrowing an item from another library service in Australia. Libraries ACT can only borrow/request physical items from Australian Libraries
How do I request items from other Australian libraries?
To request an item from another Australian library you will need to place an Inter Library Loan. You can do this online or in person at a branch.
How do I suggest an item to be bought for the library collection?
You are welcome to make suggestions for the purchase of newly published items not held in the collection. Please check the catalogue before making a suggestion.
Each suggestion is assessed based on Libraries ACT purchasing guidelines and priorities, cost and availability through our contracted suppliers.
We automatically purchase:
- Books by popular authors, recently released CD music, movies, TV series and documentaries which are widely recognised and have popular general appeal
- Books reviewed in the Canberra Times, Australian and Sydney Morning Herald.
Please check the catalogue and request these items when they become available.
How will I know if my suggested title has been ordered?
A request will be placed on the item if it is found suitable for addition to our collection. Please be aware that we are not able to reply individually to every suggested purchase.
Will I be able to make suggestions if I already have 50 holds on my card?
Unfortunately we are not able to consider your purchase suggestion if you have the maximum number of requests. Please wait and make the suggestion when we are able to place a request for you.
Is there a limit to how many purchase suggestions I can make each month?
In order to allow for the timely processing we recommend no more than 2 suggestions per month.
What types of items should I suggest for purchase?
We consider all suggestions of new titles. You can suggest the purchase of a variety of formats such as books, CDs, DVDs, audio books, graphic novels, eBooks.
Suggestions for formats such as eResources and magazines will be considered when annual renewals of subscriptions are reviewed. New eResources and magazines will be promoted on our web page when implemented. Please check periodically.
What types of items may not be considered for purchase?
Please do not place suggestions for items which are covered by our automatic purchases - check the catalogue and request these items when they become available.
What happens if the item I suggest is already held by Libraries ACT?
If the title is on our catalogue as held or “On Order” staff will add your name to the request list if they are able. Please be aware that the pick-up location is a default location – you may need to change the location to suit your requirements.
Can I return items to any branch?
Yes. You can return items to any of our branches, regardless of where you borrowed them from.
How will I know when my items are due to be returned?
When you borrow items, you will receive a printed receipt which lists the items and the dates they need to be returned by. Please read the receipt carefully, as items can have different due dates.
If you choose to receive notifications from us by email, you may also be sent a courtesy email reminder a couple of days before an item becomes due. You shouldn’t rely on the reminder email to know the due dates and return items on time.
You can check the due date for any item you have borrowed by logging into My Account, contacting us by phone, or visiting one of our branches.
I didn't get my email notice. Why not?
Make sure you check your spam filter for messages from us.
If you have changed your email address recently, please let us know.
Please note that courtesy email reminders about items becoming due are a value-added service and should not be relied on.
I've returned a book that belongs to my school / a different library. What do I do?
If you accidentally return an item and realise straight away, you can contact us and arrange to pick it up.
Items we identify as belonging to a different library are returned to them by mail. Please allow time for postal delivery. We can’t guarantee the return of mistakenly returned items.
I lent an item I borrowed to a friend who still has it, but it's now overdue.
You are responsible for making sure items borrowed on your card are returned. Please contact your friend and make sure the item is returned as soon as possible. Providing the item is not requested, you may be able to renew it for a further period of time. Overdue fees are charged for items which are not returned or renewed by the due date.
I've lost/ damaged an item I borrowed. What happens next?
If you lose or damaged an item, contact us. You will need to pay to replace the item and an administration fee.
When you join the library, you agree to pay for lost, damaged or stolen items. Charges for these items are based on the actual cost of replacement. An administration fee is also charged to cover the cost of ordering and processing the item.
If you find the item after payment has been made, a refund will not be given, however you can keep the item.
I received an overdue notice, for an item I have already returned/never borrowed. What should I do?
If you believe you have already returned an item, please contact us so we can look for it.
If the item cannot be found, it will be marked as claimed returned. This is part of the process for accounting for all items which are government assets.
The library shouldn't have ... in its collection / Why does the library have ... ?
We protect the public’s right to information and play no censorship role in the choice of resources that form the collection.
We exercise no limitation on access to publications, videos, DVDs, or CDs, except where material is classified as restricted under the Classification (Publications, Films, and Computer Games) Act 1995 (Cth), or as set out in the library loans policy.
We don’t monitor or control the content of materials offered through the internet. Filtering software is used to restrict access to some content (e.g. websites categorised as promoting violence or pornography). Our staff are available to help members use of internet, and to recommend websites on particular subjects. A number of databases and websites have been selected for inclusion in the library’s digital collections.
Parents and carers are responsible for their child’s use of the internet, in line with the Conditions of Use for Public Library Internet Access Services.
Can I donate books and other material to the library?
We only accept:
- Original items from authors or illustrators
- Material for the ACT Heritage Library, and
- Items from embassies, consulates or high commissions for our multicultural collection.
These donations are subject to the library's collection development policy. Please contact us to discuss donating.
If you have books you no longer want, we encourage you to donate your books to Lifeline who hold regular fundraising book fairs.
Can you save a particular withdrawn item for me?
No. Withdrawn items are donated to Lifeline.
How does the library choose books / DVDs / CDs etc?
We aim to have a balance of material that caters for the ACT community's lifelong learning, recreation, cultural, and information needs. It is impossible for us to hold all material that is published. We select based on broad appeal and budgetary considerations.
We use profiles and standing orders to automatically purchase popular authors, and series, as well as items reviewed in the newspaper.
Can I watch a DVD at the library?
No, we don't have facilities for watching DVDs.
My child borrowed a book from the library that I don't want them to read. Please don't issue them with books about ...
Placement of items in the children's collection is based on professional knowledge and evaluation. The inclusion of material in these collections is a guide only.
It is your responsibility to review the items your child is borrowing. Our staff don’t supervise or restrict which items people borrow or access.
What resources does the library have for people with vision impairment?
We have a range of resources available including large print books and audio books.
The Home Library Service provides services to help people who can’t select material for themselves.
Can the library display brochures / posters about my community event / service?
Yes, although we can’t guarantee we can display all material. If you want to display or distribute posters or brochures for display or distribution to the community, you can bring these into our branch/es.
Once we receive the material we will assess whether they are suitable and if we have space to display them. We will decide how long the material will be displayed.
How do I give the Library my material?
Package your material in a bundle for each branch and either mail it or drop it into one of our branches. We can then send it to the other relevant branches. Clearly label each of the bundles, for example: Belconnen Branch – Community information for display. It’s also helpful to include a cover letter including details for more information.
We recommended providing 1 or 2 posters per branch and approximately 20-50 brochures per branch. You will need to check at each branch to find out if additional copies are needed.
Do I need to be a member to use computers?
Yes, you will need a membership to book and use one of our computers. Bookings are recommended and you will need your member number and password (or PIN) to book and logon to our computers.
If you are an ACT resident and not a library member, you will need to join the library.
If you are not an ACT resident, you will need to make a booking by visiting one of our branches. You will need to show photo ID to prove you are not an ACT resident. We will then give you a single-use guest pass.
You need to arrive within 10 minutes of the start of your booking or it will expire (e.g. if your session starts at 10am, you need to start it by 10.10am).
Can I use my laptop/tablet at the library?
Yes. You can use your laptop, and where power points are available, you are welcome to plug it in.Does the library have WiFi internet access?
Yes. Find out more about computer and internet access.
Can I use my USB?
Yes. You can connect a USB to all library computers.
Can I use a scanner?
Yes. All of branches, except Kingston, have a scanner. Bookings are recommended.
Can I burn CDs at the library?
Yes. You can burn CDs on all of our computers. You will need to book a computer and bring your own blank CDs. You are subject to copyright when burning CDs.
Is there a Playstation / XBox at the library?
Gungahlin has an XBox, Playstation and Wii.
Bookings may be required.
Why does the library have a Playstation / XBox?
Computer games support literacy, logic, maths, spatial reasoning and other skills. They also encourage use of the library by children and adults who may not usually visit, and while there, those people can discover the range of other available resources and services.
Does the library have MP3 audio books? What about eBooks and eAudio books?
Many audio books on CD are now in MP3 format, please check the format when borrowing audio books.
We provide access to eBooks, eAudio and other eResources which can be used by members at home, at work. They can be read or listened to on mobile devices like laptops, smart phones, and MP3 players. A range of popular titles are available to download for loan.
A Justice of the Peace (JP) is available at these branches:
- Woden
Wednesdays 11.30 am-1.30 pm
- Civic
Mondays 12 -2 pm
- Kippax
Wednesdays 1-3 pm
- Belconnen
Thursdays 11 am-1 pm
- Dickson
Fridays 11 am-1 pm
- Erindale
Saturdays 11 am-1 pm
Please check availability during holiday periods as times and dates may change
This is a free service for ACT residents. No appointment is necessary.
Browse a full list of ACT Justices of the Peace
I've left some personal items in the library. What can I do?
Contact us to check whether your items have been found.
My library card is lost / stolen. What should I do?
If you membership is lost or stolen please contact us immediately as you are responsible for all items borrowed on your card.
How do I get a replacement for my lost / stolen membership card?
Visit one of our branches to get a replacement card. You will need to bring photo ID and pay a replacement fee.
Why is the library so noisy? That group of children is too loud. Please tell them to be quiet.
Public libraries have evolved from purely quiet facilities, to be vibrant community spaces. We don't encourage or support unruly behaviour and we ask members to be aware and respectful of others.
Visits by groups of children, and people of all ages, are crucial to developing literacy skills, and encouraging and supporting lifelong learning. We welcome these groups at all our branches, and run a range of programs for them, e.g. Giggle & Wiggle, story time, workshops, performances, and guest speakers. At certain times of the year, e.g. Children's Book Week, there are more programs running. Programs do often result in a different sound level due to their content and the enjoyment of participants.
We encourage customers who prefer a quieter environment to plan their visit at different times. Please see our list of programs and events so you can plan your visit. Staff may also be able to advise you about the quietest time to visit your branch of choice.
Will the library host my book launch?
We are happy to discuss being the venue for book launches. However, we don’t organise these events. Please contact us well in advance (e.g. 4-8 weeks) to allow time to confirm arrangements. Please be aware, we reserve the right to decline hosting events.
Can I fundraise at the library?
No. We can’t support fundraising on the premises.
Can I leave a petition at the library?
No. We can’t support petitions.
I'm an author/illustrator/entertainer. Are there any opportunities for me at your library?
We welcome contact from authors/illustrators/entertainers. Please provide details of your skills and experience when you contact the library.
Will the library pay for damage to my equipment caused by using library CDs/DVDs/audio books?
We are not responsible for damage done while using our material, and each of our branches display disclaimer notices to inform members of this policy.
Is it true that I can eat and drink in the library?
Yes. Please feel free to eat your lunch or a snack while you enjoy the library. We do, however, ask that you not consume food which is highly aromatic or may cause an allergic reaction. Please take care to dispose of rubbish thoughtfully.
Why is the library food and drink friendly?
We encourage responsible use of the library and its resources.
Some people can only visit during their lunch hour, while others spend the whole day studying. Parents and carers with young children, and people with specific medical needs may also need to eat while visiting the library.
What is a Little Free Library/Street Library? Who looks after them?
Little Free Libraries and Street Libraries are part of a world-wide book sharing movement. Little Free Libraries and Street Libraries are independent, and not associated with Libraries ACT, however we are happy to see so much love for books and reading. Take a look at the Lil Street Libraries Canberra facebook page.
Are there photocopiers at the library?
Yes. Coin operated photocopiers are available at all branches, except Kingston. All photocopiers are black and white.
Can I print from library computers?
Yes. Black and white printing is available from all of our computers.
Can I print while logged on to the library's WiFi?
No. Printing is not available through the WiFi.
Can I send a fax from the library?
No. Please try a local newsagent or post office for fax services.