Libraries - how to join

How do I join a library?

Anyone, of any age, can join the library as long as you live, work or study in Derby. If you already belong to a library in Derby or Derbyshire, you can use the same ticket at any of their libraries. You do not need to join again.

If you are a temporary visitor to Derby you can join as a guest.

To join, visit a library and bring proof of your name and address, for example:

  • medical card
  • driving licence
  • gas or electricity bill
  • b_Line card for 14 – 19 year olds
  • Gold Card for over 60s

If you are under 12 your parent or another adult must sign the membership form. This adult must be prepared to take responsibility for what you borrow.

You can also join the library online.

When joining the Derby Libary you must agree to the terms and conditions of the library service.

I am already a library member, how do I get a PIN?

You need a PIN - personal identification number - to use our online services:

  • search our catalogue
  • renew your books
  • search our quality information databases.

Call in person or telephone your local library.  Give your borrower number to the library, and we will activate your PIN? straightaway.

What does it cost?

It is free to join the library and to borrow books. There are charges for some library services. See the following documents for details of the charges:

When can I use my ticket?

Straightaway. If you lose the ticket, please tell us as soon as possible. You are responsible for anything issued on the ticket, even if you have not used it yourself. Please also tell us if you change your address.

How many items can I borrow?

This depends on your age:

  • If you are aged under 12 you can borrow up to ten items
  • if you are aged 12 and over you can borrow up to 20 items.  This applies to books and audio books.

How long can I keep books and audio books?

For four weeks from the date you borrowed them.

What if I keep them longer?

We may charge a late fee if you keep items after the date they are due back.  Children under 12 and Gold Card holders don't pay late fees.

How do I avoid paying late fees?

You can renew your items:

  • online through the library catalogue
  • by telephone
  • by bringing the details into the library.

You can renew them up to four times.

You don't need to bring the books. Just give us the number on the back of your library ticket. Another way to renew them is to give us the identification number of the books. You will find this on the bar code which is below the date label.  If you pay hire charges for audio books there will be a further charge to renew them.

Will I always be able to renew my books and audio books?

No. If someone else has placed a hold on them, you will not be able to keep them any longer.

Books/Audio books can be renewed or re-hired.

What if you haven't got the book or audio book I want?

We can place a hold for them if they are on loan or we can get them from other libraries for you.  You can do this yourself online, or ask the library staff. 

What if I can't get to the library any more?

There is a Home Library Service if you can't use the library because you are unable to leave your home. For more information about this service, see the Home Library Services page.

Useful forms

Downloads

Useful links

Contact details

E-mail:
Post address: Derby City Libraries
Neighbourhoods
Saxon House
Heritage Gate
Friary Street
Derby
DE1 1AN
Phone: 01332 641701
Minicom: 01332 256666

Derby City Libraries
Neighbourhoods,
Saxon House,
Heritage Gate,
Friary Street,
Derby,
DE1 1AN