Library and Information Service
Welcome to Sandwell Libraries' website, where you can find information about our services and events, renew your items on loan, search the library catalogue and much more.
Use the links on the left or right, or listed below, to find the range of services available.
XBox & Wii Coming To Bleakhouse & Smethwick Libraries
Smethwick and Bleakhouse libraries, working with charity Krunch, will soon be hosting interactive gaming sessions for young people aged 11 to 16.
From September 2010, young people can join in on X Box games and the Wii, or try their hand at DJ-ing, lyric writing and music production. All young people are welcome, however the libraries are keen to engage with those who, due to anti social behavior, have been excluded in the past. The games are a way of initially engaging with the young people however they will also benefit from the support of experienced mentors who focus on raising their aspirations and releasing their potential.
Summer Holiday in Sandwell Libraries
2010 promises to be a great summer in Sandwell Libraries. Why not come along and take part in this year's Summer Reading Challenge - Space Hop. Read six books and collect stickers and small prizes along the way.
There's also a host of activities going on in all of our libraries.
Valley Road Express Library closure
Valley Road Express Library will be closed until further notice due to significant flood damage at the site. For further information please contact Blackheath Library on 0121 559 1884.
Great Bridge Library Re-opens
Following an 8 month refurbishment, Great Bridge Library has now re-opened. There are lots of new books and other items of stock, additional computers to use, and also Sandwell Libraries' first self-service kiosks for customers to use.
Libraries for the Future
Blackheath Library is to undergo a landmark £1.9m build. The three story venue will house the library on the first floor. Facilities will include customer toilets, a refreshment area and space for training courses.
Work also began this summer to create a three story building for Oldbury Library on the site of the old bus station in Oldbury. The £6m flagship venue will be called Jack Judge House, named after the Oldbury-born songwriter who wrote ‘It’s a long way to Tipperary’.
Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for culture and leisure Cllr Linda Horton said: “This wave of investment by the council and its partners on new and revamped premises will ensure we can continue to offer the standards of service our customers deserve.”
Online Resources
Search the catalogue to find items in stock at Sandwell Public Libraries and Sandwell College Libraries.
- Search the catalogue
- Join the library
- Directory of Local Organisations - information about all kinds of organisations, groups, clubs and societies in Sandwell
Library members can register to:
- Renew your items on loan
- Reserve items in stock
- Use our online electronic resources - such as Britannica Online and Oxford Dictionary of National Biography
News and Events
All the latest news from the Library Service and details of some forthcoming events.
Books and Reading
A wide selection of books, and spoken-word audio on CD and cassette. We also have author events, storytelling cafes and reading groups.
Children's Services
We offer Games Zones in our Learning Centres, Homework Clubs for study and our Toy Library allows you to borrow toys.
Help and Information
Our specialist staff will answer your enquiries, and we stock reference books, maps and directories as well as a wide selection of newspapers and magazines. Our online resources can provide access to a huge range of information.
Computers and Learning
Our Learning Centres provide free access to 250 computers, where you can search the Internet, check your email, or use our office software. We also offer computer courses from beginners to advanced.
Media Services
As well as books, Sandwell Libraries provide DVDs and CDs which may be borrowed. These include the latest movies, chart music and a selection of children's DVDs.
Customer Service Excellence in Sandwell Libraries
Sandwell Library & Information Service has successfully reached the Customer Service 'Excellence' standard. This is a formal Government assessment which shows commitment to providing excellent customer service.