How to Join
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Who can join?
Everyone can use the library. No one is too old or too young, even babies can have their own library card.
Where can I join?
You can join at any library in Sandwell. There are 19 libraries and 2 mobile libraries.
How do I join?
If you are 16 and over, you will need to fill in a joining form. You can do this online or at any library. You will need to show identification, for example a driving licence, medical card, recent bill, student library card or cheque/credit card. If you are under 16, all you need to do is fill in a joining form and hand it to the library staff. You will need the consent of a parent or carer if you want to use the Internet. Your parent or carer can complete the consent form and you can bring it with you when you come to join a library.
Your Library Card
When you join you will receive a library card. Please bring it to the library each time you visit. You can use your library card to borrow items from the library and to make a booking on a computer. You are responsible for everything borrowed on your card, so please do not let anyone else use it.
Lost Card
If you lose your library card, please tell us at once to prevent someone else using it. There is a small charge for a replacement card.
Change of Address
If your circumstances have change you can notify us by using our online form or calling at any of our libraries.
What can I borrow and for how long?
When you join you will be able to borrow three items straight away. Your library card will then be sent to you in the post. When you have received your card, you will be able to visit any Sandwell Library and take out more items. Users can take up to 27 items including...
- Up to 12 books/spoken word items
- Up to 12 music items
- Up to 3 DVDs
Users can also borrow Toys - please visit the Toy Library page for more details.
Books are loaned for 28 days DVDs are hired for one week, CDs are hired for two weeks
What if I can’t find what I want?
Staff will help you. If we haven’t got the item you want, we will try to get it for you. We only charge if we have to ask another Library Service to supply the item you have asked for. We will tell you when the item you have requested has arrived.For Music CDs and DVDs we only take requests for items that are in stock or on order.
What happens if I can’t return my library books on time?
You can return books to any library in Sandwell, not just the one they came from. Each book you take out is stamped with the date it is due back. You can renew books on or before the date stamped in the book by phone or letter at a library or online. (You will need to tell us your library card number.) If you do not return or renew your books on time, you may be charged.
What happens if I can’t return DVDs and CDs on time?
If you renew items you have paid to borrow you will need to pay the extra hire charge when you return them.
What if I lose or damage anything I’ve borrowed?
Let us know as soon as possible. We will ask you to pay a replacement charge if it is lost or badly damaged. We do not charge for loss or damage to items on loan to under 5s.
What if I’m not able to get to the library?
There are 2 mobile libraries that stop at many places in Sandwell. If you are housebound the Housebound Library Service may be appropriate for you. To find out more, ring 0121-552 4136.