What you need to join
Your membership will also allow you to access People’s Network computers, online learning and a host of other services and benefits.
To become a member of Somerset Libraries, you’ll need to visit your local library. You can also start the registration process online on the LibrariesWest website. You’ll be asked to complete a membership form and show proof of your identity and address.
Examples of suitable documents include:
- Driving licence
- Council Tax bill
- Council or Housing Association rent card or tenancy agreement
- Medical card
- Utility bill less than 3 months old
- Bank statement
- Building society book
If you have no proof of address, staff may be able to provide you with a limited introductory membership. You will then be able to borrow one item at a time, excluding DVDs, and access the library computers.
Your Membership Card
You will be given a card that shows your membership number. You’ll also be issued with a PIN for use on our self service kiosks, website, app and People’s Network computers.
If you register online, you’ll be given a temporary membership number and PIN. You can immediately reserve items on our catalogue. You will need to collect your membership card from the library to begin borrowing items.
You will need your membership card every time you want to borrow items, to renew or request items using our website or to use the People’s Network computers.
You can use your card at any library or mobile library in Somerset or any of the other LibrariesWest partners: Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, Dorset, North Somerset, Poole and South Gloucestershire. Your loans can be returned to any of these libraries.
Your PIN
You will be issued with a personal identification number (PIN), that has been automatically generated for your library card number. You need your PIN to use our self-service kiosks, renew or request items online, or if you want to use the People’s Network computers in libraries.
If you don’t know your PIN just speak to your local library staff. They will ask you a few questions to confirm your identity and can then tell you your PIN. You can change your PIN at any time either at your library or on the LibrariesWest website.
Children under 16
Children under 16 need an adult to register them for library membership. A parent or guardian will need to provide proof of their identity and current address on behalf of the child. They will be asked to sign the membership card as guarantor for their child’s loans until they reach the age of 16.
Reduced rates are applied to children’s memberships. See our fees and charges page for details. We will automatically amend a child’s membership category as they get older.
Change of address or contact details
It’s important to keep your membership details up to date so you’ll receive notifications and reminders.
If you change your address, email or phone number, you can amend them online or staff at your local library can update your records for you. You won’t need to provide proof of your changed address.
Lost library cards
If you lose your library card please tell your library immediately, so we can prevent unauthorised use of your card. You will be responsible for all loans on your cards even after it is lost.
You will be charged a small fee for a replacement card.
When you go to the library to get a replacement card, please remember to take identification.