Library information services

You can ask us any question but please remember we can only give information not advice

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Whatever information you need, we can provide you with a wide range of resources, both library-based and online.

Your library has a wide range of books, covering all subjects, including local history. You can also access information using our public access computers.

We can help

If you can’t find the information you are looking for, staff in your local library will be able to help you.

You can use our Free Reference Online service to find information – you can access many online resources at home, including encyclopaedias, newspapers and journals, business information and specialist subject resources.

Unfortunately, sometimes there are questions that we just can’t answer. Your question might go beyond the scope of our resources or it might be a question that can be better answered by someone with more specialist knowledge. If this is the case we will refer you to a more appropriate source.

Useful learning, reading and wellbeing resources

You can access a wide range of trusted online resources through Somerset libraries. These links are also available on public computers in all our libraries.

Health and wellbeing

NHS website – trusted information about health conditions, treatments and services.
Safer Internet Centre – advice on staying safe online for adults and children.
Reading Well – book recommendations chosen by health professionals to support mental health and wellbeing.
Connect Somerset – local activities, groups and support services.
Patient Information – clear information about symptoms, treatments and medicines.

Online safety for parents and carers

Parent Zone – practical advice to help families manage online life.
NSPCC Keeping children safe online – guidance on social media, apps and games used by children and young people.
Childnet – resources to help children and young people use the internet safely and responsibly.

Reading and books

British Library – articles, collections and reading inspiration.
Encyclopaedia Britannica – trusted reference information for learning and research.
The Reading Agency – reading challenges, book lists and family‑friendly reading ideas.
BookTrust – books, activities and advice for children and families.
Summer Reading Challenge – a free holiday reading challenge for children.
Libby and BorrowBox – borrow eBooks, eAudiobooks and magazines with your library card.
SparkNotes – study guides and summaries to support learning.
Somerset Reads and Storytime videos – local reading campaigns and videos for children.

Create, learn and build digital skills

BBC Bitesize – learning support for children and young people.
Code Club and Hour of Code – introductions to coding and digital creativity.
Learn My Way – courses to help beginners build confidence online and learn digital skills.
Q‑Files and Knowledge – educational information for research and learning.
Scratch and TinkerCAD – creative tools for coding, design and making.
Grid Club – learning games and activities for younger children.

important

These links take you to third‑party websites. Including them does not mean Somerset Libraries or Somerset Council recommends or endorses specific products or services.

Last updated: April 28, 2026

Next review due: October 28, 2026

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