Website of the UK government

Your local library

Your local library staff will be able to help you use the library and are able to offer ideas on finding books to read. You can rent CDs and videos, browse newspapers and magazines, and surf the internet. 

Larger libraries may also offer a wide range of reference material and places for private study. Some libraries also have online services where you can search their catalogue and ask for an item to be reserved for you to collect.

• Find a public library Opens new window
• Apply to join a library Opens new window
• Find out about library services Opens new window

Search for, reserve or renew a library book

The following links will let you enter details of where you live and then take you to your local authority website where you can find out more.

• Search the library catalogue Opens new window
• Reserve a library book Opens new window
• Renew a library book Opens new window

Book internet access in a library

The following link will let you enter details of where you live and then take you to your local authority website where you can find out more.

• Book internet access in a library Opens new window

Find out about mobile libraries

The following link will let you enter details of where you live and then take you to your local authority website where you can find out more.

• Find out about mobile libraries Opens new window

Library fines

You may be able to pay fines online through your local council - use the links below to find out.

• Find out about library fines Opens new window
• Pay your library fine Opens new window

Which book to read

If you're looking for help in finding a book to read, then 'whichbook.net' is an enjoyable and intuitive way to find books to match your mood. You select criteria from a list and are then presented with a list of possible books. You can also check whether you can borrow the book from your local library.

You can discover new books from the Booktrust's Book Information site. Booktrust is sponsored by the Arts Council, England.

You can find out more about books, including Radio Four's book club website and the Big Read event, from the BBC website.

The British Council website has a list of literary festivals.

• Choose a book using whichbook.net Opens new window
• Search for new and forthcoming books published in the UK Opens new window
• Book pages on the BBC website Opens new window
• Search for literary festival in the UK Opens new window

Reading groups

If you are interested in joining a reading group, then find out about more at your local library. Alternatively, find out how to set up a reading group at the 'National Reading Campaign' website or through the 'Bookmates' venture from the Booktrust site.

• How to set up a reading group from the National Reading Campaign Opens new window
• Advice and reading suggestions for reading groups Opens new window

Find out about the historical search service in a library

The following link will let you enter details of where you live and then take you to your local authority website where you can find out more.

• Find out about the historical search service in a library Opens new window