Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to join the library?

You need to become a member of the library only if you wish to borrow books or other items, or if you want to use a PC.  If you wish to study, find information, pick up a leaflet or simply have a look around, you can do this without becoming a member.

How do I become a member?

Membership of the library is free and open to all.  You will need to show two proofs of identity with  your current address.  Young people under the age of 14 need to have their application form signed by a parent or guardian.  Parents may even join the library on behalf of their babies.

How many books may I borrow?

Each person may borrow up to twelve books.  Books are loaned for three weeks unless they are in heavy demand - then the loan period is limited to two weeks.

What if I want to keep an item for a longer period?

If you want to extend the loan period on any item you have borrowed, you may do so as long as another customer does not require it.  Items may be renewed either in person, by telephone or by post. Please give your library ticket number.

Do I pay for anything?

The loan of books is free!  A charge is made on books and other items which are overdue.  There are hire charges for Sound and Vision items and a fee is payable for reserving a book.  There are concessionary rates for senior citizens, unemployed people and those in receipt of benefit.  Registered blind customers are entitled to borrow six story cassettes and two music items free of charge.

What if the item I want is not available in the library?

Books, CD's, cassettes and talking books can be reserved at any library for a small fee and you will be notified when the item arrives.  We regret however that videos cannot be reserved.  As a customer you actually have access to over three-quarters of a million books and other items in Sunderland Public Libraries and we also have links with other libraries all over the country.  We will try to obtain items that we do not have in stock.

Can I use the Internet at a library?

Yes, every public library in the City has at least one pc that customers can use to get access to the Internet.  There is no charge for this service but a fee is charged printing, and for the purchase of floppy disks if required.  At large libraries it may be advisable to book a pc in advance as demand is high.

You must be a library member to use this service and be over the age of 16.  If you are between 8 and 16 you can use the Internet only if you are accompanied by an adult, or if you have filled in an Internet disclaimer form that has been signed by a holder of parental responsibility.

Visitors to the City can access the Internet as a guest by filling in a form.

Can I attend a computer course at a library?

A number of libraries provide access to computer courses in partnership with the City of Sunderland College.  These are available at :-

• Washington Town Centre Electronic Village Hall
• Doxford Park Electronic Village Hall
• Hendon Library and Learning Centre
• Hetton Centre
• Houghton Library and Learning Centre

The courses include First Steps to Using Your Computer, New CLAIT, New CLAIT Plus and ECDL.

Most courses are free - please contact the library involved for further details.

Sandhill Centre Electronic Village Hall and Southwick Library also run a range of leisure ICT courses including Family History on the Internet.

What is the People's Network?

The People's Network is a project which has connected all public libraries to the Internet, as part of the Government's commitment to give everyone in the UK the opportunity to get online.  Lottery funded by the New Opportunities Fund and managed by Resource more than 4000 library centres have been created through the initiative.

In Sunderland funding from the People's Network project has enabled 72 new pc workstations to be installed, all with access to the Internet and a range of other services including :-

• Scanning equipment
• ICT resources for users with special needs
• Colour printing
• Broadband connection to the Internet
• Print and user management service.

Book Sale

Sunderland Public Libraries have books available for sale at each service point on a regular basis.  Larger book sales are held at City Library and Arts Centre and Washington Town Centre Library, these are advertised well in advance.  For further information please contact your local library.

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