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You're never too young to use the library. Children can join the library as soon as they are born. Sharing books from an early age is fun and educational. It helps children learn to read, write and talk. |
Give your baby a head start and help them discover the pleasure of sharing books by getting their first library card. It is very easy to join the library. There are no forms to fill in - just ask a member of staff to help you to register. No proof of identity or address is needed. Your child will receive their card and can start borrowing books straight away. Your child can borrow up to 10 books and keep them for 3 weeks. And it's free.
Babies and children are very welcome in libraries. Still not sure? The questions and answers below cover our most common queries about babies and libraries.
Q. What if my baby cries or makes a noise?
A. Don't worry we welcome babies and very young children in our libraries.
Q. Can I bring my buggy or pram into the library?
A. Yes.
Q. Will I have to pay if I can't bring my baby's books back in time?
A. There are charges for the late return of books, however you can renew your books online using the library catalogue (see Related Links below) or by phoning or emailing your local library.
Q. What if my child needs the toilet?
A. A toilet is always close at hand for under 5s - just ask a member of staff.
Q. Can I breastfeed in the library?
A. Yes. We do not have private breastfeeding facilities but will try to offer somewhere discrete and can give information about any nearby facilities that are open to all.
Q. My baby can't read so what can he/she borrow from the library?
A. Libraries have lots of books and materials specially chosen for very young children. These include board books, picture books, big books, lift-the-flap books, nursery rhyme books and alphabet and counting books. Every baby is entitled to a free bag of books from Bookstart.
Q. What else does the library have for under 5s?
A. Stories on tape and CD, video's and DVD's, music CD's, computers for under 5's, regular activities for young children, storytimes and rhymetimes.