Library services and facilities

There are a range of services and facilities on offer at our libraries.

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Facilities

Facilities at the library include:

  • free wifi
  • books
  • information services
  • printing and scanning
  • photocopying – colour and black and white in A4 and A3 available during staffed hours
  • free computer and internet access with full range of Microsoft software
  • language learning packs
  • audio books
  • books in large print
  • learning opportunities
  • newspapers and magazines
  • DVDs for hire (Bradley Stoke, Cadbury Heath, Hanham, Staple Hill and Yate only)
  • regular and one-off events and activities for all ages

Check our library charges page for prices.

Accessible library services

Our library facilities and services are designed to be accessible to all. We provide a range of services for people who have disability or cannot go to the library in person.

All our libraries offer:

  • resources in any format including Braille (these can be ordered)
  • adaptable furniture

Home library service

If you are unable to visit your library due to temporary or permanent disability and have no one who can call in for you, contact the library and ask about our home library service.

Most libraries have several volunteers, themselves regular library users. They will call on you at your home, initially with a member of the library staff to discuss your requirements. The volunteer will then agree with you the frequency of visits and the number of books and discs that you would like.

If you would like to use this service or know of someone else who would benefit from it, contact your local library. Find out more about volunteering with the home library service.

Computers and wifi

All libraries provide free use of computers and access to the internet. There is a range of software (such as Microsoft Office) available and a free wifi service.

At busy periods all the computers may be in use, so we advise you to book your session in advance. Call our contact centre on 01454 868006 to book a session in any South Gloucestershire library or, if you have access to a smartphone, you can use our online computer booking system.

Although access to the internet is filtered and users must agree to our acceptable usage policy, we cannot guarantee that every offensive site is filtered.

If parents have any concerns about their child using the internet we recommend they do not leave them unattended.

Accessible IT

All our libraries offer accessible IT facilities and tools including:

  • magnifier
  • text to speech narrator
  • on-screen keyboard
  • language options
  • high contrast

RNIB Technology for Life

The RNIB service supports blind and partially sighted people in their use of technology. It is available at Yate Library by appointment only.

For more information visit the RNIB Technology for Life website or contact the RNIB Technology for Life team by emailing tfl@rnib.org.uk or phoning 0303 123 9999

Printing and scanning

All our libraries offer full printing facilities and have a scanner connected to one PC. We advise you to book your session in advance if you wish to use the scanner.

Check our library charges page for printing prices. There is no charge to use the scanner.

Print from your own device

You can print from your smartphone, tablet or computer at one of our main libraries or remotely.

Log into our printer server Netloan and follow the instructions to upload and print your files. You will need your:

Log into Netloan to print from your device

When you print remotely, you have 24 hours to collect your printing. Collect and pay for your printing by card using a self-service kiosk or pay by cash to a member of staff.

Download full instructions on how to print from your device.

Library space for hire

The library buildings and computer suites are available to hire for meetings, events or courses outside of opening hours. Separate meetings rooms (without computer facilities) are available at Emersons Green, Staple Hill and Yate Libraries.

If you are interested in hiring a library space, in the first instance check availability with your preferred library.

Borrow a thermal camera

We have thermal imaging cameras which can be borrowed from libraries so you can find out exactly where your home is losing energy. Find out more on our Borrow a thermal camera page.

Visit a UWE Bristol library

You can sign up with UWE Bristol Libraries for free visitor membership to access academic materials for study and research.

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