About the library service

Frequently-asked questions and other services available at East Riding Libraries.

What is East Riding Libraries?

East Riding Libraries is a council managed service providing free access to knowledge and entertainment. The expert team of librarians and support staff keep an eye on what the East Riding enjoys reading. They ensure all 23 branch libraries, and the fleet of mobile libraries are well stocked with current, popular and classic fiction and non-fiction titles. On top of reading, libraries host weekly, monthly and annual events such as interest groups, reading groups, children's activities and computer skills.

Visit the East Riding Libraries website for full information:

East Riding Libraries website (external council website)

What can I borrow?

East Riding Libraries has thousands of fiction and non-fiction books to choose from. There are also large print, audiobooks, DVDs and Micro:bits. You can also borrow and download eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers from the digital library. Visit the East Riding Libraries website to find out about all the services available.

East Riding Digital Library (external council website)

Visit the Library Catalogue (external council website)

Is the library free to join?

Yes, it is free to join the library. Join online or in branch, all you need is a valid ID.

Join the library (external council website)

How do I use the library catalogue?

Use the search bar to do a basic search by keyword, book title or author name to find new books. Use advanced search to present specific results based on your preferences. Log in to access your online library account, where you can reserve, renew and review books online. You can request or reset a forgotten pin on the library catalogue.

Visit the library catalogue

Forgot PIN (external council website)

Who can use the library?

Anybody can join East Riding Libraries, as long as you can take ID to your local library to pick up your membership card. Library computers, public wi-fi, reading tables, groups and events can be used by anyone. You do not need to be a member, however, joining is free and has many benefits, including discounts at council-owned cafes.

How do I renew or reserve a book?

You can renew and reserve books on the library catalogue or app using your library online account, or you can renew using the self-serve machines at all libraries using your library card.

I've lost my library book, library card or other items, what do I do?

Please contact East Riding Libraries as soon as you notice that borrowed items or your membership card is missing. Staff will be able to cancel your card so that nobody else can use it.

If you have lost or damaged a borrowed item, you may be charged up to the full replacement cost. If you need more time to search for the item, you can ask a member of staff to help renew the item.

If you have lost or damaged a book from the inter-library loan system or the British Library, the replacement charge will be decided by that organisation. Your local library will contact them and find out the replacement charge for you.

Find a library (external council website)

What other services are available?

East Riding Libraries have printing and photocopying services, free public Wi-Fi and free to use computers. There are also community notice boards for local groups to advertise meetings and events (max A4).

You can self-access many council services at libraries by using the free People's Network computers or by using your own device and our free WiFi. Many libraries are now within Multi-Service Centres with integrated customer services who have specialist advisors to help you.

You can pick up caddy liners at all libraries.

Some libraries have meeting rooms that you can book (charges apply).

East Riding Libraries provide a range of self-help and wellbeing information and guidance. This ranges from books on prescription to Dementia and Alzheimer's support groups and reminiscence sessions. For more services at East Riding Libraries, visit the website.

East Riding Libraries (external council website)

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