Library Branches

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Libraries

How do I join the library?

Click the link for full joining information
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How many items can I withdraw at a time?

Once you are a member, you can borrow any combination of items up to a maximum of 14.

How long can I keep them for?

Most items are checked out for a period of three weeks, but many can be renewed at any library either by telephone or in person - as long as nobody else wants them!

Will borrowing items cost me anything?

Please click the link for full information
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How much are the fines for overdue items?

Please click the link for full information
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I am blind/partially sighted. Do I have to pay a hire charge for recorded sound, videos or CD Rom?

No. In this case, and for people who have difficulty reading print due to physical or learning disabilities or dyslexia do not pay hire or request charges, or fines.

Can I get access to the Internet at libraries?

Yes, you can get access to the Internet, e-mail and Microsoft Office packages (Word, Excel etc) at all libraries. There are dedicated machines for children. Access if free, but we do charge for printing. Because of the demand, we limit users to one hour per day, and you may have to wait before a machine is free. In Southend Library there is a self-booking system which allows customers to pre-book a PC up to 7 days ahead. We are sorry, but you cannot pre-book by telephone or email.

What if I can't get to the library?

You can find information on the home delivery system and mobile library services on the Library pages of the website. Home Delivery: Fortnightly visits by trained Library volunteers ensure that over 250 people across the town can continue to enjoy their Library service. The service offers books, music CD's, videos, spoken word cassettes and CD's or community information. Items not immediately available can be requested free of charge. Mobile Library: The Mobile Library provides a three weekly library service to customers living in 123 elderly people's and nursing homes, sheltered housing or hospice across the town. For more information, ring the Central Library on 01702 534100.
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• "The Process of Paint" by Juliet Holton - 2nd - 30th July
  

  This exhibition is a bright colourful exploration into the world of abstract impressionism.

• An Evening with Jojo Moyes - Wednesday 16th July, 7.30-9.30pm
  

  Jojo Moyes the highly successful and internationally admired author will be visiting Southend Library to talk about her life, the creative process, and answer any questions you may have.

• Bookstart Book Crawl
  

  A new library-joining initiative for very young children, being introduced in all Southend Libraries now.

• Free Internet Taster Sessions!
  

  Southend-on-Sea Borough Libraries are hosting a series of FREE Internet taster sessions at libraries.

• Get NOISY with Southend Libraries
  

  As part of Make a Noise in Libraries fortnight (7th-20th July 2008) blind and partially sighted people, their families, and carers are being encouraged to visit Southend Central Library to find out more about the range of free services on offer.

• Home Library Service
  

  If you are unable to visit one of our libraries, we can bring material to you.

• Joining The Library
  

  You can join the library at any age and it's free!

• Libraries
  

  Southend-on-Sea Borough Libraries is one of the busiest library services in the UK, lending more books per head of population than any other library service.

• Library Community Services
  

  Southend Central Library provides a wide range of services for disabled customers, including: Large Print books Spoken Word cassettes...

• Library Fines, Fees and Charges
  

  Schedule of current library fines, fees and charges

• Library Service Offers Free Requests!
  

  As part of our dedication to customer satisfaction, any item from another library with Southend, Essex or Thurrock Libraries can be requested free of charge!

• Library Services
  

  More Than Just Books! As well as a huge range of books, Southend Libraries provide a wide variety of other services. These include: enabling...

• New Reading Group at Southend Library
  

  Southend Library is pleased to announce that is is working in partnership with Southend Blind Welfare Organisation and RNIB Talking Book Service to launch a new reading group at Southend Central Library.

• People's Network - Monday 7th to Saturday 12th July 2008
  

  Wiring work is being carried out on the first floor of Southend Library from Tuesday 8th July for 4 days in preparation for additional PCs.

• Pre-School
  

  We are happy to welcome babies and pre-school children in all Southend Libraries. There are board books for babies and toddlers who are still learning...

• Reference
  

  On-line databases, search and enquiry facilities

• Southend Central Library Booksale - 5th July 2008
  

  Southend Central Library will be holding a booksale on 5th July 2008, 9am - 4pm.

• Southend Central Library Presents Team Read
  

  It's summer, so it’s time for the Annual Southend Libraries Big Summer Read.

• Team Read - Spring into action, 19th July 2008
  

  The summer is here and so is the Big Team Read, so kick off the holiday at Southend Library with a bundle of brilliant free events that are guaranteed to get you jumping for joy!

• Thought Patterns by Rebecca Coleman - 8th - 22nd July 2008
  

  Don’t miss this exciting debut exhibition from local artist Rebecca Coleman, a beautiful and striking display of colour and shape reflecting ever shifting moods.