Books and moreStories are for sharing at the library

Reading improves literacy, feeds the imagination and helps relieve stress.
Your local library has free titles for every age and interest, in formats that mean everyone can enjoy the pleasure of a good book.

Books are free at your library

It’s free to join the library, and when you do you can borrow books for free.

At a library you can borrow multiple books at a time. You can renew them for free if you don’t finish them before the due date (as long as someone else hasn’t reserved them).

Many libraries let you renew books without visiting in person - for example, by using their website.

Once you have a library card you can access books and other content in digital formats too. You can borrow e-books, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers digitally, for free, through your library.

Rows of library books on shelves.
Books and more

Reading for wellbeing at the library

Read story
Books and more

Stories, rhymes and stickers for children at the library

Read story

Why should you read?

Lots of libraries run activities, events and groups that help people of all ages get into reading. They do this because reading is one of the best things you can do to improve your wellbeing.

For example, reading can:

  • enhance vocabulary and language skills
  • improve mental and physical wellbeing
  • lessen the risk of dementia
  • build empathy
  • broaden horizons
  • help focus and concentration
  • improve educational prospects
  • offer comfort during difficult times.
An image of a Neil Gaiman quote on the wall of a library: 'Libraries really are the gates to the future'.

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