Library services available during COVID-19
Libraries are now open in most locations
Most public libraries in the city have now reopened.
Eight community libraries are already open with Libraries Extra. Find out how we’ll reintroduce staffed services in most of the city’s community libraries over the next few weeks.
Portslade, Saltdean, Whitehawk and Woodingdean libraries will return to staffed opening on some days in the week beginning 14 September.
Coldean, Hangleton, Moulsecoomb, Rottingdean and Westdene following in the week of 28 September.
The exceptions are the libraries in Mile Oak and Hollingbury Old Boat Corner where libraries are in shared buildings, and Patcham Library, which remains closed while we carry out refurbishment work.
Westdene Library is closed while the entrance ramp is being repaired. We are not able to offer access to the toy library however items can be returned.
Keeping Library Users Safe
As the number of people who can be safely accommodated in the libraries is limited, we’ve introduced queueing and one-way systems. We’re asking borrowers to keep their general visits to a maximum of 15 minutes.
Use of the library computers will also be limited to an hour, or two hours for concessions. We ask that you to clean them before and after use with wipes provided.
You must wear a face covering inside the buildings, unless you are exempt. Exemptions include children under 11, people with disabilities or breathing difficulties, and those with people who rely on lip reading.
What's available in libraries
Visitors to Brighton & Hove libraries can borrow books using self-service facilities and use the library computers. We’re sorry that study facilities will not be available until October. Bookstart packs are available from all locations on staffed days.
In Jubilee and Hove Libraries, when you return your books, please use the boxes that you see on your way into the library. Please have them ready to drop-off before you go in. Books are quarantined for 4 days before being checked back in, so will stay on your account for a short time after you’ve dropped them off.
In community libraries, please use the self-service kiosks when you return your books and put them in the boxes provided. Books are quarantined for 4 days before being shelved, and we ask other library members not to take any stock from the boxes to reduce risk of infection.
Mini Booklover Store Reopening on Thursday 17 September
We are pleased to announce the return of The Booklover Store to the Ground Floor of Jubilee Library. We will have a range of greetings cards, stationery, games, puzzles and gifts for sale.
New ‘Order and Collect’ service
As part of the reopening, we have introduced a temporary new service where you can order a selection of books on your chosen subjects or genres, which staff will prepare for you.
You can then collect your books from Jubilee and Hove libraries at a time that suits you within two weeks of us letting you know your books are ready.
The ordering option is available on our library webpages.
You can also order books by sending an email to libraries@brighton-hove.gov.uk or phone 01273 290 800.
Join the library or upgrade to Libraries Extra – it’s free!
All library members can use the open libraries. New members can join at any library on staffed days or join the library using our online form.
If you’d like to start using the Libraries Extra service in the community libraries, you can upgrade your library card remotely.
This is a free upgrade and you can do it by sending an email to libraries@brighton-hove.gov.uk or phon 01273 290 800.
You need to be 16 years old or over to have a Libraries Extra card. All new adult members will automatically be sent a Libraries Extra membership card.
Children and young people under 16 years old need to be accompanied to use a library during Libraries Extra hours.
Home delivery service
If you need to stay at home due to a health condition or are caring for someone who does, our library service can help through the Home Delivery Service.
If you’re interested in having books delivered to your door, please phone us on 01273 296 992 and leave a message. Don't forget to say that you are interested in the Home Delivery Service.
A member of staff will phone you back to discuss how we can help you.