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Borrowing books and reading
Borrowing books
You can borrow a book from any of our libraries; most can be borrowed for three weeks. Adults and teenagers can borrow up to 20 books at a time and children can borrow up to 10.
To see if we've the book you want, search our library catalogue. It shows you the book's availability and location. If it's on loan, it shows you the return date. You can reserve a book by placing a hold. We'll let you know when it's back and send it to your preferred branch.
You can also call us at 01226 773555 to place a hold.
If we don't have the book, we may be able to get it from another library, such as the British Lending Library. There's a small charge for this service.
Readers groups
We host regular readers' groups in libraries across the borough to discuss books, authors and genres.
They're independent groups open to any member of the public who already is, or would like to become, a member of the library. The groups are friendly and informal with new members always welcome.
Find your local readers group.
More information
Local history books
We've been collecting books about our local communities since the 19th century! All our libraries have a selection of local history books to borrow with more available to reserve on the online catalogue to collect.
We also have a number of titles to download as eBooks. Our Local Studies Library has the largest range of reference books, pamphlets, newspapers and journals to browse and can be found in Barnsley Town Hall.
Story and rhyme book
We've launched a multi lingual stories and rhymes book which celebrates diversity.
We worked with the Feels Like Home group on a six month project. It's aim was to welcome families into Library @ the Lightbox, from a wide range of nationalities. The Stories From Around The World book reflects the range of groups and languages that make up Barnsley today.
You can borrow the book from any of our libraries. You can also access it online.
Self help books
Reading self-help books can help people with mental health conditions. The Reading Agency has worked with health experts to create the Reading Well Books on Prescription scheme. This is a list of self-help and guidance books on conditions including anxiety, depression, phobias and eating disorders.
They've also selected some mood-boosting books as part of the scheme. This includes uplifting works of fiction, novels and poetry that's been selected by readers.
There's a scheme for people with dementia, carers and health experts, as well as for those with long term conditions. This book list covers specific conditions including diabetes, stroke and asthma, as well as common symptoms including pain and fatigue.
A Reading Well scheme for teens is also available for 13 to 18 year olds. It's collection of books provide high quality information, support and advice on a wide range of mental health issues and pressures. These include anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self esteem, bullying and exams.
Memory bags
Our memory bags are themed kits filled with items to aid memory and stimulate the senses. They're great for people with dementia, their carers, and loved ones.
If you're a library member you can borrow a memory bag for free. They include items related to:
- holidays
- gardening
- wash day
- cooking
- men's grooming
- women's grooming
Call into a branch for more details, or request a bag through your library account.
