Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join the library?
Anyone can join the library. Membership is free if you live in the City of Sydney area. Fees apply if you live elsewhere in metropolitan Sydney and New South Wales. Visitors and Residents at Risk (homeless and refugees) are also welcome to join the library. To become a member please visit a branch with proof of your name and proof of your current residential address (eg. a bank statement). You will be able to join and borrow the same day. More information about membership...
Junior applicants
Children (under 16 years) need a parent or guardian to sign the membership application form. Membership is free for City of Sydney residents or $7 per year for Sydney metropolitan and NSW residents aged 18 or under.
What can I borrow?
Members can borrow up to 20 items for three weeks. This includes:
- Books, magazines - 20 at a time
- Talking books - 20 at a time
- CDs - 20 items at a time
- Videos - 10 at a time
- DVDs & VCDs - 10 at a time
- Language kits - 2 at a time
- Toys (Glebe only) - 2 items plus 1 puzzle at time
- Reservations - 10 maximum
- Inter-library Loans - 5 at a time.
I've lost my card, how do I get a new one?
For a replacement card please visit a branch with photo identification, the replacement fee is $6. A new card will be issued to you that day and you will be able to borrow.
Please let the library know as soon as possible if your card is lost or stolen - Telephone 02 9242 8555 or email library@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au or in person at any branch.
Can I return my books at another branch?
You can return your City of Sydney Library books and other items at any branch of the City of Sydney Library network. Check the list of branches on the back of your library card or click here...
Toy collections - please return these items to the branch they were borrowed from.
Can I use the Internet at the library?
All branches of the library offer access to the internet...
Is the library recruiting staff?
All vacant positions are advertised on the City of Sydney website.
Click here for a current listing...
Can I donate books?
The library accepts some donations...
How can I renew my loans?
To extend the due date you can ring a branch (most are open 7 days) , email renewals@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au or renew online.
Each item can be renewed twice (unless reserved).
Can I return my books after hours?
After-hours return chutes are available at Glebe, Haymarket, Newtown, Ultimo, Surry Hills and Waterloo.
Can you waive my fines?
As the library provides 24 hour renewal services (telephone, email and online) and after-hours return chutes, the waiving of fines is only granted under exceptional circumstances, such as a medical emergency, jury duty, a house fire (supporting documents required). The waiving of fines on one occasion does not guarantee the waiving of fines in the future.
Any kids activities?
As well as regular storytime sessions and a toy library the library also offers a range of programmes and activities for children throughout the year.
Any authors' talks and events?
The library has an on-going programme of author events, exhibitions, workshops and more...
Do you offer computer training?
The library offers a range of computer training courses...
Last Updated: Wednesday 2 September, 2009