How do I join?

Joining the Library is simple and membership is free. You need to complete a membership form and produce a current form of identification to verify your name and address. Children under 16 years must have their form signed by a parent or guardian. You will be issued with a library card which can be used in all Torfaen Libraries. Adult members may request a PIN (Personal Identification Number) which will allow access to computer and Internet services. Junior members must have consent to acquire a PIN and use these facilities. Your PIN can be used to log onto the Online Library Catalogue. If you lose your card, please let library staff know immediately as you are responsible for the items borrowed on it. A charge is made for a replacement card.  You can also Join the Library Service here.

What can I borrow from the library?

Once you are a member you can borrow books, talking books, e-books and e-audio books from all of Torfaen’s libraries and return them to any branch. You may borrow up to 20 books at a time. In addition, you can borrow 10 e-books and 10 e-audio books.

How much does it cost?

Books are free to loan, but there is a hire charge for audio books. Concessionary rates are available and customers registered with a visual impairment have the first loan period free of charge. All our e-books are also free to borrow. A full list of library charges is available here.

How long can I keep items?

If you are going on holiday you may request that your books be issued for longer than usual to avoid worry about returning them on time. Please note: Items obtained from other authorities (through the Inter-Library loan service) may carry loan periods imposed by the loaning authority.

What should I do if I want to keep items longer?

You may renew your books in any of our Libraries, by telephone, or online. You can review your account and renew items 24 hours a day via the online Library Catalogue. Items cannot be renewed if they have been reserved by another person. Items that you have paid a hire charge to borrow are not normally renewable. If you require them for longer than the hire period, an additional hire charge at the standard rate, will apply.

If I keep items longer and don't renew them, what happens?

Charges apply to overdue items. A full list of library charges is available here.

What do I do if the item I want is not immediately available?

If an item is out on loan to another person you can place a hold (request) on it so that once it is returned it will be kept for you to borrow. You will be informed when it is ready for collection. Items can be requested when you visit a library or via the Online Library Catalogue. Items can also be borrowed from other Library Authorities through the Inter-Library loan service. A charge applies to requests for books obtained from outside Wales. A full list of library charges is available here.

What else does the library have to offer me?

Torfaen Libraries have a great deal to offer – whatever your interests!

Photocopying services are available at Cwmbran and Pontypool Libraries.

All our libraries offer free use of computer facilities, including Internet access and a variety of online services, use of e-mail, and Microsoft Office applications. Scanning facilities are also available. Children are welcome to use our computer facilities and they can surf the net provided they have consent from a parent or carer.

Torfaen Libraries also offers free Wi-Fi facilities.

There are many activities and events held in Torfaen Libraries including:

• Story and Rhyme-times
• Holiday activities
• A selection of board games for adults and children at Cwmbran Library
• Homework Support including free print outs within reasonable use
• Book groups for children and teenagers
• Welsh Discussion Group
• Reading groups
• Writing groups
• Crafting groups 
• Lego Clubs
• Exhibitions and displays

Contact the Library for details of current events.