Become a Member

Membership

If you live, work or regularly travel in the Newcastle region, you can become a member of the Library free of charge by visiting one of our eleven branches or you can also join online. Please note: If you are already a member there is no need to join again online.

As a member you can enjoy access to public computers, printing and scanning services, free unlimited Wi-Fi access, free access to a huge range of eBooks, Magazines and online resources in addition to borrowing books, DVDs and more!

You will be issued with a membership number to access our collections and services immediately.

To join up in one of our branches and be issued with a card immediately simply ask one of our friendly staff members to assist.

Please note: If you are under 18 years of age you need the signature and identification of a parent or guardian to join the library. Please read the additional terms and conditions on our FAQs page about library membership.

Borrow and return items

You can borrow and return items at any Newcastle Libraries branch. All of our branches offer self-service loan facilities and an after hours return chute for your convenience. Loan periods are as follows:

• Books 4 weeks
• Magazines 2 weeks
• Popular items 2 weeks (no renewals)
• Music CDs 4 weeks
• DVDs 4 weeks
• Children’s CDs 4 weeks
• Audio books 4 weeks

You can renew items over the phone, via our Newcastle Libraries App, in person or by accessing your account online through our catalogue. Up to three renewals per item is allowed, providing the item is not reserved by another member.

Locate and request items

If you are looking for a particular title, author or subject you can search our catalogue. If the item you wish to borrow is on loan or at another branch you can place a request to hold the item at your chosen location, either through your online account or by phoning or visiting your branch library. If we do not have a copy of the item you wish to borrow you can submit a purchase suggestion. Each suggestion will be considered in line with our collection development guidelines.

Avoid fees

Newcastle Libraries are now proudly fines free for late returned library items.

If an item is damaged or lost you will still be charged the replacement cost of the item plus an $10 processing fee. To replace a lost library card is free. Please notify library staff immediately if your library card is lost or stolen.

For more information view our summary of Library fees and charges.