Join a library
Bournemouth libraries catalogue
After joining in person at any library in Bournemouth, we’ll give you a card number and PIN. You can then sign into the online Bournemouth libraries catalogue.
The catalogue has a list of all books available at libraries in Bournemouth. You’ll also be able reserve and renew items online.
You can hold membership cards for both LibrariesWest and Bournemouth libraries.
Join online in Christchurch and Poole
As well as joining at your local library, you can join online if you’re 16 or over. Just go to the LibrariesWest website and complete a simple form. You’ll then be issued with an online membership number and PIN.
After signing up, you’ll be able to search for and reserve items straight away. There’s also a free app you can use to check and renew your loans.
If you provide an email address when you join, we’ll send you an email with your membership details.
To use any other library services, you'll need to pick up your membership card from any library in your area, bringing along proof of your identity.
Proof of address
You’ll need proof of address to pick up your card from the library.
We accept a:
- driving licence
- gas, telephone, or electricity bill from last three months
- bank statement or credit card statement from last three months
- addressed envelope received at home from last three months
- recent wage slip showing your address
- tenancy agreement.
We do not accept as proof:
- NUS cards
- bus, rail or coach passes
- business cards or a workplace ID.
If you have no fixed address, you do not need any proof of address.