FAQs
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.
What can I borrow from the library?
Once you are a member you can borrow books, talking-books, DVDs, and CDs from all Torfaen Libraries and return them to any branch. There are four static libraries and two mobile libraries in Torfaen. You may borrow up to 20 books at a time. You can also borrow up to 5 DVDs and 5 CDs.
How much does it cost?
Books are free to loan, there is a hire charge for audio/visual items. Concessionary rates are available to certain groups. A full list of library charges| is available here.
How long can I keep items?
The standard item loan/hire periods are as follows:
|
Item
|
Item Type
|
Loan Period
|
Loan Type
|
|
Books
|
Book
|
21 days
|
Loan
|
|
Talking Books
|
Audio-Visual
|
21 days
|
Hire
|
|
CDs
|
Audio-Visual
|
7 days
|
Hire
|
|
DVDs & Videos
|
Audio-Visual
|
7 days
|
Hire
|
|
CD-ROMs
|
Audio-Visual
|
7 days
|
Hire
|
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 the 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. A full list of library charges| is available here.
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!
We offer a wide range of materials for loan including; books, talking books, DVDs and CDs.
Photocopying and faxing services are available.
Cwmbran Library offers a Self Issue terminal to allow customers to queue-jump when issuing and returning books.
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. Children are welcome to use our computer facilities. They can surf the net and use our Playstations provided they have consent from a parent or carer.
Torfaen Libraries also offer free Wi-Fi facilities.
There are many activities and events held in Torfaen Libraries including:
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Storytimes for the under 5’s
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Holiday Activities
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Homework Clubs in Cwmbran and Blaenavon Libraries
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Exhibitions and Displays both of our own and from outside groups
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Writing Groups
-
Welsh Speaking Groups
-
Reading Buddies for Children
-
Reading Groups
Contact the Library for details of current events.
If you would like further information on any other aspect of our services, please ask a member of staff or contact:
Abersychan Library on 01495 772261 or email abersychan.library@torfaen.gov.uk|
Blaenavon Library on 01495 791637 or email blaenavon.library@torfaen.gov.uk|
Cwmbran Library on 01633 647676 or email cwmbran.library@torfaen.gov.uk|
Pontypool Library on 01495 762820 or email pontypool.library@torfaen.gov.uk|