Who can join?
Your local library welcomes children of all ages (0-16), and joining couldn't be easier. Just complete a form with a parent or carer's signature and bring along proof of your address - you can start borrowing straight away. If you want to use the computers ask your parent or carer to fill in that part of the form as well. If you are at secondary school you will be able to use your Young Scot card as a library card if you wish - you will still need a parent or carer's signature.
Is it OK to bring babies and toddlers into the library?
We welcome babies and toddlers. All Highland libraries participate in the Bookstart scheme - a national scheme to bring books to babies - and many have storytimes for under 5s. To find out more go to the Highland Bookstart page.
Contact your local library or the Library Support Unit (01463 235713) for more information on library services for young children.
What will it cost?
It costs nothing to borrow books or story tapes. Use of the computers is free too, though you will be asked to pay for any printouts. There is generally a charge for borrowing videos or DVDs - please ask for details.
What can I borrow and how long can I keep it?
You can keep books or story tapes for up to 21 days , but you don't have to - you can return them as soon as you have finished with them. Children do not have to pay anything if they are late returning books or tapes to the library, but we will send you a letter to remind you to return them.
You can keep videos or DVDs for up to 14 days. You will be charged if you are late returning these.
If you haven't finished with what you have borrowed, or are unable to get to the library to return it on time just ring your local library and ask if you can keep it a bit longer. We will generally be able to give you a new date for returning it, but if someone else is waiting for it we will ask you to return it as soon as you can.
What kind of activities or events are there for children?
All libraries take part in the Summer Reading Challenge. This is a national scheme with a different theme every year - this year it's 'Team Read' - please see External Links to visit the official website. Children can take part in a range of fun activities, and join the challenge to read at least 6 books during the summer break.
Children can also take part in story times for under 5s, competitions, craft sessions, author visits - ask at your local library to find out what is happening in your area.
Teachers and group leaders can arrange to take classes and groups of children to the library, where they can listen to stories and rhymes or take part in a range of activities to introduce them to the library, promote reading and help them to find information. For more inofrmation see Class visits to libraries
What about books on parenting?
Highland Libraries' recognise that sometimes parenting can pose interesting challenges - we have books that can help you enjoy your family and get through life's important milestones.
Every Highland Library has a collection of books called the 'Family Shelf', covering the following topics:
- Pregnancy
- Childbirth
- Childcare
- Family health
- Special needs
- Teenagers
- Difficult times
We will also be adding books to share with your child on First Experiences , e.g. going to the hospital, new baby, etc.
For more information visit your local library, or search for books using our online catalogue.
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