FAQ
Who can join?
Membership is open to everyone and is free. Proof of current home address is required. Young people under the age of 18 also need the approval of a parent or guardian. You can join the library electronically from home by logging into our Catalogue.
How many items can I borrow?
You may borrow a maximum of 40 items from the library service.
What do I need to borrow?
Your library card is all you needed each time you borrow. If your card is lost you will need to notify the library staff immediately.
How long can I have the items for?
All Items may be borrowed for up to 3 weeks.
All items can be renewed twice if they are not on hold for someone else.
Renewals can be made from our web site in the ‘My Membership’ section, in person at the Circulation Desk or by phone during opening hours. When making a phone renewal, you will need to provide your borrower number and item details.
Is there Parking?
At Leichhardt Library two hours free parking is available at the Forum; we will stamp your parking ticket for you. At Balmain unfortunately there is only street parking
Is there an After Hours Return Chute?
An After Hours Returns Chute is available at Leichhardt Library and Balmain Library 24 hours a day; you can activate the returns chute with either your membership card or the library barcode on any item you are returning.
Are there fines for Children?
No – there are no overdue fines for children aged under 13 years who borrow children’s resources. This is a Council initiative to encourage children to read, however, children do pay the reservation fee.
What are the fines on adult’s and teenager’s cards?
These are at the rate of 10 cents per item per day up to a maximum of $6.00 per item. There is a grace period of two days; the fine commences on the third day the item is overdue i.e. 30 cents.
Can I still borrow if my items are overdue?
Yes - provided the item is not more than 60 days overdue and the money owing to the library is less than $30.
Can I have an item on the shelf put aside for me?
Yes - this is called a shelf check and if the item is available on the shelf we will HOLD the item for one week for you. You can phone or email for a shelf check. This is a FREE service.
How much does a Reservation cost?
$2.00 per item
Can I reserve items that are ON ORDER?
Yes – we will notify you as soon as the item has been received and processed.
How much does an inter library loan cost?
$2.00 plus any costs charged by the originating library we are sourcing the item from. Generally from other public libraries this is free but most other libraries charge an additional fee of $13.20 per item.
Can I have items transferred between the Leichhardt and Balmain Libraries?
Yes - this service takes one day during the week with items requested being available after 3 pm on the following day. On the weekend items are available the following Monday after 3 pm. This is FREE service.
Who can use the Internet?
Internet access and PCs are available at both libraries. Library Members may use these services to a maximum of 2 hours per day and may book a week in advance.
Do you have wireless Internet access?
Yes
Can I access my email ?
Yes
What is the cost for the Internet?
This service is FREE and popular so it is advisable to book a few days in advance.
Can I send a fax from the library?
Yes – the cost varies with the distance:
Local $0.40 per page
STD $2.00 per page
OVERSEAS $2.00 per page