Full library membership

For full library membership you need to visit your local library, fill out a membership application form, and show staff proof of ID confirming your name and address.

Library membership gives you access to e-resources as well as books, audio books, and DVDs.

Digital library membership

Online digital membership gives you access to e-resources including e-books, e-audio, e-magazines, e-newspapers, e-comics and e-reference.

You can sign up for a digital library membership here.

You can convert your digital membership to a full membership to borrow books, audio books and DVDs, by visiting your local library with proof of address.

Download the LibrariesWest app and make the most of your library membership on the go.

Full library membership - where can I use my card?

You can use your card in any of the 31 libraries in Dorset.

You can also use your membership card in any LibrariesWest libraries in:

  • Dorset
  • Bath and North East Somerset
  • Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole
  • Bristol
  • North Somerset
  • Somerset
  • South Gloucestershire

You can borrow, return and reserve items to libraries in these areas. You can also use the library computers.

You’ll get a temporary membership number and PIN. You can reserve items straight away.

Proof of address

We accept:

  • driving licence
  • gas, telephone, or electricity bill, within last 3 months
  • bank statement or credit card statement, within last 3 months
  • addressed envelope received at home, within last 3 months
  • recent wage slip showing address
  • tenancy agreement

If you’re joining as a visitor, you can also use one of these items instead of proof of address:

  • bank card
  • passport
  • photo ID
  • library card from any library

We don’t accept:

  • TOTUM cards
  • bus, rail, or coach passes
  • business cards or workplace ID

If you have no fixed address, you don’t need any proof of address.

I've lost my card

You can replace a lost membership card in any library, for £2 per card.

Making reservations

Visit the LibrariesWest website to reserve books, CDs, DVDs and more.

Alerts for reservations

Have you requested a book, film or music? We need contact details to let you know when your item has arrived.

We don't contact you by phone anymore, so we need at least one of the following:

  • email address (this is the preferred option)
  • mobile number
  • current address

Speak to a member of library staff if you need to update your contact information.

Library terms and conditions

By joining Dorset Libraries, you’re agreeing to the regulations and byelaws for Dorset Libraries.

Data protection

Find out how we use your library membership information and data.

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