Please read the  Byelaws (PDF, 2Mb) (opens in a new window) and the  Regulations (PDF, 292kb) (opens in a new window)

Join the library online

Complete the online registration and we will send you a membership card in the post. Anyone who lives, works or studies in the local authority of Dorset County Council can join online.

Join at a local library

You can pick up a form at your local library or print out an individual library membership form Library membership form (pdf, 424kb) (opens in a new window) or a membership form for families Library membership form for families (pdf, 428kb) (opens in a new window) and fill it out before taking it along to your local library. Remember to bring identification showing your current name and address. Identification should be one of the following:

• Bank or credit card statement 
• Building society, bank or other savings account book
• Council tax book
• Driving licence
• Electricity, gas or telephone bill
• State benefit book
• Vehicle registration document
• Service personnel may produce their service identity cardLost cards

Who can use the library?

Everyone is welcome to use the library for studying, information, or to use the internet. You will need to join the library if you want to borrow books or other items and to use e resources. You can join at any age, but if you are under sixteen you'll need an adult to sign for you.

Types of membership

It is recommended that children and young people take out child membership as there are no overdue charges for books with this membership category. We also offer membership to housebound people, child minders, nurseries or people who just want to use computers. Please ask at your local library if you are interested in other types of membership.

What can I borrow?

As a Dorset library member you will be able to up to 12 items, which may include up to 4 DVDs. You can also download eBooks from our digital library, access online information resources or use other services, such as computers, at any Dorset library. See our menu of all library services

Borrowing terms

Books can be borrowed for up to 21 days, DVDs are hired on a daily basis. It is free to borrow books but charges apply if books are brought back late, are lost or damaged.