Our libraries have books, audio books and DVDs for all ages available for loan. Find out what your library has available by visiting your nearest Surrey library or check our online catalogue.
The library eBooks and downloadable audiobooks are currently held in a separate collections. You can also find them listed in our online catalogue, you can use the filter options to show the format you require.
Books held by any Surrey library can be requested at your local library or by using the online catalogue. Many requested items incur a reservation charge.
How to log in to your library account
- You will need to be a library member. If you are not already a library member, you can join at your nearest Surrey library. Please bring some identification with your name and address on, such as a driving licence, bank statement or recent utility bill. You can also join the library online but will need to collect a permanent library card to request items.
- To log in to your library account you will need your membership number and PIN.
- Go to the online catalogue.
- Choose the Account icon (top right), and then choose the option to Log in.
- The next screen will allow you to enter your library borrower number and PIN.
- Click Login.
How to request a title
- You will need to be a library member. If you are not already a library member, you can join at your nearest Surrey library. Please bring some identification with your name and address on, such as a driving licence, bank statement or recent utility bill. You can also join the library online but will need to collect a permanent library card to request items.
- Start by logging in to your library account. Choose the Account icon (top right), and then choose the option to Log in.
- The next screen will allow you to enter your library borrower number and PIN.
- Find a title by searching the online catalogue.
- Click on the title you wish to request.
- From the window that displays choose the correct format of item (such as book, eBook, eAudiobook).
- Use the left and right arrow buttons to select the correct edition of the item (such as hardback, paperback, large print).
- Use the Place Reservation button. Please note: If you are not logged in to your library account, choosing the Place Reservation option prompts you to log in.
- From the window that displays, click Please select to see a list of pickup locations. Select the pickup library from the drop-down list and click Place Reservation.
- A message displays confirming the reservation fee. Click OK to continue with the reservation. A box appears that tells you whether or not the reservation was successfully placed.
- You can manage your holds from the My Account page, but you cannot place a hold from My Account.
- You can check the status of your requested item at any time by logging into your account or by contacting us.
- Please note that you may be charged for this service. See our charges for requested items or ask staff for details.
- To request an Adult item on a Junior card you must speak to a Staff member.
How long will it take for the item to arrive?
The time it takes for a requested item to be available for you to collect varies depending on where the item is located and whether there are copies immediately available, or if there is a waiting list for the item. This means that we are unable to give you an estimated time when you reserve the item. Please speak to a member of staff about your request if you would like a better idea of availability.
How many items can I borrow?
Children, young adults, adults and Open Ticket users can borrow up to 25 items at a time - which can be 25 books. There is a limit of six DVDs and 12 recorded sound items.
Children under 5 can have their own Pebble card and can borrow up to 25 board books, picture books or talking books for up to three weeks.
If you want to issue an Adult item to a Junior card please speak to a member of staff who will be able to assist.
How long can I keep the items I have borrowed?
Books may be borrowed for up to three weeks. DVDs and CD-ROMs are issued for one week. Books/Audio books may be borrowed on an Open Ticket Adult for up to six weeks (for the initial loan period only). Find out if you qualify for an Open Ticket, Adult.
Can I renew books and other items?
Yes - if another user has not requested a book, you can renew it 5 times for another three weeks each. Audio-visual items such as DVDs and Audio Books can also be kept beyond their due date for an additional charge. If you want to renew books or other items there are a number of ways to do this.
Do I have to return items to the library I borrowed them from?
No, you can return items to any Surrey library.
Stock suggestions
If an item is not on the online catalogue you can use our online stock suggestion form to tell us what you would like added to our stock. We will consider your suggestion. This service is free but we regret we are unable to respond to stock suggestions.
Surrey Libraries app
Lets you search for, reserve, borrow and renew Surrey Library titles wherever you are. You can also keep track of events and local news.
Download the Surrey Libraries app for android.
Download the Surrey Libraries app for iPhone Operating System (iOS).
Library Direct
If you are unable to get to a static library because of illness or disability we can arrange for books and audio material to be brought to you on a regular basis by a volunteer.
There is no charge for this service and we also offer a free request service.
For more information, please see our webpage: Library Direct Home Service.
Alternatively, if you have a friend, neighbour or relative who is able to take out books on your behalf, consider our Open Ticket, Adult. Our Open Ticket Adult is for anyone over 18 with a short or long term medical condition that has a substantial and negative effect on their day-to-day life, affecting their ability to use the printed book stock, choose for themselves when to visit the library or borrow and return library books.