Using the library

Each of our libraries has an after hours returns chute.

The returns chute at Wollongong Library is open every day of the year.

Returns chutes at our other libraries are open year-round except for public holidays.

Remember, you can return your items to any library location.

You must not be under the influence of, use, or sell alcohol or any illegal substances while in the library.

In some cases, alcohol may be served and consumed at authorised events for adults in the library.

We welcome Accredited Assistance Animals accompanying visitors with disability to our libraries. You may be asked to show proof that the animal is registered for this purpose.

Animals that are involved in official library programs are also allowed.

All other animals are not allowed in libraries.

Acceptable levels of dress and personal hygiene are required. You may be asked to leave the library if your dress or condition is likely to offend other customers.

Footwear must be worn at all times while you're in the library.

You must treat staff and other library users with respect and courtesy. This includes avoiding activities that make other people uncomfortable, or makes their library experience less positive.

The following behaviours will not be accepted. These types of behaviour may lead to you being asked to leave, or even banned from the library:

• Unsociable behaviour, including harassing or threatening customers or staff
• Physical or verbal aggression, abuse or intimidation
• Behaviour that disturbs people and creates an unpleasant or unhealthy environment, including excessive noise or smoking
• Interfering with a library staff member performing their duty, or making unreasonable demands on staff
• Soliciting or selling goods or services
• Theft, vandalism, carrying a weapon and other criminal offences. These activities will be reported to NSW Police.

You should also keep in mind that it's unsafe to run inside the library.

Bicycles, scooters, blades and skateboards must not be used in the library.

We have bike racks outside the library. Please make sure you lock your bike in the rack securely.

You can carry your skateboard or folded scooter, but you must not ride it in the library.

Children under 8 years of age must be with a responsible adult at all times while they are in the library. Parents or guardians are responsible for the behaviour of their children in the library.

Parents or guardians are responsible for the suitability of information their children access through the library.

You will have to pay for any damage you cause to library property. This includes items from the collection, as well as library equipment, furniture and facilities.

You need written permission from the Library Manager before taking any professional photos or filming in the library.

Talk to our staff or contact your preferred library location to discuss filming or photography.

Cold snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks that are in covered cups or bottles are allowed in the library. Hot food cannot be eaten when using library computers.

Please make sure you clean up any mess and take all your rubbish with you.

You must leave the library when asked to do so by library staff or security personnel. This includes at closing time, during emergency situations, or at any other time.

You need to be a library member to check out any items from our collection and remove them from the library.

Membership also gives you access to a great range of online resources.

It's free to join. See our Membership page for details.

You must not make an excessive amount of noise that disturbs other people in the library.

It's ok to talk, but please consider others when you're having a conversation in-person or on the phone. If practical, move away from other people while you're talking.

If you're using a phone, personal device or computer, use headphones or lower the volume so it doesn't disturb others.

Don't have headphones? We have headphones available for purchase at-cost at all of our libraries. See staff for details.

You are responsible for your personal property at all times while you're in the library.

Never leave personal belongings unattended. Items left unattended may be removed by library or security staff.

The library is not liable for loss or damage to personal property.

Library staff have the right to inspect equipment, folders, bags or property as customers enter or leave the library.

We're proud members of ACON's Welcome Here project, and all of our libraries are safe spaces for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

We also welcome people who are homeless, sleeping rough or in temporary accommodation to visit us and become members of our libraries.

All of our libraries are smoke-free zones. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping.

Smoking is not permitted within 4 metres of any library building entrance.