Library FAQs
What are the libraries opening times?
To access the library opening times please head to our 'Find a Library' page. Some libraries have different opening times so please check the site before you travel.
How do I join the library?
You can either join the library online here or at any of our seven libraries. To join at a library, you will need to bring one form of ID, containing your name and address. For more information go to our join the library page.
What happens if I can't get to a library anymore?
If you are unable to reach one of our seven library sites, you may be able to access our Home Delivery Service. The Home Delivery Service is a book delivery service available to residents who may not otherwise be able to access our stock due to a disability or medical condition. If you wish to know more, please visit our Home Delivery Service webpage or contact us on 01744 677426 / homedeliverylibraryservice@sthelens.gov.uk
How do I book a computer at a library?
To use a computer, you must be a member of St Helens Library Service. To become a member please take one form of ID to any of our library sites and complete a membership form. Once completed you can book a computer using the booking system. It will ask which site you would like to book a computer, your library ID number, and your PIN. You will then be asked to complete the booking form, including times, which computer, and which day.
I am a teacher at a school, what do you offer at libraries?
St Helens Library Service offers a subscription for schools to be part of our Schools Library Service (SLS). Our SLS is designed to support teaching, empower learning, and inspire young readers in nursery, primary, special, secondary and academy schools. If you are interested, look at our Schools Library Service page or contact us on 01744 677425 / libraryservicesschools@sthelens.gov.uk
Is there IT / digital support available at libraries?
If you are looking for some help using the computers or accessing our digital catalogue, Borrowbox, staff at our libraries are more than willing to help.
If your enquiry is more detailed, or may take a bit more time, you may wish to get the support of our IT Mersey volunteers. The IT Mersey volunteers are at libraries for drop-in sessions as follows:
- Chester Lane Library: Fridays 2pm - 4pm
- Eccleston Library: Tuesdays 10am - 12pm
- Haydock Library: Mondays 2pm - 4pm
- Moss Bank Library: Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm
- Newton-le-Willows Library: Mondays 2pm - 4pm
- St Helens Library: Mondays 10am - 12pm
- Thatto Heath Library: Tuesdays 10am - 12pm
Do you have a digital library - eBooks, audiobooks etc?
We have a fantastic collection of eBooks, eAudiobooks, digital magazines and newspapers via the Borrowbox app. To find out more about this free offer please visit our digital library page.
Are there newspapers and magazines available at the libraries?
There are no longer physical copies of magazines and newspapers available at our libraries. However, we do now have an extensive collection of magazines and newspapers on our digital catalogue - Borrowbox. To find out more about this free offer please visit our digital library page.
How do I access the archives?
The search room is on the basement floor of the Gamble Building in St Helens town centre and continues to be accessible while renovations take place on the building. Appointments are currently available during the following times (appointments outside these hours can sometimes be made by prior arrangement).
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 10am - 2pm
To book an appointment, please contact us with a list of items you would like to access and their reference numbers; which can be obtained from the online catalogue. If you need support searching the catalogue or can't find what you're looking for then please let us know. Email: archives@sthelens.gov.uk or call 01744 671748
How can I volunteer at the library?
We have many opportunities to volunteer for St Helens Library Service and there is bound to be something that suits you. Roles include:
- Local History and Archive Volunteers - assist library staff in the preservation and organisation of the archive collections
- Summer Reading Challenge volunteers - young volunteers are needed for our annual Summer Reading Challenge
If you feel you have skills to offer St Helens Library Service as a volunteer, we would love to hear about them.
To deliver high-quality frontline services to library users, volunteers will undergo training and guidance and in return we are looking for a regular and reliable commitment from our volunteers.
We appreciate your interest in St Helens Library Service and if you would like any further information about volunteering, please email libraries@sthelens.gov.uk
How can I search the library catalogue?
Our physical catalogue is available to search on our website. You do not need to be a member to search our catalogue. If you wish to reserve a book you will require your library ID and Pin code.
What if the book I want is not there at the library?
If you find you search our website or visit one of our libraries and you cannot find the book that you want, you are able to place a purchase suggestion. This then comes through to our team who will do our best to investigate purchase options. If your book is purchased, you will be notified, and a reservation placed on your behalf.
How can I contact the library service?
If you need to get in touch with the library, you can contact the individual library you require, numbers are available here. If you have a more general enquiry, you can email libraries@sthelens.gov.uk
How do I renew my books?
You can renew your books at any library in the borough or online using your library account. You will need your library card at your library and barcode and pin to renew online.
How do I reserve a book?
Speak to or staff at any library across the borough or search online using our online catalogue. You will need your library card at your library and barcode and pin to renew online.
When is Chester Lane Library open?
Chester Lane library is open at the following times:
- Monday: 10am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday: CLOSED
- Thursday: 10am - 5pm
- Friday: 10am - 5pm
- Saturday: CLOSED
- Sunday: CLOSED
How can I contact Chester Lane Library?
You can contact Chester Lane library by calling 01744 677081 or emailing chesterlanelibrary@sthelens.gov.uk
What are the regular sessions at Chester Lane library?
The regular sessions at Chester Lane library are as follows:
- Read and Rhyme Time - Monday 11am (stay and play till 12pm) and Friday 11am
- Jigsaw club - Tuesday 11am - 4.30pm and Thursday 2.30pm - 4.30pm
- Reading Group: Last Thursday of the month 2pm- 3pm
- Crafty Quiz café - last Friday of the month 2.30pm - 3.30pm
How many computers are there at Chester Lane library, and can I book one?
Chester Lane Library have 5 computers available to book - computers can be booked here. You will require your library barcode and your pin.
Are there printing facilities / copying facilities at Chester Lane Library?
Yes. Colour and black and white printing are available at Chester Lane library as well as copying and scanning. Fees apply, so check here on our website or ask a member of staff for details.
Is there any digital support and advice at Chester Lane library?
Chester Lane library staff are more than willing to help with IT requirements, such as logging on or finding a piece of information. However, if you require a little more time and support there is an IT Mersey volunteer available, Friday 2pm - 4pm. As this is a volunteer service, please check with staff at Chester Lane Library in advance of attendance. For more information check our website on digital help.
Is there parking available at Chester Lane library?
Chester Lane Library has an extensive car park with both parent and child spaces and disabled spaces. The car park is free, and spaces are readily available.
How do I get to Chester Lane library?
The nearest bus stop to Chester Lane library is at Fallow Close (17, 32, 32A). The nearest train station is Lea Green, 10 minutes' walk from the library. Parking (including disabled and parent and child parking) available.
Is Chester Lane library accessible?
Chester Lane library has the following accessible features:
- Step-free access / ramp
- Wheelchair accessible
- Accessible toilet
- Disabled car parking spaces close to the library
Does Cheater Lane library have an accessible toilet?
Yes, Chester Lane library has an accessible toilet available.
Does Chester Lane library have wi-fi?
Yes, visitor wi-fi is available at Chester Lane library. To use the visitor wi-fi you will need to be a member of the library, have your library barcode and pin.
When is Eccleston library open?
Eccleston library is open at the following times:
- Monday: 10am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday: CLOSED
- Thursday: 10am - 5pm
- Friday: 10am - 5pm
- Saturday: CLOSED
- Sunday: CLOSED
How can I contact Eccleston Library?
You can contact Eccleston library as follows:
Telephone: 01744 677575 Email: ecclestonlibrary@sthelens.gov.uk
What are the regular sessions at Eccleston library?
The regular sessions at Eccleston library are as follows:
- Read and Rhyme Time - Tuesday and Friday 10.30am
- Reading Group: First Thursday of the month 2pm- 3pm or second Thursday of the month 1.45pm - 3pm
How many computers are there at Eccleston library, and can I book one?
Eccleston Library have five computers available to book - computers can be booked here. You will require your library barcode and your pin. There is an additional computer with a microfilm reader.
Are there printing facilities / copying facilities at Eccleston Library?
Yes. Colour and black and white printing are available at Eccleston library as well as copying and scanning. Fees apply, so check here on our website or ask a member of staff for details.
Is there any digital support and advice at Eccleston library?
Eccleston library staff are more than willing to help with IT requirements, such as logging on or finding a piece of information. However, if you require a little more time and support there is an IT Mersey volunteer available, Tuesday 10am - 12pm. As this is a volunteer service, please check with staff at Eccleston Library in advance of attendance. For more information check our website on digital help.
Is there parking available at Eccleston library?
Eccleston Library has small car park. The car park is free and can sometimes be busy.
How do I get to Eccleston library?
The nearest bus stop to Eccleston library is at Walmesley Road (37)
Parking (including disabled) available.
Is Eccleston library accessible?
Eccleston library has the following accessible features.
- Step-free access / ramp
- Wheelchair accessible
- Disabled car parking spaces
Does Eccleston library have an accessible toilet?
No, Eccleston library has no accessible toilet available.
Does Eccleston library have wi-fi?
Yes, visitor wi-fi is available at Eccleston library. To use the visitor wi-fi you will need to be a member of the library, have your library barcode and pin.
When is Haydock library open?
Haydock library is open at the following times:
- Monday: 10am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday: CLOSED
- Thursday: 10am - 5pm
- Friday: 10am - 5pm
- Saturday: CLOSED
- Sunday: CLOSED
How can I contact Haydock Library?
You can contact Haydock library as follows.
Telephone: 01744 677801 Email: Haydocklibrary@sthelens.gov.uk
What are the regular sessions at Haydock library?
The regular sessions at Haydock library are as follows.
- Read and Rhyme Time - Monday 10.30am and Thursday 2.15pm
- Reading Group: Last Thursday of the month 2pm- 4pm or Billinge group: First Monday of the month 2pm - 4pm
How many computers are there at Haydock library, and can I book one?
Haydock Library have 4 computers available to book - computers can be booked here. You will require your library barcode and your pin.
Are there printing facilities / copying facilities at Haydock Library?
Yes. Colour and black and white printing are available at Haydock library as well as copying and scanning. Fees apply, so check here on our website or ask a member of staff for details.
Is there any digital support and advice at Haydock library?
Haydock library staff are more than willing to help with IT requirements, such as logging on or finding a piece of information. However, if you require a little more time and support there is an IT Mersey volunteer available, Monday 2pm - 4pm. As this is a volunteer service, please check with staff at Haydock Library in advance of attendance. For more information check our website on digital help.
Is there parking available at Haydock library?
Haydock Library has small car park. The car park is free and can sometimes be busy.
How do I get to Haydock library?
The nearest bus stop to Haydock library is at Homestead Avenue (20, 22, 320, 602, 722)
Parking (including disabled) available.
Is Haydock library accessible?
Haydock library has the following accessible features.
- Step-free access / ramp
- Wheelchair accessible
- Accessible WC
- Assistance dogs welcome
- Disabled car parking spaces
Does Haydock library have an accessible toilet?
Yes, Haydock library has an accessible toilet available.
Does Haydock library have wi-fi?
Yes, visitor wi-fi is available at Haydock library. To use the visitor wi-fi you will need to be a member of the library, have your library barcode and pin.
When is Moss Bank library open?
Moss Bank library is open at the following times:
- Monday: 10am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday: CLOSED
- Thursday: 10am - 5pm
- Friday: 10am - 5pm
- Saturday: CLOSED
- Sunday: CLOSED
How can I contact Moss Bank Library?
You can contact Moss Bank library as follows.
Telephone: 01744 677988 Email: Moss Banklibrary@sthelens.gov.uk
What are the regular sessions at Moss Bank library?
The regular sessions at Moss Bank library are as follows.
- Read and Rhyme Time - Tuesday 11 am and Friday 10.30am
- Knit and Natter - Monday 11am till 12pm
- Reading Group: Second and Fourth Tuesday of the month 10am - 11am
How many computers are there at Moss Bank library, and can I book one?
Moss Bank Library have 6 computers available to book - computers can be booked here. You will require your library barcode and your pin.
Are there printing facilities / copying facilities at Moss Bank Library?
Yes. Colour and black and white printing are available at Moss Bank library as well as copying and scanning. Fees apply, so check here on our website or ask a member of staff for details.
Is there any digital support and advice at Moss Bank library?
Moss Bank library staff are more than willing to help with IT requirements, such as logging on or finding a piece of information. However, if you require a little more time and support there is an IT Mersey volunteer available, Tuesday 1pm - 3pm. As this is a volunteer service, please check with staff at Moss Bank Library in advance of attendance. For more information check our website on digital help.
Is there parking available at Moss Bank library?
Moss Bank Library has small car park. The car park is free.
How do I get to Moss Bank library?
The nearest bus stop to Moss Bank library is at Bowness Avenue (32, 32A 748, 760, 783)
Parking (including disabled) available.
Is Moss Bank library accessible?
Moss Bank library has the following accessible features.
- Step-free access / ramp
- Wheelchair accessible
- Accessible WC
- Assistance dogs welcome
- Disabled car parking spaces
Does Moss Bank library have an accessible toilet?
Yes, Moss Bank library has an accessible toilet available.
Does Moss Bank library have wi-fi?
Yes, visitor wi-fi is available at Moss Bank library. To use the visitor wi-fi you will need to be a member of the library, have your library barcode and pin.
When is Newton le Willows library open?
Newton le Willows library is open at the following times.
- Monday: 10am - 7pm
- Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday: 10am - 1pm
- Thursday: 10am - 5pm
- Friday: 10am - 5pm
- Saturday: 10am - 1pm
- Sunday: CLOSED
How can I contact Newton le Willows Library?
You can contact Newton le Willows library as follows.
Telephone: 01744 677885 Email: NewtonleWillowslibrary@sthelens.gov.uk
What are the regular sessions at Newton le Willows library?
The regular sessions at Newton le Willows library are as follows.
- Read and Rhyme Time : Monday at 10.30am and Friday 2.15pm
- Lego Club : First Monday of the month 3pm - 5pm
- Craft Club: Second Monday of the month 4pm - 5pm
- Board Games : Third Monday of the month 3pm - 5pm
- Reading group: Last Monday of the month 5.30pm - 6.30pm
- Knit and Natter: Monday 10am - 12pm
- Creative writing: Second Monday of the month 5pm - 7pm (Places are limited, book your place by emailing: artservice@sthelens.gov.uk )
- Local History group: First Tuesday of the month 1pm - 3pm
How many computers are there at Newton le Willows library, and can I book one?
Newton le Willows Library have 7 computers available to book - computers can be booked here. You will require your library barcode and your pin. An additional computer is available with a microfilm reader.
Are there printing facilities / copying facilities at Newton le Willows Library?
Yes. Colour and black and white printing are available at Newton le Willows library as well as copying and scanning. Fees apply, so check here on our website or ask a member of staff for details.
Is there any digital support and advice at Newton le Willows library?
Newton le Willows library staff are more than willing to help with IT requirements, such as logging on or finding a piece of information. However, if you require a little more time and support there is an IT Mersey volunteer available, Monday 2pm - 4pm. As this is a volunteer service, please check with staff at Newton le Willows Library in advance of attendance. For more information check our website on digital help.
Is there parking available at Newton le Willows library?
There is no parking available at Newton le Willows Library.
How do I get to Newton le Willows library?
The nearest bus stop to Newton le Willows library is at Back Cross Lane and Cross Lane (22A, 34A, 292, 655, 741)
The nearest train station is Earlestown, 10 minutes' walk from the library
Is Newton le Willows library accessible?
Newton le Willows library has the following accessible features.
- Step-free access / ramp
- Wheelchair accessible
- Accessible WC
- Assistance dogs welcome
Does Newton le Willows library have an accessible toilet?
Yes, Newton le Willows library has an accessible toilet available.
Does Newton le Willows library have wi-fi?
Yes, visitor wi-fi is available at Newton le Willows library. To use the visitor wi-fi you will need to be a member of the library, have your library barcode and pin.
When is St Helens library open?
St Helens library is open at the following times.
- Monday: 10am - 7pm
- Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday: 10am - 1pm
- Thursday: 10am - 5pm
- Friday: 10am - 5pm
- Saturday: 10am - 1pm
- Sunday: CLOSED
How can I contact St Helens Library?
You can contact St Helens library as follows.
Telephone: 01744 677954 Email: St Helenslibrary@sthelens.gov.uk
What are the regular sessions at St Helens library?
The regular sessions at St Helens library are as follows.
- Read and Ryme time: Wednesday and Thursday 10.15am
- Lego club: Friday 3.30pm - 4.30pm
- Chess Club: Saturday 10am - 12pm
- Knit and Natter: Monday 10.30am - 12.30pm
- Reading group: Last Tuesday of the month 2pm - 3pm
How many computers are there at St Helens library, and can I book one?
St Helens Library have 10 computers available to book - computers can be booked here. You will require your library barcode and your pin.
Are there printing facilities / copying facilities at St Helens Library?
Yes. Colour and black and white printing are available at St Helens library as well as copying and scanning. Fees apply, so check here on our website or ask a member of staff for details.
Is there any digital support and advice at St Helens library?
St Helens library staff are more than willing to help with IT requirements, such as logging on or finding a piece of information. However, if you require a little more time and support there is an IT Mersey volunteer available, Monday 10am - 12pm. As this is a volunteer service, please check with staff at St Helens Library in advance of attendance. For more information check our website on digital help.
Is there parking available at St Helens library?
There is a car park available at St Helens library, charges apply:
- 10 minutes FREE
- 1 hour £1.00
- 2 hours £1.50
- Up to 4 hours £3.00
How do I get to St Helens library?
The nearest bus stop to St Helens library is at Chalon Way East (12, 17, 32, 32A, 35)
The nearest train station is St Helens Central, 6 minutes' walk from the library
Is St Helens library accessible?
St Helens library has the following accessible features.
- Step-free access / ramp
- Wheelchair accessible
- Accessible WC
- Lift
- Assistance dogs welcome
- Disabled parking close to entrance
Does St Helens library have an accessible toilet?
Yes, St Helens library has an accessible toilet available.
Does St Helens library have wi-fi?
Yes, visitor wi-fi is available at St Helens library. To use the visitor wi-fi you will need to be a member of the library, have your library barcode and pin.
When is Thatto Heath library open?
Thatto Heath library is open at the following times.
- Monday: 10am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday: CLOSED
- Thursday: 10am - 5pm
- Friday: 10am - 5pm
- Saturday: CLOSED
- Sunday: CLOSED
How can I contact Thatto Heath Library?
You can contact Thatto Heath library as follows.
Telephone: 01744 677842 Email: ThattoHeathlibrary@sthelens.gov.uk
What are the regular sessions at Thatto Heath library?
The regular sessions at Thatto Heath library are as follows:
- Read and Rhyme time: Tuesday 2.15pm and Friday 11am
- Reading group: First Friday of the month 2pm - 3pm
- Creative Writing group: Tuesday (monthly) 1.30pm - 3.30pm (Places are limited. To find our the next data and book your place email: artsservice@sthelens.gov.uk)
- Knit and Natter: Monday 2.30pm - 4.30pm and Friday 2pm - 3.30pm
How many computers are there at Thatto Heath library, and can I book one?
Thatto Heath Library have 6 computers available to book - computers can be booked here. You will require your library barcode and your pin.
Are there printing facilities / copying facilities at Thatto Heath Library?
Yes. Colour and black and white printing are available at Thatto Heath library as well as copying and scanning. Fees apply, so check here on our website or ask a member of staff for details.
Is there any digital support and advice at Thatto Heath library?
Thatto Heath library staff are more than willing to help with IT requirements, such as logging on or finding a piece of information. However, if you require a little more time and support there is an IT Mersey volunteer available, Tuesday 10am - 12pm. As this is a volunteer service, please check with staff at Thatto Heath Library in advance of attendance. For more information check our website on digital help.
Is there parking available at Thatto Heath library?
There is a free car park available at Thatto Heath library, spaces are limited.
How do I get to Thatto Heath library?
The nearest bus stop to the library is at Thatto Heath Road (10AQ, 33, 289, 708)
The nearest train station is Thatto Heath, 1 minutes' walk from the library
Is Thatto Heath library accessible?
Thatto Heath library has the following accessible features:
- Step-free access / ramp
- Wheelchair accessible
- Assistance dogs welcome
- Disabled parking close to entrance
Does Thatto Heath library have an accessible toilet?
No, Thatto Heath library has no accessible toilet available.
Does Thatto Heath library have wi-fi?
Yes, visitor wi-fi is available at Thatto Heath library. To use the visitor wi-fi you will need to be a member of the library, have your library barcode and pin.