Using our library
You will need two forms of identification, eg, a driver's licence, pension card, health care card or rate notice. If you are under 16 years of age you will need the signature and appropriate identification of a parent or guardian.
Please notify the library if you change your name, address or telephone number.
Borrowing
You can use any branch of Newcastle Region Library. Your library card is required each time you wish to borrow.
You can borrow up to 10 items per visit with a maximum of 30 items on loan at one time. Restrictions apply to CDs and DVDs.
Children's cards are only to be used for items which children want to borrow for themselves.
The library will give you a receipt that tells you what you have borrowed and when it is due to be returned.
Loan periods
| Books | 4 weeks |
| Magazines | 2 weeks |
| Popular items | 2 weeks (no renewals) |
| Music CDs and cassettes | 2 weeks |
| Videos and DVDs | 4 weeks |
| Children's CDs and cassettes | 4 weeks |
Requesting items
If an item is on loan at another branch you can place a 'request' to place it on hold. When it's available, you will be notified by your choice of mail or email. Fees apply for this service.
If the library doesn’t hold a particular title, we may consider purchasing the title. Alternatively we may borrow it from another library for you. An inter-library loan will apply.
Returning items
- Items can be returned to any branch of Newcastle Region Library
- An after-hours return chute is provided at all branches (except Lambton)
Lost library card
- Notify the library immediately if your card is lost or stolen, so that we can prevent further use of the card
- You will be responsible for all loans made prior to reporting a lost card
- A replacement fee for a lost or damaged library card applies
Overdue policy
- An overdue fee per item per day will apply to returns made after the due date
- If children's items are borrowed on an adult's card, and are returned late, an overdue fee will be charged
- No overdue fees are charged for material borrowed by children on their own cards
The library will send you a reminder notice 14 days after the due date, outlining the titles outstanding. Please contact the library if you receive a Reminder Notice for titles you may have returned. If you accumulate unpaid overdue fees of $10.00 your borrowing privileges will be suspended until the accrued amount is reduced.
Photocopying and fax facilities
Photocopying and fax facilities are available at all branches. Fees apply.
Outreach services
Outreach Services provides specialised resources, programs and services to Library patrons with special needs such as sight or hearing impairments, English as a second language, or those with restricted mobility.
Resources include:
- Large print books and magazines
- Talking books on cassette and compact disc
- Captioned videos and DVDs
- Books in languages other than English
Patrons wishing to borrow talking books require a Medical Certificate specifying that they have a sight impairment or print disability.
Housebound Deliveries
Outreach Services provides a free delivery service for housebound patrons living within the Newcastle area. Library staff deliver an individually selected range of library materials to the patron’s home on a regular basis. Conditions apply.
To register for housebound deliveries phone the Outreach Librarian on 02 4974 5348.
Institutional Loans
Outreach Services also provides bulk loans to nursing homes and other institutions on a monthly basis. To register for institutional bulk loans phone the Outreach Librarian on 02 4974 5348.
