Children's library services – information for parents, carers and early years professionals

Children can join the library at any age from 0 to 15 years old. Membership is free and can be arranged on the spot.

If you would like printed leaflets about library services for children and young people, available in English and other languages, please email our library support officer alice.cornish@eastsussex.gov.uk.

Children's library cards

Children can get an Elmer the Elephant, Stomp the Dragon or Teen library card when they join the library.

You'll need to provide proof of address and sign their card for them to be a full member. You will also need to sign a parental consent form so they can use our library computers.

See Joining the library – information for children.

Childminders and playgroups

Borrow extra books with our playgroup book boxes and under fives group tickets, or arrange special storytelling sessions for your group.

Find out how to get these library services for playgroups and childminders.

Foster carers

To apply for a special library card for the children in your care, please visit your local library with evidence of your status as a foster carer.

Overdue, lost or damaged books are exempt from fines. Normal rules for children's cards apply for audiobooks and DVDs.

Free books for the under fives – Bookstart

Babies and young children are all given free books through a national scheme. The packs include tips on helping your child to read, books for children with a visual or hearing impairment, and books in other languages – Bookstart.

Storytelling packs for disabled children – Bag Books

You can borrow storytelling packs for children with learning disabilities or visual impairment – Bag Books storytelling packs and storytimes.

Sharing books with your child

Get advice on helping your child to read and choosing books in sharing books with your child.

Homework help

Helping your child and extended schools, and lots of useful homework websites covering a wide range of subjects in homework help.

Calendar of events

Find out when stories, nursery rhymes and special events such as the summer reading challenge are happening – see what's on in libraries.

Children's Centres

Visit your local Children's Centre to find out what reading activities and services they provide – Children's Centres.

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