Using your library – information for children

Joining the library and what you can borrow

Children can join the library at any age. Membership is free and can be arranged on the spot.

Library cards

Children get their own library card which can be used at any East Sussex library. There are special cards depending on your age:

• 0 to 4-year-olds – Elmer the Elephant library card
• 5 to 11-year-olds – Dragon library card
• 12 years and over – white library card

Young people who are already members don’t have to miss out – just visit your local library to swap your existing library card at any time.

Full membership

Children under 16 need a parent or guardian to provide proof of address – such as a utility bill – and to sign their library card.

You can borrow all the items listed below:

• 20 books for 3 weeks
• 6 DVDs for 1 week
• 6 videos for 1 week
• 6 talking books for 3 weeks

All books and children's stories on CD and tape are free to borrow. There is a small charge for DVDs – see our fees and charges.

You can use library computers if a parental consent form has been signed.

Standard membership

Children aged 8–15 who visit the library on their own can join as a standard member. A letter will be sent to their parent or guardian to say they've joined the library. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult member when they join.

Child standard members can borrow four books. They can't use library computers.

Can children use computers in the library?

Yes, as long as you are a full member. We have computers in the children’s areas of libraries for children.

• Children aged 8–15 can use the computers unsupervised but parents and guardians are responsible for their activities while using the Internet. A parental consent form must be completed.
• Children under 8 years old must be supervised at all times by parent or guardian.

Please note that content is filtered for children but this is not always effective in blocking unsuitable material.

Read our acceptable use policy for children on library computers.

Foster carers

To apply for a special library card for all 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 talking books, DVDs and videos.