Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions
Library Memberships
There is no cost to become a library member.
Any individual who resides in Victoria may apply to become a member by visiting one of our five libraries or applying online.
If you reside interstate a temporary membership option is available by visiting one of our library branches.
Report the lost card by contacting or visiting one of our branches as soon as possible. We will stop the lost card from being used and issue you a new one- fees may apply.
Contact one of our branches as soon as possible so that we can update your account.
If you require your address to be updated, you will need to provide a proof of new address next time you visit the library.
Borrowing and Reserving
Members can borrow up to 80 items at any one time.
See Benefits of a Membership see what items you can borrow and for how long.
Items will be automatically renewed up to three times, unless they have been reserved by another member.
You can also manually renew an item at any time by logging into your online account, or by phoning or visiting one of our libraries.
Hot reads can only be borrowed for 7 days and can’t be renewed.
If an item is more than 74 days overdue, the item will be deemed ‘lost’. You will not be able to borrow any items until these have been returned or a replacement fee has been paid.
You can find items by searching the catalogue.
All Brimbank Libraries items can be returned to any Brimbank Libraries branch. You can return your items at any time through the library or our after-hour chutes.
Reservations are free of charge.
You can reserve items:
- through the online catalogue
- at the library desk
- by contacting any of our library branches by phone
You will be notified by email, SMS or phone – depending on your preference when signing up for your library membership.
If the item that you would like to borrow is not in our collection, you can make your recommendations online by signing into your account or at the library desk.
We also have our Inter Library Loans service. Fees apply.
Programs and Events
Many special events require registration, especially those with limited spaces. However, our regular programs generally do not.
Check the event listing for specific details.
Yes, our library programs and events are free of charge.
Our programs and events are open to everyone, but we encourage you to sign up for a library membership if you’re not already a member.
Membership is free, and you can join online or in person. Learn more at Join up now
You can register online via Eventbrite, by phone, or in person at your local library branch.
We recommend downloading the Eventbrite App. Browse, book, sync with your calendar, and cancel events with just one click.
Download the Eventbrite App from the App Store or Google Play.
Children under the age of 15 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the program or event.
If an event is fully booked, feel free to join the waitlist and you may be contacted if a spot becomes available.
Many programs and events also run repeat sessions, so there may be another chance to attend.
Our events and programs (especially during school holidays) often book out. If you’re no longer able to attend, please let us know as early as possible so we can offer your spot to someone on the waitlist.
To easily manage your bookings, we recommend downloading the Eventbrite App. Browse, book, sync with your calendar, and cancel events with just one click.
- Download the Eventbrite App from the App Store or Google Play
- Alternatively, call your local branch or let us know via our online contact form to cancel
Library Spaces and Services
Yes! Short videos are available on each library branch page via Locations & Hours, but can also be watched from our playlists below, including versions translated in Vietnamese and Arabic:
Some spaces are bookable, others are available on the first come first service basis.
To view and reserve a bookable space visit Study & Work Spaces.
Yes, you are welcome to eat and drink in the library, except for hot food.
We ask customers to refrain from eating and drinking around technology, and that you clean after yourself.
You can find detailed accessibility information for each library branch. This includes sensory maps that highlight building access, elevators, and restrooms, to help you plan your visit.
Please visit a branch page from Locations & Hours to access these resources.
Street Libraries
Council has been approached by community members asking for Street Libraries to be installed.
Council is pleased to be in a position to install four Street Libraries as part of the Street Libraries project.
There are also opportunities for neighbourhoods to install a street library on an individual’s property.
You can find more information about Street Libraries on the website www.streetlibrary.org.au
The Street Libraries project will be reviewed over the next 12 months. Consideration will be given to additional Street Libraries should there be community demand and if appropriate sites are available .
Books for all ages are included.
The Street Library at Balmoral Park is near the children’s playground and may have a higher number of children’s books.
Brimbank Libraries will supply pre-loved books to keep the Street Library stocked of items, however we encourage community members adding books to the library also. You can simply put them on the shelves of any of the Street Libraries – where you might also find something you’d like to take and read! Any community-supplied books must contain content appropriate to the general community and its interests and needs. Any inappropriate material supplied to the Street Library will be replaced.
If there isn’t room on the shelves in the street library for any items you’d like to add, we ask that you kindly donate these to your nearest opportunity shop instead.
Complete the online form below and let us know what type of books you would like to see in the library.
We will respond to you and let you know if we are able to help. If we don’t have anything appropriate at the time we will add your request to our list, and then add items should they become available.
Don’t forget that you can also join Brimbank Libraries and find and borrow books that you would like to read. Membership is free.
Library staff, along with a Street Library volunteer will check the Street Library each week.
If you notice any problems or issues with the Street Library, please let us know by filling in the online form below.
Brimbank Council has a wide range of volunteering opportunities, including with the Libraries as a Home Library Service volunteer or working with the Street Libraries.
Do you still have a question? Contact us