Frequently Asked Questions

Our frequently asked questions cover a variety of topics on our Library services.  If we cannot answer your question on this page, please contact your preferred branch or submit an Ask A Librarian enquiry.

How many items can I borrow and for how long?

  • You may borrow up to 35 items per library card, though there are limits on some materials:
    - 15 DVDs
    - 15 Premiers Reading Challenge
    - 10 magazines
    - 5 language kits

  • These items can be borrowed for a period of 3 weeks

  • In addition to the 35 items, you may also borrow a wide range of e-books, e-audiobooks and electronic magazines:

    Borrow Box  10 items for 10 days
    Overdrive/Libby   10 items for 21 days
    Indyreads  20 items for 21 days
    Hoopla  10 items per month
    Pressreader  Unlimited

How do I renew items?

Watch this useful video on how to renew your items online.     

  • Most library items can be renewed provided the items are not overdue or reserved by another library member.

  • Renewals can be done over the phone, in person or online by signing in to your library account.

  • Renewed items provide an additional 3 weeks from the current date.

  • Some collections have limited renewals such as HSC resources, toys and magazines.

How do I sign into my library account?

Sign in to your library account via the library catalogue.  You will need your library card number and PIN/password.
Once you've signed in, you can view your loans, reserves and renew items.

If you are still having trouble please contact the library and we will assist you.

Does the library have an app?

Yes! Our simple, easy-to-use app is free to download and offers everything you need right in the palm of your hand.

You can:

  • store your library card details, and access linked accounts
  • view loans, reserve and renew items
  • access our online resources and electronic collections
  • use our mobile printing service
  • find information about the library and our services

Follow the links below to install the app on your device.

Download app for iOS/Apple
Download app for Android

For more information, visit the Library app page.

Does the Library have a Justice of the Peace (JP) service?

Yes, the services of a volunteer Justice of the Peace are available at some of our library locations.
Days and times can vary, please call to confirm availability.

Can't make it to the library? Alternative JP services may be found via the JP Public Register provided by the NSW Department of Justice.

Can I eat food in the library?

At Blacktown City Libraries, we aim to offer our customers a welcome, comfortable and safe environment.

General rules

  • Hot food is not allowed in the library
  • Cold food may be eaten when seated at a table
  • Food, gum and drinks cannot be consumed, stored or handled near library equipment or materials. 

Exceptions

  • Food, gum and drinks (except bottled water) are not permitted:
    - on Level 1 of Max Webber Library
    - Lalor Park Library.

Does the library have printing, scanning and photocopying services?

Yes!   Black & white and colour photocopying and printing is available at all Blacktown City Libraries locations. Prices are listed in our Fees and charges document.

Self-service scanning is free and we recommend you bring your own USB. 

Can I donate items to the Library?

We accept donations provided the items are in good condition and current.

Donations are assessed according to collection criteria and we reserve the right to decide whether or not to retain any donated material and at which location to house it. Donated items that do not meet selection criteria are included in our book sale. 

How do I download eBooks and eAudiobooks?

All you need is a valid library card and your PIN/password!

Visit our eLibrary page to view all the platforms available for e-books, e-audiobooks and digital magazines.

All our eLibrary platforms are easy to use and offer a great range of materials to choose from.

Watch our quick and helpful videos on how to get started with our eLibrary platforms, for computers and mobile devices!

How do I search the collection? Is there a library catalogue?

To see what is available in our collection, at all our library branches, please search our online library catalogue - https://blacktown.spydus.com/

Our library catalogue will tell you what items are available, how many copies and where to find the item. 
Watch our helpful how-to video on searching the library catalogue

Once you have found the item you want, you can place a reserve on it. Watch our helpful how-to video on placing a reserve.

Can I suggest an item for the Library to purchase?

Yes, the library welcomes suggestions from the community however we cannot guarantee we can obtain the suggested items.;
More information about making suggestions for purchase can be found here.  

Can the Library display brochures/posters about my community event or service?

Yes however we recommend you speak with the Branch Librarian first.

As a provider of information to the community the library seeks to provide easy access to relevant information about local community events, programs and other items of public interest.
All material provided for display will be subject to the the library’s guidelines for accepting or rejecting such community information materials for display.

Acceptable materials include:

  • Contact and description information for non-profit organisations, government departments and educational institutions;
  • Programs and events run by non-profit organisations, government departments and educational institutions;
  • Notices to the community by government departments e.g. RMS road changes;
  • Information, programs and events conducted or sponsored by Blacktown City Council.

Unacceptable materials include:

  • Contact, description and advertising information for commercial organisations / individuals;
  • Programs and events run by commercial organisations / individuals;
  • Advertising information for individuals e.g. garage sales;
  • Information advocating specific philosophies and/or religions;
  • Information advocating specific political viewpoints;
  • Any material deemed in the opinion of the Branch Librarian to be unacceptable in a public library.