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Find out how to join the library online.

You'll need to fill out an online form on LibrariesWest (see link below). 

You'll get a temporary membership number and PIN.

Your temporary membership number and PIN will allow you to access most of our free eBooks, audiobooks and e-magazines. Temporary membership lasts for 3 months. 

To get a library card and permanent membership, visit any Bristol library with proof of ID and address (see below).

You need to be 16 or over to join online.

Join the library online 

Proof of address

You'll need proof of address to pick up your card from the library. We accept:

  • driving licence
  • gas, telephone, or electricity bill, within last 3 months
  • bank statement or credit card statement, within last 3 months
  • addressed envelope received at home, within last 3 months
  • recent wage slip showing address
  • tenancy agreement

If you're joining as a visitor, you can also use one of these items as proof of address:

  • bank card
  • passport
  • photo ID
  • library card from any library

We don't accept:

  • NUS cards
  • bus, rail, or coach passes
  • business cards or workplace ID

If you have no fixed address, you don't need any proof of address.

Your library card

You can use your library card in all Bristol libraries and across other LibrariesWest authorities: Bath & North East Somerset, Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole, Dorset, North Somerset, Somerset, and South Gloucestershire.

You can also use your membership card online at LibrariesWest.

Library terms and conditions

By joining Bristol Libraries, you're agreeing to the following: