THE world of books is opening up for readers in Dorset.
From next month, Dorset library users will be have access to over 2.5 million books, talking books and DVDs.
On June 7, Dorset County Council will join the LibrariesWest consortium which already consists of public library services in Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
Customers will be able to access libraries, ‘coast to coast’ from the Bristol Channel to the south coast.
LibrariesWest is introducing a new, shared library management computer system. This new system will be used to support the running of the library service including managing loans and stock, and providing the catalogue.
Working together will also provide value for money.
Customers will benefit from being able to:
• Use over 150 libraries across LibrariesWest
• Keep and use their current library card
• Borrow, renew, return and reserve items at any LibrariesWest library, regardless of where they were borrowed from
• Access a wider range of stock through the shared catalogue, offering 2.5 million items
• Use the LibrariesWest website (www.librarieswest.org.uk) and App to search the catalogue, reserve and renew items 24/7
As a result of the change, some library services will be restricted or unavailable between May and July.
For full details see the notice in your local library, ask a member of library staff or visit www.librarieswest.org.uk
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