Click & Collect and Home Library Service– FAQs

Click & Collect

What is Click & Collect?
This is a new service for people who would like to collect some books from their local library that staff have chosen and issued to them in advance. It means you don’t have to come right inside and will have your own individual time slot for collecting your items.

How will it work?
When you fill in the online formit will be directed to your local library. Staff will contact you to discuss your needs and arrange a suitable time for you to come along. 

When can I come to collect my books?
Staff will arrange a convenient time with you during normal opening hours. 

How will books be chosen for me?
On the form you will be asked for some details about the type of items you are interested in e.g. Crime, Sagas, Large Print, Audiobooks, Cookery books, History, favourite authors. Staff will use this information to choose a range of things you might like.

How many items can I have?
The form asks whether you’d like 10,15, 20 or 24. We’d like customers to take at least 10 to maximise the chances of at least some of the titles being suitable. It also means return visits won’t have to be so frequent. You can take up to 24 items. If you can’t carry 10 items you can ask local staff for fewer.

What if I already have items on loan?
You can return them to the library when you come to pick up your new titles. Staff will issue your new items in advance even if temporarily, it takes you over your limit.

How long can I keep these items?
Your normal loan limits apply. For most things this is three weeks. 

Can I renew my books?
You can renew most items in the usual way by contacting Ask Inspire or by logging onto your account on the online catalogue. The only exceptions are books that have been reserved by another customer and One Week Loan books which you need to return. DVDs will incur a further week’s loan charge if you want to keep it a bit longer.

Will I be charged for returning books late?
If you are unable to return or renew your items normal overdue charges will apply. Contact Ask Inspire if you have any specific issues.

How will I pay for Audiobook and DVD loans?
The charge will go on your record and you can pay it by phoning Ask Inspire on 01623 677 200. 

Can I choose my own items by placing reservations on stock I want?
You can place reservations on items in the usual way. At present we don’t offer this through the Click & Collect service but you can mention this to staff when you arrange to collect your books.

How do I change my books?
You should fill in another online form which will be forwarded to your library and staff will phone you. Alternatively, you can email or phone Ask Inspire: ask@inspireculture.org.uk or 01623 677 200.

Home Library Service

Can I have books delivered to my home?
If you are registered as Housebound, live in a shielding household or have health issues that mean it is unsafe for you to leave your home, we may be able to arrange a home delivery for you.

How will this service work?
It will work in the same way as Click & Collect, except that a volunteer will collect and deliver your books for you. Please fill in this form if you would like to arrange a delivery: Home Library Service (wufoo.com)

How will you find a volunteer to deliver my books?
We will try to find a volunteer in your area who will collect your items from your local library and take your returned books back for you. We are using our new Community Makers service to find volunteers.

Is it safe to have a volunteer coming to my house?
All volunteers have provided references and have undergone training. However, the volunteer is instructed not to come into your house unless you have asked for a befriending visit. The library will tell you the name of the volunteer who will phone you to let you know when they are coming.