Coronavirus update:
While libraries are operating a limited service during lockdown, you will not be able to join in the library - please join online.
Joining the library online now provides you access to our Borrowbox, RBdigital and PressReader services for e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines, e-newspapers and e-comics.
There may be an overnight delay between verifying your account on email and being able to access these services, but you no longer have to collect a card from the library to use them.
Please note: if you exchange your temporary card number for a permanent library card, Borrowbox will treat the new card number as a new account and your current loans and reservations will end. Please finish whatever you are reading or have reserved before exchanging your card.
Join the library
Joining the library service is free and easy. It gives you access to:
- Books, CDs and DVDs
- e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines and e-comics
- Online courses and resources
- Library computers and Wifi
Joining can be done online or in person in any of the Essex libraries.
Join online
Completing the registration form will give you an ‘Adult temp’ membership. You will receive a registration number by email and will be able to:
- search the library catalogue immediately
- reserve items that can be sent to any library in Essex
Take your registration number into your local library if you want to:
- collect your library card and any reserved items
- change your membership type - if child, young adult, memory, access or friends and family membership is more appropriate
- take advantage of the full range of library services.
Please note: You will need to bring some identification with your name and address on it, such as a driving licence, bank statement or recent utility bill.
Join at the library
Pop along to your local library where you will be given membership and your library card.
You will need to bring some identification with your name and address on it, such as a driving licence, bank statement or recent utility bill.
Please note: You can’t join the library over the phone.
Lost library card or reactivate account
You will need to come into a library to get a replacement card or to reactivate your account.
You must bring identification with your name and address on it such as a driving licence, bank statement or recent utility bill.
There is a charge of £1.10 for replacing lost or damaged library cards.
Update your account details
You can update your contact details or password by logging into your account on the Essex Libraries catalogue.