Libraries FAQ

Please check our FAQ’s below for information and updates on our services.

What services do you currently provide?

Due to current lockdown restrictions many of our branches are closed. However, Click & Collect and a Home Delivery service are available from the following libraries: Dunbar, Haddington, Musselburgh and North Berwick.

Revised opening hours are in operation and an appointment system will be in place.

To order items via Click and Collect or to discuss Home Delivery please click here or telephone the library on 01620 827827 (ask for relevant branch)

We have lots of eResources available as well as an online Children’s programme. We are active on social media so follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates and news.

I'm not library member but would like to access eResources. Can I do this?

Yes. You can join as an online member and use your online membership number to register with our eResources. Click here to join. Once the libraries re-open you can upgrade to a full membership which would give you access to physical resources within the library.

How do I access the Library’s eResouces?

We have an extensive range of resources such as

eAudiobooks and eBooks,

eNewspapers and eMagazines,

Theory Test Pro,

Transparent Language learning.

Please click the links above for more information on accessing each resource.

Ancestry Library Edition has also been made available to access at home until the end of March.

I am having problems logging in to the eResources?

Check out our web page for further help or information. If you are still having difficulties accessing our eResources please email libraries@eastlothian.gov.uk with your name, library membership number, contact email address and a description of the issue. A member of our team will then contact you to help.

Why is there a queue for the eBook / eAudiobook I want?

Due to licensing restrictions many titles are limited to one user per copy. We do buy titles on a regular basis to provide borrowers with a range of choice.

We’ve also bought some simultaneous access titles as part of our Digital Blether on Borrowbox which means there are no waiting times on these titles.

Is there anything available for children while we are in lockdown?

We have lots of children’s activities on the dedicated Children’s and Young Persons Facebook page. This includes a weekly timetable of events, including Bookbug, bedtime stories with some of your library favourites, lego build ideas, craft ideas and book recommendations.

Of course we have plenty of eBooks and eAudio books for children available.

If I am shielding how can I get library books?

We are operating a home delivery service. Contact your local library - Dunbar, Haddington, Musselburgh or North Berwick - and they will arrange books to be delivered to you. To discuss this further, phone 01620 827 827 (then ask for your library)

My books are due for return soon, how can I return them?

If you currently have outstanding loans these can be returned to libraries that are open for Click and Collect.

An appointment is not necessary to return items just place them in the return box which will be situated near the front entrance.

If you are unable to return your items please keep hold of them until your local library re-opens. All overdue fines are currently suspended.

Why can’t I reserve the book I want?

Some reservations have been placed on hold whilst our libraries are closed. Our teams will be happy to help you choose another. You can use the click and collect form or telephone an open branch on 01620 827827 and ask for the relevant branch.

I have received an email to say my book is ready – can I collect it?

We will contact customers who have reservations awaiting collection at each operational Click and Collect library to offer them a collection day and time.

When are Book Groups re-starting?

Private Book Groups can now arrange collection of new book group boxes. There are new procedures in place for collecting and returning book group boxes. Please read the guidelines by clicking the link below:

Book Group Collection Procedures for borrowers

Please note that library based book groups are still currently suspended until further notice.

How do I get hearing aid batteries?

Hearing aid batteries are now available from Haddington Library, John Muir House, Brunton Hall, Musselburgh Library, Dunbar Library and North Berwick Library. No appointment is necessary but restricted access and opening times will be in operation. You may wish to phone ahead on 01620 827827 and ask for the relevant library.

Alternatively you can telephone Audiology on 0131 536 1637 between 10am-1pm & 2pm-4pm or email on audiology@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk and they will post batteries to you. Alternatively you can email libraries@eastlothian.gov.uk.

If you need Domes or tubes please contact the Audiology department directly.

What about registration appointments?

Please click here for information on registration.

Are the Customer Service desks open?

Brunton Hall is open 10am – 12pm and 1pm – 4pm and John Muir House 9am – 1 pm.

Only those customers who have been given appointments by staff, or are in need of urgent assistance, should attend during these hours. If attending these facilities for an appointment, you must wear face a covering.

Wherever possible, customers should look on the Council website, request services online or phone the appropriate number.

How do I apply for a blue badge?

If you can, the quickest method to apply for a blue badge is via the online form. Click here.

You can ask a family member, friend, support group or carer to assist you or apply on your behalf.

If you are unable to apply online, an application form can be collected from John Muir House, Brunton Hall or one of our libraries that is currently open (see above). Completed application forms and supporting documentation can be returned to your local library which staff will forward to the Blue Badge Team for processing.

Can I apply for a bus pass?

Bus Pass applications can now be applied for online. If you go to the National Entitlement Card Webpage you will find all the information you need.

Alternatively please phone or email your local library where staff will assist you.

If we have not answered your query please contact us on email libraries@eastlothian.gov.uk or contact the Switchboard on 01620 827827. Please note that individual library telephone numbers and emails are currently offline.

Friday 12 March 2021

Frequently Asked Questions