We are taking several measures to provide a safe and effective library service at this time. We are continuously monitoring changes in national advice, so please do return to this page for updates on Library Services. The University is also providing updates on advice.
We're offering some in-person services, with restrictions for safety. It is mandatory to wear a face covering in libraries, please bring one when you visit.
You can browse shelves and borrow books using self-service kiosks, for up to 20 minutes at a time.
Meeting rooms aren't available, but you can book a study desk. To pre-book a computer, study desk or set up wi-fi, please call the customer contact centre on 01905 822722. Further details and times are listed on the Worcestershire County Council web page.
Food isn't allowed, but you can bring a drink with you as long as it's covered. The cafe is closed following a small fire in the cafe on the evening of 3 September.
Social distancing and hygiene measures are in place for everyone’s safety. Please use the provided hand sanitizer as you enter The Hive. We're managing the number of customers in the building, and computers and desks will be cleaned thoroughly after each use.
Library staff will also be on hand to answer queries and provide information. The Hive will not be available for group events and activities, as a meeting place or a place to spend time reading or relaxing.
You can find information on the re-opening and opening times of other county libraries, and the latest changes to services from Worcestershire County Council.
Please return your loans through the external hatch next to the entrance. Please note there will be a delay of 3-4 days between the date a book is returned and when it is removed from your account.
All loans issued before 10 August are extended until 30 September 2020. Loans issued after this date will be for the usual loan period.
You can pay in person at The Hive or at any reopened Worcestershire branch library. For opening hours please see the Worcestershire County Council library webpages.
If you are unable to visit a Worcestershire public library in person, you can also pay fines over the phone. Please call the customer contact centre on 01905 765765.
Our reservation service is working as normal for libraries open in Worcestershire.
Email askalibrarian with your questions, or search our FAQs.
We have stopped providing print books and other physical items for inter-library requests. However, we will supply chapters from ebooks instead where possible, and can still provide online articles. We will reintroduce a full service as soon as the British Library reopens.
All our online resources remain available via Library Search and Resource Lists as usual.
A number of publishers are offering free resources during the coronavirus outbreak. We would like to assure you that we are already well-resourced with plenty of ebooks, journals and databases. We are also buying more ebook copies of print books where possible.
However, we are investigating temporary access to further resources where there is a clear need, such as film streaming and textbooks. Please bear with us, as reviewing and setting up trials takes time.
If you have received an offer from a publisher that you’d like us to review, or have a particular need for resources, please email the eresources team. If you would like access to an ebook, please suggest a book using our form.