Every library has a children’s section with storybooks for all ages and information books to help with homework and hobbies. In addition to books, children’s DVDs and CDs are available for loan in some libraries. Requests for items for children and young people are free and there are no fines for overdue books. There are no charges for lost and damaged books for 0-5 year olds.
Joining
Children of any age can join the library. The Library Service has simplified joining the library for children and young people, who are now able to join without permission from a parent or guardian. If you are under 17 you can join the library without showing ID and your card will be posted to your home address.
Babies
Babies and young children are never too young to enjoy books and join the library. We welcome children of all ages to our libraries and have books and videos especially for babies and toddlers. Our libraries have special children’s areas designed for very young children and with easy access for prams, buggies and wheelchairs.
Bookstart
Bookstart is a national scheme to encourage families to visit the library and share the joys of reading and looking at books with babies and toddlers. It’s never too soon to join! All libraries have collections of board and picture books suitable for babies and toddlers, and many libraries have regular storytimes and craft activities for the very young.
Rhymetimes are fun sessions held regularly in a number of Flintshire libraries. Parents, carers and under fives are warmly welcomed to the Library for stories, songs and rhymes. No booking is required.
Teenagers Welcome!
Watch out for our Teen Collections – there are books for all tastes, or take out a DVD. Libraries also have materials to help you study, and free access to computers and the Internet (don’t forget to bring your library card to log-on with).
Who Next…?
When children ask ‘Who can I read next?’ or ‘Who writes like my favourite author? ‘Who Next…? can help. Writers of children’s fiction are listed with suggestions of other authors who write in a similar way, together with key book and series titles. (Free from your own computer by typing in your library membership number from your Flintshire library card).
Parents’ Collections
Some larger libraries have Parents Collections and all branches have books which may be of help to parents. Parents’ Collections contain books and videos on child development, babycare, pregnancy, health, play and helping children with school work. These items are available for loan in the same way as all our library stock.
Playgroups
Playgroups, nurseries, parent/toddler groups and childminders can borrow collections of books to use with children in their care. Big Books can be borrowed and story sessions and library visits arranged with the staff of individual libraries.
Better with Books
Books to help children and young people deal with problems from everyday issues to special needs can be borrowed. Special situations include starting school, visiting hospital, the separation of parents, coping with confusing emotions, illnesses or learning difficulties
School Visits
Visits by school classes to any Flintshire library are very welcome and can be arranged through your local library. If you are a teacher you can arrange a class visit to your nearest library, or your local Community Librarian can visit your school. You may also want to encourage your students to visit the library in their own time to join the Summer Reading Challenge, or other reading activity.
Special Needs
Flintshire Libraries positively welcome children with Special Needs. All libraries have disabled access, audio books, tactile books, Large Print books and books of interest to parents and carers of children with Special Needs. See also our Special Requirements page.
Computers and the internet
All libraries have computers and free Internet access. Children over 11 may use computers unaccompanied providing a parent or guardian has completed a consent form. Younger children must be accompanied at all times by a responsible adult when using a computer.