Libraries for All

At Inspire we're proud to welcome each and every visitor to our libraries, learning spaces, and cultural events. From supporting breastfeeding individuals, to providing support for those suffering from dementia and more, our staff are always there to lend a helping hand.

Before you visit us, we understand you might have questions. Whether you're worried about finding a place to park or need a little extra support securing event tickets, our website and staff are here to lend a hand. 

You can find information on car parking on each library page, under the "visiting us" tab. Where possible, we've also included information on parking for Blue Badge holders and those with limited mobility. Unfortunately, we're unable to reserve parking at any of our libraries, however if you'd like help on less busy times to visit feel free to give your local library team a call and our friendly staff can try to advise you.

Are you taking part in one of our fantastic learning courses, or attending an exciting event with us? All of our events are bookable via our website, but if you'd like a hand booking your ticket we're happy to talk it through with you. You can call our Ask Inspire team on 01623 677200 who can discuss the process with you and book your ticket over the phone, even taking payment that way too. Alternatively, our library staff can book your place during any of your visits and take payment by cash, or even card at selected venues). 

Visiting somewhere for the first time can be stressful, so we hope to make you feel as welcome as possible, as quickly as possible. Before you make the journey, find your nearest library here by entering your postcode in the "by location" field. The libraries at the top of the list will be closest to you, but we advise checking their opening times to make sure you have plenty of time to browse our jam-packed shelves! To do this, select your chosen library and look on the "visiting us" tab. You'll also find the library address along the right hand side of each library's page, plus a handy interactive map so you can be confident in finding you way to us.

While you're in our libraries, our library teams are there to help you - so if you're stuck knowing your Mcs from your Macs or just need directions to the nearest loo, give our staff a shout and they'll do their best to support you. For more complex queries they may need to contact a manager or signpost you to other services, but our commitment to being reliable and friendly means you can be confident in approaching us about anything at all.

Our teams might look slightly different across our 60 libraries - some may wear matching shirts, others may be dressed in their own clothes - but you'll always be able to identify them from their name badge. You might also bump into our volunteers at various groups or at our Community Partnership Libraries. If in doubt, head to the nearest help desk and somebody will be with you as soon as possible.

If you or a loved one is vulnerable or needs extra support during your visit, don't worry. Our super staff are trained in safeguarding adults and children, data protection, conflict management and more to make everyone feel safe and secure using our spaces. Plus all of our library staff are Dementia Friends, meaning they understand the challenges that may arise for those affected, can communicate clearly and provide additional support as they spend time in our libraries.

We also host events specially designed for those with dementia, memory loss and additional support needs. Take a look here for our upcoming Dementia Friendly film screenings.

If mobility issues or otherwise mean you struggle to visit us in person, we'll come to you. You can still enjoy what your library has to offer using our online resources, home delivery service and mobile library service.

At any point during your time with us, our teams are always on hand to support you. If you have any questions prior to attending an event, experience any issues using our service, or identify any areas for improvement - tell us! 

You can contact our friendly Ask Inspire team by phone at 01623 677200 or by emailing ask@inspireculture.org.uk