Welcome to Leeds Libraries

We are working towards becoming a Library of Sanctuary and here is our pledge: 

As a public library service, the principle of being a welcome and safe space for all underpins everything we do. We are developing partnerships with organisations supporting those seeking sanctuary and will use these partnerships to provide empowering opportunities for sanctuary-seekers. Through our Refugee Week programme and beyond, we are working reflectively and in dialogue with organisations and community groups to learn how to become more accessible, to share our offer more widely, and to explore ways to embed the contribution of sanctuary seekers into our offer.

A lady handing books over at a library counter to a smiling staff member

We have 37 libraries and community hubs, with helpful, friendly staff who can assist you with any questions. You'll find information about the local area, groups and networks, and you can also use our computers and Wi-Fi for free. Printing and photocopying are available for a small charge. You are welcome to visit any of our buildings to study, socialise or just relax with no need to join, borrow books or buy anything.  

It's free to join the library and you can join if you live, work or study in Leeds. You can join in person at your local library or online. You don't need to bring proof of identification. We no longer charge fines for the late return of books, although do please bring them back! 

Here's what you get as a library member: 

  • Borrow up to 20 books at a time  

  • Renew or reserve a book online 

  • Book a computer with internet access

Events and activities

We run a wide range of regular events for children and adults, and many of these are free. Find out more here. 

Story and Rhyme for under fives and their grown ups is a great opportunity to meet others and join the library. At these fun weekly free sessions, we tell stories, rhymes and there's time to play in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Find full details and locations here.

More information and support - all free for library members

ESOL

Collection of books aimed at English for Speakers of Other Languages

Read Easy and Quick Reads

Collections of short, accessible and easy to read stories for adults. You will find collections of Read Easy books at Armley, Central Library, Compton Centre, Dewsbury Road and Seacroft Community Hubs and Libraries. 

Life in the UK

Helpful information for people who are new to the UK

Road to IELTS

A preparation course for the IELTS exam, an international standardised test of English language proficiency for non-native English speakers.

Theory Test Pro

An online simulation of the UK's driving theory tests, with all the official questions.

BorrowBox 

Download and read eBooks and eAudiobooks. 

Features:

  • Quick Reads books, which are ideal for adults learning English
  • You can change the font, text size and alignment to make reading easier. You can also choose different background colours.
  • eAudiobooks help with listening skills, vocabulary and pronunciation. Plus you can slow the audio down.
  • Once you have downloaded a book, you can read or listen without in an internet connection, meaning you can learn on the go.
  • You can search for materials in other languages

Libby 

Download and read eMagazines, comics and newspapers. 

Features:

  • You can zoom into pictures, maps and other images.
  • You can adjust text size and lighting settings for magazine articles.
  • Libby uses the language your device or web browser is set to.

Newspapers are provided by Pressreader, where you can find publications from over 120 countries, in 60 different languages 

Newsbank 

Read newspapers and news stories from all over the world with this large, searchable collection. Search by topic, date, map location and more.

Digital support 

We can help you to use your tablet, smartphone or computer. We run regular free digital drop-ins at various libraries and hubs. There's no need to book, just turn up. We also have lots of useful guides and videos to show you how to use different websites and apps.

Find more information about further digital support here.

Further help

The New to Leeds website helps people who are new to Leeds. It helps you find your way around and shows you how to get support.