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Hertfordshire County Council

Reserve and collect a book

When you use our online catalogue you can reserve books from any library, including books already on loan or soon to be released.

When you reserve, choose a library to collect it from and we'll let you know when it's ready. If we have your email we'll send you a reminder. If not, we'll send you a letter or you can check your account for when it's ready to collect.

What can I borrow?

Search the catalogue


As a member of the library you can get a full range of books, magazines, ebooks and audiobooks. Not a member? Join now.

You can:

  • borrow up to 30 items at a time
  • keep books for up to 3 weeks
  • renew your books up to 4 times


If you can't find what you're looking for in the library catalogue, send us a request and we'll try to borrow a copy from a library outside Hertfordshire or purchase a new copy. Please note that charges may apply for this service.

Not sure what to read next?

If you're looking for a new book, try searching our library catalogue.

If you need inspiration, use your library card number to log in to 'Who else writes like...?'  You'll find authors similar to your favourites.

If you love to read, try our personalised book selection service Bespoke Books.

What if I lose an item?

If you lose something you've borrowed from a library, let us know as soon as you can and we'll see if it has been handed in. Otherwise we will ask you to pay for a replacement.

Donating books

We currently have limited capacity to deal with donations so the following guidelines apply:

  • We cannot guarantee that donated items will be added to stock as they are subject to the same guidelines as all library items.
  • Donations not added to stock may be sold or disposed of sustainably. Any proceeds will be used to improve our services.
  • Books should be less than 5 years old and in nearly new condition.
  • We cannot guarantee that an item will stay at a particular library.
  • We are unable to inform donors of the outcome of donations.
  • We cannot return unwanted donations to the donor.

 We reserve the right not to accept donations.

Bespoke BooksBespoke Books

Self-published and hybrid published authors

We do not accept books that are self-published or hybrid published.

Self-publication is when an author has sole control of the content without the collaboration of an established publisher to provide editorial review. Hybrid publishing is when the publisher charges the author a fee for their publishing services and the author takes all financial risks for their book.

We rely on publishers to undertake various forms of editorial control that eliminate factual error, potential libellous content and material that may be viewed as counter to law. Editorial processes also ensure that the level of grammar and language which are used in a book is appropriate and relevant for the age level to which the book aimed at. We are not able to appraise each and every book in this detail and are not necessarily qualified to do so in matters of law.

No judgement on the quality of a hybrid published or self-published book is either implied or should be inferred by our position.

We are not able to enter into correspondence about copies sent to libraries and are unable to return any copies to authors.

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