Borrowing items
Borrowing and renewing
With a State Library membership you can borrow a variety of items such as books, music scores and play scripts. Up to 8 items can be borrowed at a time.
Books can be borrowed for up to three weeks. Orchestral and play sets can be borrowed for up to three months.
Items will automatically be renewed up to two times on their return date if they have not been requested by another client. One more renewal after this can be organised by contacting us at library@slwa.wa.gov.au or by calling us on 08 9427 3111.
If your items cannot be renewed, we appreciate your prompt return of them by the due date.
Check out and return
Returns are made to the Welcome Desk on the Ground Floor. Library staff will assist with the checkout and return process.
Frequently asked questions
I’m a member of my local library. Should I join the State Library too?
Yes. You need a separate membership card for each library.
Can I return books borrowed from the State Library to my local library?
No. Books must be returned to the library borrowed from.
Why are some local library books labelled with the State Library barcode?
The State Library provides stock to public libraries in WA. These are labelled with the State Library barcode.
How do I borrow an eBook or eAudioBook?
Search the catatogue for the title you want. Click the link on the catalogue record and be ready to enter the barcode from your Library membership card. You can also use BorrowBox or Overdrive to access eBooks and eAudioBooks. The BorrowBox app will ask you for a pin or password – yours will be your last name with the first letter capitalised.
How do I return an eBook when I’ve finished reading it?
When your borrowing period ends, eBooks are automatically returned and made available to other readers.
In line with the Terms and Conditions of Membership, items borrowed from the Library are to be returned on or before the due date.
If an item is lost or damaged, members will be reminded of their agreement to adhere to the Terms and Conditions of Membership and may have their borrowing privileges or membership suspended or be charged for the item.
If an item you have borrowed becomes lost or damaged, please contact us at library@slwa.wa.gov.au or call us on 08 9427 3111.
Join the State Library! Free membership is available for all WA residents. Access online resources and apps from home and borrow collection items.
