A computerised system controls issues, returns, reservations, overdue notices, etc. The individual s Library PIN is printed on the back of his or her smart-card, which is presented at the counter. Two of the Library computer terminals are reserved for borrower enquiries, which may be made by searching for author, title or keyword. Full bibliographical details are given on the computer screen, together with whether the item is currently available or out on loan. Books, audio cassettes and CDs may be borrowed for three weeks, or longer if a holiday intervenes.
Renewals are possible if no other borrower is waiting for the item.
Videos are normally loaned for two nights at a charge of 50p, though if used for teaching or studying no charge is made and an extended loan can be agreed. The Library takes two daily newspapers, and many weekly and monthly magazines and journals covering a variety of interests and school subjects. Current issues are available only for reading in the Library, but back issues may be borrowed in the same way as books. Two journals, The Scientific American and The Geographical Magazine, are indexed by staff on the Library database so that articles going back several years may be searched. Fines of 2p per item per day are levied in an effort to keep material in circulation.