The Library

Canterbury Library was the first publicly funded library in Great Britain, through innovative interpretation of the Museums Act 1845 for provision of a museum of arts and science. It is now part of the large network of public libraries managed by Kent County Council. Learn more about the Kent Libraries service. Check the library opening times.

Resources

The library provides a wide selection of materials - books, DVDs, CDs, Talking Books, local history resources. You can browse the Kent Libraries & Archives catalogue, reserve and renew items online. There are special collections for parents and carers, as well as people suffering from particular conditions like cancer, dementia or depression.

We also offer eBooks and an increasing range of online resources such as encyclopaedias, newspapers and reference tools for use in the library or from your home computer.

We have over 20 computers available with free access to the internet and office software. These can be booked by phone or online. You can scan and print documents too.

Ask staff about services for reading groups, schools and homebound people.

Activities

Join in! Our popular Baby, Bounce and Rhyme for 0-2 year olds and Talk Time, a social group open to everyone are held weekly. For details of these, author talks and family activities, visit the ‘What's on' page.

Do you have a little time to spare? We offer enjoyable and worthwhile volunteering opportunities, such as computer buddies and event support. There are activities for everyone, whatever your age, experience or the amount of time you are able to give.

Learning Offer

Learn more about how the library supports learning and literacy.

School groups are welcome to visit the library guided by teaching staff. It is always a good idea to give the library advance notice in case of prior bookings. Contact the library on 0300 333 6022. A teacher’s toolkit is available to download.

Schools can also buy a range of services to support the improvement of reading and literacy and enhance learning across the whole curriculum. For details visit the library and archives pages on the EduKent website.

Library cards for visiting school groups can be produced in advance. Teachers can download and distribute the joining form to pupils, in order to obtain parental permission, and then pass on to the library a week prior to the visit. Joining Form.

Registration Services

Come to us to register a birth or death. Registration is by appointment only. Call 0300 333 5430 or book online. Find out more about services relating to births, deaths and ceremonies.