FAQs | Membership, Borrowing, Digital Services and More | City of Darwin

Frequently Asked Questions – City of Darwin Libraries

Welcome to our FAQ page. Here you’ll find clear answers to common questions joining, borrowing, digital services, events and more at City of Darwin Libraries.

Justice of the Peace

Do you have a Justic of the Peace (JP) at the library?: Yes, at Karama Library every Wednesday from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm. Availability may change. Check the Northern Territory Government JP Register for more JP locations.

Membership and Joining

How do I join the library?: NT residents can join online (for digital access) or in person. Bring photo ID and proof of NT address. If you’re under 16, a parent or guardian must sign you up.
Find out more about library membership.
Is library membership free?: Yes, membership is free for Northern Territory residents.

Borrowing and Returning

What can I borrow from the library?

Members can borrow books, DVDs, audiobooks, magazines and more.

How long can I borrow items for?

Loan periods vary. Check our Library Membership Guidelines for details.

How do I renew items?

Renew online, by phone or at a self-serve kiosk. Items can be renewed once unless reserved by someone else. Most items are auto-renewed unless they’re in high demand.

How do I reserve items?

Use Click and Collect.
Log in to your account.
Find the item.
Click ‘Reserve a Copy’
Choose a pickup location.
Submit your request.
You’ll get an email when it’s ready to collect

Digital and Technology Services

Can I access the internet at the library?: Yes, free internet and email access are available. Find out more about accessing the internet at the library.
Do you offer printing and scanning?: Yes, each library has a colour printer, scanner and photocopier. Faxing is not available. See printing and photocopying costs.
Can I get help with computers?: Yes, we offer one-on-one help with basic computer skills, email, internet and using our Digital Library. Find out more about the digital help we offer.
What digital resources are available?: Members can access eBooks, eAudiobooks, learning tools, databases and Kanopy – a free streaming platform.

Programs and Events

What events and programs do you offer?

We run a wide range of programs including:

Story Time (Baby Book Time, Rhyme Time, Pre-School Story Time, STEAM Story Time, All Abilities Story Time and Family Story Time)
Book Clubs
Library Lounge
Monsoon Cinema
Lego Club
Tech Zone
Author Talks
Gaming and Crafting
And so much more!

Visit our Programs and Library Events pages for more information.

Do I need to book for Story Time sessions?

No bookings are required.

Community and Sport

Are the libraries accessible?: Yes, all locations are wheelchair accessible. Staff are available to assist with technology and general enquiries.
Do you offer a home delivery service?: Yes. Our Books on Wheels service delivers to those unable to visit due to health reasons. Find out more about Books on Wheels.
Can I volunteer at the library?: Yes! Volunteers help with shelving, mending books, and delivering items through our Books on Wheels program. Volunteers need a Working with Children Clearance/Ochre Card and, for deliveries, a Criminal History Check.
Can I donate items?: Yes, we accept items published in the last 12 months in like-new condition. Unused items may be donated, recycled or disposed of. Read more about our donation guidelines.
Can I donate money?: Yes. Donations support programs that promote reading and learning. Donations over $2.00 are tax-deductible. Cheques can be made out to City of Darwin Libraries and send to GPO Box 84, Darwin NT 0801.

Opening hours and locations

What are the library opening hours?: Hours vary by location. Visit our About page for current details.

FAQs | Membership, Borrowing, Digital Services and More