Harrogate library
Visit libraries safely.
With the Government easing of protective measures from July 19th we would like to reassure you that your safety remains our priority.
We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable so would ask that you treat others using the building with consideration as we know that many visitors wish to remain cautious.
We are managing the reintroduction of services and there will be local variations. For details of services from your local library find out more from our Library and Record Office services during Coronavirus (Covid-19) page, or check the Facebook page or website of your local community library for further information.
Information about Harrogate library including contact details and services offered.
Victoria Avenue
HG1 1EG
Email: harrogate.library@northyorks.gov.uk
Library opening hours
Please see our Library and Record Office services during Coronavirus (Covid-19) page for current opening hours.
Finding the library, parking and access
The library is located on Victoria Avenue, next to the rose garden and just off Station Parade. The bus station and railway station are both situated a few minutes walk away.
Pay and display parking is available for up to two hours on Victoria Avenue and up to three hours on Raglan Street at the rear of the library building. Disabled parking spaces are available on Victoria Avenue near the library entrance.
The library has a ramp and automatic doors at the entrance. There is lift access to all levels of the building and all public areas are accessible to wheelchairs. There are disabled toilets and a changing place. The Victoria meeting room has a hearing loop and there are portable hearing loops for use in other parts of the building. A wheelchair is also available for use by customers.
Search for, reserve and renew books and other items in the library catalogue.
Borrow e-books or digital audiobooks.
Join the library online.
View library charges and pay fines.
Access online information resources.
Read magazines, newspapers, graphic novels and comics online.
Items available from the library
You can borrow a range of books for all ages in a variety of formats, including large print and audio. Music CDs, DVDs and foreign language titles are also available for loan, as well as micro:bits. You can request any item that is not immediately available.
Information and facilities at the library
changing place
'communicate in print' software available
digital microfiche and microfilm reader and printer
free online access to Ancestry.com, Find My Past, the British Newspaper Archive and Access to Research
help and support using IT
help with blue badge applications
historical electoral registers
internet and computer access
local studies
meeting rooms available for hire
microfiche and microfilm readers and printers
parents' collection
photocopying, printing and scanning
telephone directories
wheelchair available
'Communicate in print' software
This software enables people to create symbols for communicating. It is ideal for people and families where communication is impaired, for example by learning disabilities, autism or dementia. Training in how to use the software can be booked at the library.
Hidden disability sunflower scheme
If you are using Harrogate Library with a hidden disabilities such as autism, dementia, visual or hearing impairment and anxiety pick up a sunflower lanyards as a discreet sign to staff that you may need additional help.
Activities at the library
Please contact the library for further information about the activities below.
Class visits to the library may be organised.
Friends of Harrogate library
There is a friends of Harrogate library group.
Two reading groups meet monthly, one on the last Tuesday of the month and one on the first Thursday of the month. Both meet from 6pm to 7.15pm. All are welcome and there is no charge.
There are regular groups who meet at the library including; English language conversation class, coffee and conversation, all aboard games group, crafty ladies, and code club. They are all free and all are welcome. Ask in the library for more information.
Storytimes for children under five and their families / carers are held at the library on Mondays at 2pm and Fridays at 10am during term-time. Sessions vary, but all provide a perfect opportunity to unwind and meet friends, whilst enjoying the rhymes and stories. They are free and all are welcome.
Monthly diabetes support drop-ins
Pop along to the library for free drop-in sessions for those wanting information and advice about diabetes. They are held on the first Monday of every month from 1pm to 2pm.
Deaf café
We hold a deaf café from 2pm to 4pm on the second Thursday of every month. It is a chance to meet others who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a dual sensory impairment.
You can view news and events for all the libraries in North Yorkshire here.
You can follow North Yorkshire libraries on Library Service Twitter or Library Service Facebook page.
There are a number of opportunities to volunteer at the library. See the library volunteering page or ask at the library for further details.