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Libraries are a great community resource. We provide exhibition space, support for reading groups, talks for schools and groups, and meeting spaces.

Check which facilities are available at your local library on the Our Libraries page.

Warm Welcome Spaces

All of our libraries have been designated as Warm Welcome Spaces, which means anyone in the community is welcome to come and spend time in the library, keep warm and make use of our free computers and book collections. You do not need to be a member of the library, although you will need a membership card to use a computer or to borrow items. View a map of Warm Welcome Spaces.

Many libraries offer regular events and activities for all ages. Please visit the Facebook page of your local library for up-to-date information. Just search for Somerset Libraries UK, followed by the library location that you would like more information about.

You can check the opening times of our libraries.

We also have more information about support available on our Cost of living in Somerset page.

Meeting rooms

All our libraries are available to hire by groups, organisations and businesses outside normal opening hours. Frome Library has a small meeting room for hire, and Taunton Library has a 65-seater meeting room with conference facilities. The Glass Box at Taunton Library can hold 50 people and is also available to hire.

You can find out how to book meeting rooms on our How to book library facilities page.

Exhibitions

Some libraries provide space for displays and exhibitions throughout the year. We offer reduced rates for groups such as charities, community groups and non-profit organisations.

For more information and to book a space, please email the library or speak to the staff at your preferred location.

Access to exhibition space and discounted fees is at the discretion of the Council.

Talks

We offer talks to schools, pre-schools, clubs and community groups. Both at the library and at your own location.

Talks can be tailored to suit your particular needs. We cover themes like using IT, how to use the library, and exploring school curriculum topics.

Email the library to make a request and discuss what we can offer.

Reading groups

Anyone can set up a reading group. It is a fun way to meet other book lovers, discover new books and look at old classics in a new way. There is guidance and additional material available online to help groups get the best out of their books.

We offer special memberships for reading groups, which are available to anyone wishing to run a reading group.

You can borrow up to 12 copies of a single title for your group to read and discuss. The loan period is 8 weeks, and you can renew your loans if the title hasn’t been reserved by another group. Reading group books must be ordered by a member of staff at your local library. Staff can also provide you with suggestions on what to read.