Using the Library

Borrow Print Books 📖

For information on the types of books available, visit our Book Resources page.

How to Borrow

• The easiest way to borrow books is by using our self-service machines.
• These are available 24/7 at each library site.
• You can borrow up to 8 print books at a time.

You will need:

• Your library ID (you can scan your card or enter the number manually).
• Your library password. If you need a reset, please email esneftlibrary@esneft.nhs.uk or visit the library catalogue (link below) and click 'Forgot your password.' 

Other Ways to Borrow

• Library enquiry desk - Staff can issue books during office hours.
• Books on hold or reserved - These must be collected from the enquiry desk during office hours.

After Borrowing

• You will receive an email receipt listing the books you have borrowed and their due dates, unless you have opted out of this service.

     Self-Service machines at Ipswich and Colchester Hospital Libraries

Renew 🔄

Automatic Renewals – What You Need to Know 

The library uses an automatic renewal system to make borrowing easier for you.

How it works:

• Up to 3 automatic renewals per book, each for 28 days, after your initial loan period.
• No action needed – eligible books are automatically renewed unless reserved or otherwise restricted.
• You’ll receive an email notification about whether your loans have been renewed or if any action is needed.

Important:

• The library reserves the right to recall books at any time.
• You must return a book immediately if requested by library staff, even before the due date.
• Some books may not be eligible for automatic renewal.
• After your 3 automatic renewals, email us if you still need the book – we may be able to extend the loan manually.

Exceptions:

• Reserved books will not renew automatically.
• Books from outside the East of England region are not eligible for automatic renewal.

If you have any concerns with your loans, please email esneftlibrary@esneft.nhs.uk.

Return ↩️

There are several ways you can return your books to the library:

Return at the library enquiry desk

• You can return books in person at the library enquiry desk at either Ipswich or Colchester during office hours.

Return via the self-service machine

• Books can be returned at any time using the self-service machine.
• After scanning, place the books in the return box located inside the library.

Use a book return box (available anytime)

If the library is closed or you’re nearby:

• At Colchester, use the blue 'Library Book Return' box outside Villa 8.
• At Ipswich, use the red return box located along the Education Centre corridor.
• Library staff check these boxes daily. Any books found will be returned on the system by staff.

Returning books from other libraries

• If you are returning a book borrowed from another library, the self-service machine may not recognise it.
• Please place it in a returns box and library staff will ensure it is removed from your account 

Missing Books 📖❗

The library may charge you for lost or significantly damaged books.

• You are responsible for every item issued to your account.
• If items are damaged or lost, you may be charged replacement costs and an administration fee.
• The exact details will be discussed on a case-by-case basis with the Library Services Lead.
• If you have not returned books on loan from us and do not respond to our correspondence within a certain amount of time, we will treat the books as missing and you may be charged a replacement cost and administration fee.

Please note: You must not let anyone else use your account to borrow books. Each member of staff must have their own account if they wish to use our services. You are responsible for every item issued to your account. If they are damaged or lost, you may be charged replacement costs and an administration fee.

Books - FAQS ℹ️

How can I access the library catalogue? 

You can access the library catalogue below 

For more information on the types of books we have please refer to our resources page.

Do I need to log into my library account to search for books?

No you do not need to login to search for books.  However, you will need to log into your account if you wish to place a reservation on a book. 

Do you have any reading lists?

Yes.  We have created a number of reading lists focused on different topics and staff groups.  You can find links to our current readings lists on our print book page.  We also welcome suggestions on developing new lists. 

How many books can I have on loan?

You can have up to a maximum of 8 books issued to your library account at anyone one time.

How long can I loan a book for? 

Each book is on loan for 28 days. 

Can my books be renewed? 

Yes, although we do operate a 3 time automatic renewal system.  Please see the renewing section above for more information. 

Do you issue fines for late books?

No, one of the key benefits of an NHS Library is that we do not charge fines for late books.  Charges may be made for missing books or books which are significantly damaged.

Do I need my library card to borrow books?

No, you no longer need a physical library card to borrow books.  Provided you know your library ID and password you can enter these details manually on the self-service machines. 

I have lost my library card, is it possible to get a new one? 

If you have lost your library card please let us know. We will re-issue you a new card. We do not charge for replacement cards. 

I have a book on hold can somebody else come and collect for me on my behalf?

Yes.  Another member of staff can come and collect a book on your behalf.  However, you must either email or phone the library beforehand to let us know.  Please note that you are still responsible for the book, even if somebody else picks it up for you.  

Can another member of staff use my account to borrow books for themselves? 

No.  You must not let any one else use your account to borrow books. Each member of staff must have their own account if they wish to use our services. You are responsible for every item issued to your account. If they are damaged or lost you may be charged replacement costs and admin fee.

Contact Us 🗨️  

esneftlibrary@esneft.nhs.uk 

Colchester - 01206 742146  

Ipswich - 01473 702544 (ext 1544)