Our digital services
Libraries enable 24/7 digital access through:
- free eBooks and audiobooks
- newspapers and magazines
- trusted information resources
- social media engagement
- virtual book groups
- online events and activities
“I love the different themes that are great for hunting down different genres and books that I might never have thought of reading. As someone who doesn’t leave the house often for health reasons, the online group session makes it accessible for me.”
Information and signposting
Libraries help residents find trusted information and access the support they need, including:
- advice and guidance
- support to access council services
- NHS support and information
- signposting to community organisations
- early intervention through signposting to local services
Of the customers we surveyed, 98% said they would recommend our services to a friend.
Health and wellbeing
Libraries support health and wellbeing by bringing people together through inclusive, community-focused activities that reduce isolation and build connections.
“It really does beat loneliness, I come here to have a chat with everyone otherwise it would be really lonely at home.”
Our library teams
Our skilled and knowledgeable library teams provide a consistent service across Dorset. They are supported with:
- flexible working across the network
- customer service training
- apprenticeships and work experience opportunities
- ongoing staff development
- modern, sustainable service delivery
Our volunteers
Volunteering in libraries plays a vital role in strengthening communities by:
- building skills and confidence
- fostering social connections
- providing training and experience
- supporting local communities and library services
Dedicated volunteers extend the library offer, including 25 young volunteers contributing over 270 hours to support the Summer Reading Challenge last year.
“My volunteer is wonderful, she will find any book I request. Since I had to give up my car I can no longer go to the library and this service makes borrowing books so easy, she is a life saver.”
Responding to the climate and nature crisis
Libraries help people make greener choices by:
- promoting borrowing as a sustainable alternative to buying new
- supporting the Green Libraries Manifesto
- hosting the council’s ‘Our Journey to Net Zero’ exhibition
- supporting local recycling and waste reduction initiatives, including providing collection points for recycling bins and purple sacks
- helping communities learn about climate action and sustainability
Removing barriers to affordable and suitable housing
Through trusted advice and face-to-face support, libraries help people with:
- document scanning and online forms
- housing surveys and applications
- signposting specialist housing and welfare services, including access to Citizens Advice services in many libraries
- housing support services based at Weymouth Library
