Library Services
In the library, you can read and borrow books, magazines, music, films, and various items. In the library facilities, you can study, pursue hobbies, and spend time, get guidance, or participate in instruction sessions, events, and exhibitions.
Libraries provide wireless internet access, computers, and the most common software. You can also use digital materials such as e-books, e-magazines, e-music, and more. Through your own library, you can also access materials from the Multilingual Library, the Celia Library for the visually impaired, and the Sign Language Library.
Requirements
You can visit libraries freely and use materials such as magazines, books and digital materials; electronic magazines and databases. A library card is required for borrowing. The card's numeric code together with a personal PIN code serve as identifiers when using the online services. Each library has its own user regulations. These regulations define the rights and responsibilities of the users.
Instructions
You can acquire your library card and the personal PIN code from the nearest library. The library will provide you with a card for borrowing materials in your municipality or from the library union operating in your municipality.
When collecting the library card, bring an identification, passport or, in exceptional circumstances, another identification card provided by the authorities. You cannot obtain a library card without a personal visit to the library. A child needs an application filled by his/her guardian for his/her library card.
Payment information
Using the library’s own materials, borrowing and making reservations, spending time in the library and guidance and advise are free of charge. A fee may be charged for interlibrary loans, copying materials and using assembly facilities. These details are defined in the user regulations of each library.
Service background and legislation
Libraries are meeting places and culture centres open to everyone. Libraries offer magazines, books, music, films and other materials for your use either on site or to be borrowed and taken home. Libraries also offer room for studying, hobbies and passing time. In addition, guidance, assistance, events and exhibitions are organised. In libraries, you can connect to a wireless network and use computers equipped with the most common software. Many libraries also offer different kinds of items to be borrowed. Library staff provide help and assistance in all questions related to the available material and services.
Most libraries’ collections also include digital materials. The libraries’ national online services at the Kirjastot.fi website are open for everyone, as well as the Finna.fi service. Your own library also provides you with titles from the Multilingual Library and the library for accessible literature and publishing, Celia. There is also a web-based library of material in signed languages, the Sign Language Library.