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Libraries – latest updates

Read about the latest updates and news for Westminster’s libraries and the Archives Centre.

Updates to Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea libraries’ shared borrowing arrangement

On Wednesday 1 June 2022 Hammersmith and Fulham left the library system they share with Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster and the shared borrowing arrangement between the three boroughs.

How will this affect me?

To facilitate the transition:

The shared Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster library system will continue from Wednesday 1 June 2022, as will the shared borrowing arrangement between the two boroughs.

  • Kensington and Chelsea library customers will continue to be able to reserve, borrow or renew items from Westminster libraries
  • Westminster library customers will continue to be able to reserve, borrow or renew items from Kensington and Chelsea libraries

Will I need a new library card?

  • If you mostly use Hammersmith and Fulham libraries but have a Kensington and Chelsea or Westminster library membership card, you should visit your local Hammersmith and Fulham library branch to obtain a replacement card
  • If you mostly use Kensington and Chelsea libraries but have a Hammersmith and Fulham library membership card, you should visit your local Kensington and Chelsea library branch to obtain a replacement card
  • If you mostly use Westminster libraries but have a Hammersmith and Fulham library membership card, you should visit your local Westminster library branch to obtain a replacement card

Is there a way I can keep borrowing items from Hammersmith and Fulham libraries?

Yes, you can reserve, borrow or renew items from Hammersmith and Fulham libraries if you have a valid Hammersmith and Fulham library membership card. If you are not already a member, you can register online on the Hammersmith and Fulham website to receive a temporary membership number. When you have your temporary number, please visit a Hammersmith and Fulham library branch with two items of identification, at least one of which must show your current address, to become a full member and borrow items.

Can I have library cards for more than one borough?

You can have separate library membership cards for Hammersmith and Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster Libraries if you wish, provided you meet their individual membership requirements:

Hammersmith and Fulham membership information

Kensington and Chelsea membership information

Westminster membership information

How can I find out more?

Please speak to a member of library staff in your local Westminster library or email: [email protected]

Published: 8 March 2022

Last updated: 31 May 2022