Libraries offer to schools

Boy reading a book

Find out more about our offer to schools and other educational groups.

Visits to libraries

We welcome group visits to all our libraries by schools, nurseries, children's centres, playgroups and other out-of-school groups.

Prior booking is essential, normally with a minimum of half a term’s notice.

All requests will be considered, but we cannot guarantee a visit on a particular day or at a particular time.

What happens during a typical visit?

Exact content may vary according to the age of the children, but we aim to give:

  • A general introduction to children's library services
  • Practical advice on using the catalogue and searching for stock
  • Information about our regular activities and forthcoming special events
  • Time to browse, choose and borrow books
  • An interactive engaging story or rhymetime

Can you tailor a visit to support current topics of study?

We don’t tailor visits to support curriculum delivery, except to support local history study as part of the primary history curriculum. See below for further details

Will children be able to borrow a book?

We encourage all children and young people to become members of the library and borrow books during group visits.

If children already have their own library ticket they can use this to borrow items during the visit.

Where children aren’t already members, ask about our options for prior registration before the visit at the time of booking.

How do I book a visit?

You need to contact the library that you want to visit.

We will ask you to provide details about the number and age range of the children attending and if any have special needs, as well as your preferred date and time and alternatives.

We will check if the preferred date is available and get back to confirm details or to discuss further.

Local history research and support for teachers

Derby Local Studies and Family History Library offers supported teacher research to identify primary sources to support your history curriculum.

  • Once you’ve chosen a topic come and explore what’s available in the library. Expect to spend at least a few hours!
  • Library staff will introduce you to the search tools and offer suggestions.
  • For a fee, we can provide digital copies of your chosen material for you to use in the classroom.

To find out more call the library on 01332 642240 or email localstudies.library@derby.gov.uk.