Your library. More often.
Devonport Library and Penguin Library now offer self-access hours between 7:00 am and 9:00 pm every day. Regular staffed opening hours remain unchanged.
With Open Library Access, you can visit the library at a time that suits you between 7:00 am – 9:00 pm, even without staff on site. Explore the shelves, find a quiet space to study, or borrow a book at your convenience.
Libraries Tasmania members can use Open Library Access after completing an induction.
Safety is a top priority. Upgraded systems including CCTV, security alarms, sensor lights and cameras ensure a secure environment.
How to upgrade your membership to use Open Library Access
- Contact Penguin Library or Devonport Library to book an induction session. If you want to apply for access at more than one library, you will need to attend the induction at each location.
- Attend the induction. Remember to bring your library card with you.
- When the induction is completed, your membership will be upgraded so you can visit the library during Open Library Access hours.
More information
- Ask a staff member for a copy of the Frequently Asked Questions about Open Library Access.
- You will receive specific details about how Open Library Access works at your induction.
- Note: On Monday 2 November from 6:00 pm and again on Wednesday 4 November from 6:00 pm, self-issue kiosks will not be available. Open Library Access is still available but borrowing via the self-issue kiosk will not be available on these two nights across all three Open Library Access locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Open Library Access?
Open Library Access lets approved members use the library outside normal staffed hours at Devonport and Penguin libraries.
Once you’ve completed an induction and upgraded your membership, you can enter the library from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm every day, even when staff are not on site.
This gives you more flexibility to use the library when it suits you. You might pick up a hold on your way home from work, enjoy the library with your family on the weekend, study in the evening, or use library resources when it suits you.
Why is Libraries Tasmania offering this service?
Open Library Access gives people more opportunities to use their local library.
The service provides longer opening hours and more flexibility, making it easier for people with busy schedules to visit the library when it suits them.
Will there be any change to staff or normal opening hours?
No. Open Library Access is an additional service and does not replace staffed library services and opening hours.
Library staff will continue to provide the same support, services and programs during normal opening hours.
Who can sign up for Open Library Access?
Libraries Tasmania members aged 18 years and over can apply for Open Library Access.
To activate Open Library Access, you need to:
- be a current Libraries Tasmania member
- attend a short induction session
- agree to the terms and conditions.
Once approved, your library card will be activated so you can access the library during Open Library Access hours.
Which libraries offer Open Library Access?
Devonport and Penguin libraries.
How do I sign up for Open Library Access?
Getting started is easy.
- Join Libraries Tasmania if you’re not already a member.
- Book and attend a short Open Library Access induction session at your library.
- Agree to the Open Library Access terms and conditions.
- Once approved, your library card will be activated for Open Library Access.
After activation, you can use your library card to enter the library during Open Library Access hours.
What happens at the induction session?
The induction takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
A staff member will show you:
- how to enter and leave the library safely
- what services and spaces are available during Open Library Access hours
- the library rules and conditions of use
- what to do in an emergency
- how to get help if you need it.
The induction helps make sure you feel confident using the library when staff are not on site.
How do I book an induction?
You can book an induction by:
- speaking with staff at Devonport or Penguin Library
- calling your local library
- contacting Libraries Tasmania online.
Staff will arrange a suitable time and answer any questions you may have.
How does Open Library Access work?
Once your library card has been activated, you can use it to enter the library during Open Library Access hours. Simply scan your card at the entry panel to unlock the door.
During Open Library Access hours, you can:
- borrow and return library items
- collect holds
- use public computers
- access Wi-Fi
- study, read and use library spaces independently.
Do I have to pay for Open Library Access?
No. Open Library Access is free for Libraries Tasmania members.
Can I bring family members or guests?
Open Library Access membership is for personal use only.
Members may bring their dependent children under 18 years of age.
Adults aged 18 years and over must have their own Open Library Access membership to enter the library during Open Library Access hours.
How will the library be safe when staff are not on site?
Safety is our priority.
Open Library Access libraries have security measures in place, including:
- security cameras
- duress alarms
- sensor lighting
- secure entry systems.
All members must complete an induction before using the service. During the induction, members learn how to use the library safely and what their responsibilities are during Open Library Access hours.
What if I need help during Open Library Access hours?
Library staff are not on site during Open Library Access hours.
If you need help with borrowing, technology or general enquiries, staff will be available during normal opening hours.
Emergency information and contact details are available inside the library.
What happens if someone does not follow the rules?
Members are expected to follow the Open Library Access terms and conditions at all times.
Access may be suspended or removed if the conditions of use are not followed or if the safety of others is affected.
Can I access all areas of the library?
Most public areas and services are available during Open Library Access hours.
Some areas, activities or services may only be available when staff are on site. Staff can provide more information about what is available at your local library.
