FAQs

Live Life Aberdeenshire library service is one of the most innovative in Scotland. In recent years we have seen our customers change how they use the service. Many customers enjoy accessing books and services through our online and internet services. We continue to provide physical books and support literacy groups such as Book Bug. The patterns of use are changing, and as a result, we are looking at how best we deliver for local communities across Aberdeenshire.

We know that many of our customers enjoy accessing physical books and the service will continue to support this. There will be regular visits of the library e-van to a central location in the community for book browsing and lending service. Our e-vans have browsable shelving which allows the team to provide a bespoke book collection that residents can access during scheduled library visits. We can help you to choose books that will be delivered to you in your community through this service.

In addition, you can borrow from Banff or Macduff libraries in addition to e-books and audiobooks through our digital library platform. Opening times and details of these libraries can be found at https://www.livelifeaberdeenshire.org.uk/libraries/

We have staff that can help with book choice. You can arrange a doorstep delivery by filling in the form online https://www.livelifeaberdeenshire.org.uk/libraries/click-and-collect/delivery-service/ or phoning your local library on 01261 455752 and staff will assist and arrange a book doorstep delivery for you.  

If you can get out locally there will be regular visits of the library e-van to a central location in the community for book browsing and lending service. Our e-vans have browsable shelving which allows the team to provide a bespoke book collection that residents can access during scheduled library visits. This will include options for large print titles.

Yes, you can use the library computers in Banff and Macduff libraries and you can also access our digital resources including databases from any Internet-connected device.

Certainly! We will continue to provide a range of programmes and events, including book clubs, author talks, and educational workshops. These will be held at various venues throughout Aberdeenshire. We are currently exploring alternative locations in the community that can offer a welcoming environment for events. For example, we plan to hold Memories Scotland sessions at Redwell Court sheltered housing in Whitehills, and Bookbug sessions at both Whitehills School and Nursery, as well as in Portsoy Primary School and Nursery.

We have solutions for those who want to borrow and return books. Our library e-van will make visits to communities in Aberdeenshire. The e-van has shelves where you can find a customised book collection chosen by our team. You can return your books at the van or at Banff or Macduff library. We are also exploring options for additional pick-up and drop-off points within the community.

As a member, you have the option to receive notifications about updates on library services. We share information on our social media pages, as well as on posters in local facilities and notice boards. If you have any questions about the service, our staff at events or van delivery sessions will be happy to assist you. Additionally, you can stay updated on future events and activities by viewing posters in Banff and Macduff library, as well as community venues.

The purpose of releasing the building is to facilitate the development of an innovative and improved library service. Once the release is completed, the building will be handed over to the Estates team within Aberdeenshire Council. They will ensure that the building is secure and safe, and explore possible future uses or sale. If there is interest and the building is suitable groups can also receive assistance in exploring a community asset transfer.