SELMS Frequently Asked Questions
What is SELMS?
SELMS is a partnership of libraries which are working together to improve and widen access to resources for all their customers.
Which authorities are in the SELMS partnership?
- Buckinghamshire
- Brighton and Hove
- Hertfordshire
- Kent
- London Borough of Camden
- London Borough of Richmond upon Thames
- London Borough of Southwark
- Medway
- Milton Keynes
- Reading
- Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead
- Slough
- Southend-on-Sea
- West Berkshire
How does the partnership work?
You can use your library card to borrow from partner libraries in person, or to reserve their books and talking books to be collected from your home library. It is also possible to pay your library charges in any partner library.
Will other libraries be able to see my personal data?
Only if you choose to borrow something in person from a partner library or if you choose to pick up a reserved item from a partner library. If you require more information please visit your library authoritiies website to view their privacy statement in detail.
How can I view the holdings of partner libraries?
An online Catalogue search on your local library website will show a link to 'Try this search in the SELMS Catalogue'.
What items can I reserve from outside of my home library?
You may reserve books and talking books .
Is there a charge for a SELMS reservation?
Yes, there is a non refundable charge of £3 per item for all customers.
How can I reserve from a partner library?
You can reserve in two ways:
- Online via the library catalogue N.B. Always click on the individual title i.e. Full Display that you want to reserve, never tick a selection in the Brief Display list as this will not warn you if there are no copies available
- In person at your local library.
You will need your library card and PIN.
How will I know when my item is ready for collection?
If you have reserved an item for pickup from any of our libraries you will receive a notice from us when it is ready to pick up.
If you have chosen to pick up the item from a partner library the notice will be sent to you by them.
How long can I keep an item for that has come from a partner library?
Items from partner libraries will be issued for the standard loan period.
If I go to a partner library to borrow an item how long can I keep it for?
The item will be issued for the normal loan period of the partner library.
Why can't I reserve DVDs or CDs from partner libraries?
Each partner generates income from these items, which supplements the local service.
Can I renew items borrowed from a partner library in my Library?
Yes all of your loans will be visible to staff at your local library, but please make it clear to staff which items you wish to renew.
Can I return items borrowed from a partner library to my home library?
Yes, if you have borrowed an item from a linked partner library you may return it to any SELMS Partner library, including your home branch.