FAQs
have increased access to library services
benefit from longer and more convenient opening hours
access the library if you work during the day, study, care for others or have other commitments
make better use of library buildings and facilities
have greater flexibility in how and when you use the library
borrow and return library items
collect reservations
use public computers
access Wi-Fi
print (where available)
read, study and work in the library
use self-service facilities
host or join workshops, activities and other events (that are not organised by the library)
customer assistance will not be available
library-led events and activities will not take place (however, events and activities organised by other groups or organisations can still take place during Open Plus hours)
some services may be restricted depending on the building. Customers who require assistance should visit during staffed opening hours.
be a library member
register for Open Plus access
complete a short induction.
agree to the Open Plus terms and conditions
use your library card and PIN to enter the building
secure access using a library card and PIN
CCTV monitoring
access control systems
emergency contact facilities
automated safety announcements
clear emergency procedures and evacuation information
help with enquiries
support with digital access
recommend books and resources
deliver learning activities and events
provide specialist support
library notices and displays
library newsletters and social media
staff in your local library
What is Open Plus?
Open Plus is a secure self-service technology that allows library members to access the library outside of staffed opening hours using their library card and PIN.
It gives people more flexibility to use the library when it suits them, while retaining existing staffed library services.
Which libraries are introducing Open Plus?
Open Plus is being introduced at Dickens Heath, Hobs Moat and Balsall Common libraries.
There are currently no plans to extend this service across other libraries.
When will Open Plus be available at the three sites?
The three sites will have Open Plus technology installed between winter 2026 to spring 2027.
Each library will have to close for approximately three weeks while the technology is installed. Further details will be provided once dates are confirmed.
Why is Open Plus being introduced?
Open Plus allows you to:
Are any libraries closing as a result of Open Plus?
No.
Open Plus does not replace the library or staffed services. Staff will still be available during normal opening hours to provide support, run activities, deliver events and help people access services.
Open Plus simply provides additional hours when people can use the library independently.
What can I do during Open Plus hours?
You will be able to:
What services won't be available during Open Plus hours?
During Open Plus hours there will be no library staff on site.
This means:
Who can use Open Plus?
Open Plus access is intended for registered library members who have completed the registration process and induction.
Details of age requirements and eligibility will be confirmed before launch.
How do I access the library during Open Plus hours?
You will need to:
Is it safe to use the library when staff are not present?
Yes. Many library services across the UK already use Open Plus successfully and safely. A range of measures will be in place, including:
Will someone know I am in the building?
Yes.
Access is controlled through library member registration and entry systems, which record who has entered the library.
Security systems and CCTV help monitor the building during Open Plus hours.
What happens if there is an emergency?
The library will have clear emergency procedures and emergency contact information available.
Open Plus users will receive information on emergency arrangements during their induction.
Can children use the library during Open Plus hours?
The arrangements for children and young people will be set out in the Open Plus terms and conditions.
Details will be provided when registration opens.
Will Open Plus affect staffed opening hours?
Staffed library services will continue.
The aim of Open Plus is to provide additional access to the library, giving customers more opportunities to visit outside normal staffed hours.
Can I still get help from library staff during normal opening?
Absolutely.
Library staff will continue to provide the same support during staffed opening hours as before. This includes:
What if I don't want to use Open Plus?
You do not need to use Open Plus if you do not want to.
You can continue to use the library during normal staffed opening hours exactly as you do now.
Is there a cost to being an Open Plus library user?
No.
There is no additional cost for residents to use Open Plus. Standard library charges and fees (where applicable) will continue to apply.
How is Open Plus funded?
The project is grant funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority.
How can I register?
Further information about registration, inductions and launch dates will be shared before Open Plus becomes available.
Customers will be able to access guidance and support throughout the registration process.
Where can I get updates on Open Plus?
We'll provide updates on this webpage.
You can also find information from:
You can sign up for updates by clicking the 'Subscribe' button on this page
How can I give feedback on Open Plus?
Ahead of the launch, residents are being asked to share what they would like to see in the three libraries as part of Open Plus. This feedback will be used to help determine the types of workshops, activities and events which could be held in libraries during Open Plus hours. People can take part by clicking ‘Take survey’ on this webpage.
Once Open Plus is live, we will invite Open Plus users to share their feedback on the scheme.