Libraries

  • Library staff image

Libraries

Welcome to Blackburn with Darwen library and information service.  This is where you can find out about all our services, including:

If you are interested in local history, Cotton Town, our digital archive, gives a wealth of information about the area through historical material, including photographs, maps, posters and newspaper articles. 

Qiss logo  In February 2009 we achieved 'Established' accreditation to the DfES Quality in Study Support (QiSS) standard.  The award relates to out of hours learning and the assessment covered all aspects of library service provision for 0 to19 year olds.   QiSS accreditation more usually focuses on schools and nationally, only a few library authorities have achieved recognition. 

If you have a query or comment about our services please e-mail us at library@blackburn.gov.uk



  • News and events!

    News and events!

    Discover which authors are coming to Blackburn Central Library soon. Find out how you can get a free health check at the library, plus keep informed about events by following us on Twitter.


  • Website of the month

    Try KnowUK and NewsUK this month for specific UK information. KnowUK is the essential online reference shelf containing over 100 publications. NewsUK covers national and regional newspapers.


  • 10 ways libraries can help with the credit crunch

    It's a difficult time for the economy at the moment and libraries can play a really important part in saving you money. Find out how.

Related Links

  • Search the catalogue
    This link allows you 24/7 access from work or the comfort of your own home.
  • How to renew items
    Discover the range of options available to you.
  • Opening hours
    We have five libraries and a mobile - find out when you can visit.
  • Join our libraries online
    Find out what to do to become a member.
  • Access our 24/7 information here
    Take a look at what we subscribe to, so you don’t have to! Resources include encyclopedias, Ancestry.library edition, business and health information, news, reference books, how to pass your driving theory test, abstracts and indexes for teachers, library professionals and environmentalists.
  • Contact us
    Spaces to think or meet, centres for discovery and learning with resources and staff to help you. See what your libraries can do for you.
  • Enquire
    A national live question and answer service available 24 hours a day, every day, allowing you to put questions to trained library staff! Try it today!