Solihull Library Service

So you thought libraries were just about books? From DVDs, CDs and audio books for hire to free internet access (first hour free) and events for all ages, Solihull libraries have something to offer everyone.

Solihull Central Library

Solihull Central Library is the flagship library for the borough and is a focal point for a range of information including events, Council services, learning and work, business information, local and family history.

There are over 40 computers available. We have the widest range of books to borrow and refer to including Community Language material, talking books and music scores. You can also hire film, music and special interest DVDs, language courses and music CDs.

Located in the same building Solihull Arts Complex has an exciting programme of shows and events throughout the year. The Café Bar offers a choice of hot and cold snacks to eat in or take away.

Your Local Library

We have 14 libraries in Solihull offering:

Books, newspapers and periodicals
DVDs and CDs
Books in large print and spoken word on cassette, CD and mp3
Free computer facilities including internet, email, word processing (first hour free)
Photo-copying, fax, scanning, and colour printing
Access to family history and other online resources that you can access for free
Help with homework

All of our libraries now have self-service kiosks which means library members can take out, return and renew their items simply by using their library card.

In the north of Solihull, our flagship is Chelmsley Wood, an attractive new library with a full range of services, including events, learning and work, and much more.

Our newest library has recently opened in Smith's Wood as part of Smith's Wood Community Primary School.

Home Library

The Home Library Service provides a home visit from a member of the Mobile library team for people who are confined to their homes and who don't have anyone to visit the library for them.

The service is also available to carers of people who are housebound. Normally the visits will be every four weeks on the same day. This does vary a little with Bank Holidays but we will always tell you about any changes. It provides books and spoken word cassettes for users to borrow.

If you would like to find out more about this service, write to Mobile and Home Library Service, Central Library, Homer Road, Solihull B91 3RG, or telephone 0121 704 6947

Books on Prescription

Books on Prescription is a scheme that allows doctors and other primary care mental health workers, to prescribe selected self-help books to patients with emotional or psychological problems. Books can be loaned from one of seven Solihull Libraries. .

Doctors have a list of self help books as recommended by specialists and can issue a prescription for a certain book to their patients. Once issued the prescription can be exchanged for the book at any of the seven Solihull libraries taking part in the scheme. Problems addressed by the books on the list include depression, panic, social phobia, anger, stress and low self esteem.

Exchange your book prescription at any participating library in Solihull, you don't even have to be a member. The seven Solihull libraries taking part in this scheme are:

Solihull Central library 0121 704 6991
Castle Bromwich library 0121 747 3708
Chelmsley Wood library 0121 788 4380
Hobs Moat library 0121 743 4592
Kingshurst library 0121 770 3451
Shirley library 0121 744 1076
Mobile library 0121 704 6947

The service aims to offer patients a range of self-help books chosen by medical professionals.

Libraries also provide the opportunity for volunteering.

Each summer we have large numbers of helpers of all ages encouraging children to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge and to get reading. We start recruiting for this in April/May.
If you have ICT skills to share we operate a 6 session course for over-50s for which we need volunteers to act as tutors. If you’d like to know more or become an ICT Buddy then contact Cliff Lamb on 0121 7046915.

Contact Details

Solihull Central Library
Homer Road, Solihull
West Midlands, B91 3RG

General enquiries/Library Reception: 0121 704 6965
Renewals Line: 0121 704 8400
If you are unable to get through to us on the above telephone numbers, you can leave a message with your name and telephone number and we will call you back as soon as possible.
Children's Library: 0121 704 6968
Information Services: 0121 704 6977
Heritage and Local Studies: 0121 704 6934
Mobile & Home Library Services: 0121 704 6947
Tourist Information/Box Office in the foyer: 0121 704 6130/6962
Connexions 0121 704 6711 (13-19yrs)
Learning Shop 0121 704 8265 (adults)
Connect Walk in Centre - for Council enquiries and bill payment - 0121 704 6000

Email: libraryarts@solihull.gov.uk