Frequently asked questions
What if my group has already made its requests for the next few months?
Those requests will be honoured under the arrangements in place prior to 1 October, but only until 1 January 2019.
When should we pay our subscription?
Subscriptions can be paid at the local library at any time from 1 October. The payment date will also be the renewal date for the next year.
What if my group is small, and then we are receiving fewer books for our subscription charge?
Firstly, in some cases, groups start small and attract more members. However, a small group does need to decide if the subscription provides greater value and better access than the individual members using their own membership cards to make their own book reservations. If the group decides not to subscribe, then when individual members receive their books (which may well not arrive at the same time as those for others in the group), they would need to ask library staff for an extended loan, if needed, and these can only be granted for books not in high demand. Request charges and overdue charges would apply to the individuals.
If we choose not to subscribe, are we still able to have a group membership?
No, this is a change in how we deliver the reading group sets service. Outside this service, group members need to use their personal library memberships to request the books they wish to read, and all usual charges apply. Current Group memberships will come to an end in January 2019, if subscriptions are not made. These memberships can be reactivated once subscriptions are made.
Our reading group operates differently and doesn’t fit the pattern you are setting out. What should we do?
We appreciate that no two groups are identical, and some may not all read the same book at the same time, may have differing frequency of meeting, or have some other circumstances that need taking into account. Please email reading.groups@staffordshire.gov.uk to let us know how you operate, and we will consider how best to accommodate your needs.
Audiobook Reading Groups
We do not hold sets of Audiobooks. Groups requesting sets should be aware that Audiobooks may be available in different formats (CD sets, MP3CD or Playaway) so groups will need to advise if there are formats they do not wish to use. If individual group members wish to use our e-audio service to get their copy, they would need to sign up for the service separately and check availability of titles the group wishes to read. E-audio services may have loan restrictions, but they are completely free to use.
If there are no sets, why is there a subscription charge?
The subscription charge is applicable when the work to pull together sets of Audiobooks is undertaken by the local library staff and volunteers.
What are the advantages of subscribing?
By subscribing the service then operates on the same principle as the book loans:
- 3-month loan
- No renewals
- No charges - overdue or loan
What if we don’t subscribe?
If groups wish to manage requesting their own titles on the Library Catalogue, they can do so without paying the subscription charge. Group members each need to use their personal library memberships to make requests. Whilst requesting Audiobooks is free of charge to all, any group members who are not personally exempt from loan charges will need to pay them, and all appropriate overdue charges will apply to all group members.
Still have a question?
For any further queries please contact reading.groups@staffordshire.gov.uk.