Cumbria Libraries - Select and Collect service

From Tuesday 4 August 2020, a new Select and Collect service will be available for library customers. Our library staff will put together a selection of books for you to collect from one of our 6 main libraries in Barrow, Carlisle, Kendal, Penrith, Whitehaven or Workington.

Each selection will include up to 6 items, and whilst we are currently unable to offer a request service for specific titles, we will choose books by your favourite authors, or particular categories of books which you enjoy. 

We can put together selections for children and young people, as well as for adults.

You can also ask to receive large print titles and talking books as well as books, or a mixture of all 3 formats. 

If you are not a member of the library but would like to use the Select and Collect service, you can join by calling the library you would like to use. (You will be asked to provide identification of your name and address when you pick up your first selection).

To use our Select and Collect service, please follow these steps:

  1. Download the Select and Collect form to complete onto your PC or device (we have provided both Word and PDF versions so use whichever format is easiest for you).   Select and Collect PDF form (PDF 511KB)  Select and Collect Word form (DOC 1MB)  (If you are using an iPad, please wait for the 'open it' box to appear at the bottom of the screen before downloading).
  2. Fill in all the sections on the Select and Collect form  - the more information you give us, the closer our selections will match your tastes. Please complete a separate form for each person.
  3. Email the completed form to the library you would like to collect your selection from - there is a list of library email addresses below. 
  4. Once we have received your completed form a member of Library staff will be in touch with you to arrange a collection time. If you can't come in person to pick up your Select and Collect selection, friends or family can do so on your behalf
  5. You will need to bring a bag with you when you come to the library to pick up your Select and Collect collection, as they are not provided
  6. Take your collection home and enjoy your selection!


From 4 August 2020 please email your completed form (or forms) to the library you would like to collect your selection from:


From 4 August 2020, if you would prefer to speak to a member of staff at your collection library, or order by phone, please contact the relevant library when the Select and Collect phone line is open:

  • Barrow Library: 01229 407373   Monday to Friday 10.30am to 12.30pm
  • Carlisle Library: 01228 227317   Monday to Friday 9.30am to 4.30pm
  • Kendal Library: 01539 713524   Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm
  • Penrith Library: 01768 812103   Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm
  • Whitehaven Library: 01946 506400   Monday to Friday 10am to 1pm
  • Workington Library: 01900 706175   Monday, Wednesday and Friday 2pm to 4pm     Tuesday and Thursday 9am to 11am