Oxford’s public libraries offer book borrowing, computers, free Wi-Fi and activities, with services varying by branch. This guide covers the city’s council libraries, nearby Kennington and the wider Oxfordshire network.
Information checked: 16 October 2026. Membership is free for UK residents. Online applicants must collect their library card and permanent borrower number before using eBooks or Reference Online.
Blackbird Leys closure: The council says the library will close for building improvements from Monday 9 November to Friday 4 December 2026, reopening on Saturday 5 December. Littlemore is due to offer extra hours and some relocated activities. Check the branch notice before travelling.
Public libraries in Oxford
Use each branch link for current opening hours, access details and events. Some libraries close at lunchtime or on particular weekdays. You can also find your nearest library by postcode.
Oxford Westgate Library
Where: 228 The Westgate, Queen Street, Oxford, OX1 1PE.
Oxford Westgate Library has computers, free Wi-Fi, printing and copying, a local history collection, a makerspace and a room available for hire. The council lists level access, automatic doors, lifts, accessible toilets and a hearing loop. Check room availability and any charges before booking.
Headington Library
Where: North Place, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9HY.
Headington Library offers computers, Wi-Fi, printing, copying and a local studies collection. Its listed access facilities include level access, a lift and an accessible toilet. The branch page carries details of family activities and other events.
Summertown Library
Where: South Parade, Summertown, OX2 7JN.
Summertown Library offers computers, Wi-Fi, printing and local studies material. The Turrill Sculpture Garden is reached through the library and opens during its hours. The council currently says the library does not offer unstaffed access.
Cowley Library
Where: Temple Road, Cowley, Oxford, OX4 2EZ.
Cowley Library has computers, Wi-Fi, printing, copying and a local history collection. The council lists ramped access and an automatic door. Check its events page for activities such as Rhymetime and Code Club.
Blackbird Leys Library
Where: Blackbird Leys Road, Oxford, OX4 6HT.
Blackbird Leys Library offers computers, Wi-Fi, printing, copying and room hire. Its forthcoming closure is set out above; do not assume normal opening hours apply during that period.
Littlemore Library
Where: Oxford Academy Campus, Sandy Lane West, Littlemore, OX4 6JZ.
Littlemore Library has computers, Wi-Fi, printing and a local studies collection. Access is via the main drive to Oxford Academy from Sandy Lane West. The separate pedestrian gate opposite the Long Lane underpass closes 15 minutes before the library. The council lists level access, accessible parking and an accessible toilet.
Old Marston Library
Where: Mortimer Hall, Oxford Road, Old Marston, OX3 0PH.
Old Marston Library provides computers, Wi-Fi, printing, copying and a local studies collection. Its opening pattern includes afternoon and evening sessions, so check the timetable before setting out.
Barton Library
Where: Barton Neighbourhood Centre, Underhill Circus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9LS.
Barton Library offers adult and children’s books, computers, Wi-Fi, printing and copying. Staffed hours differ from the centre’s access hours. Bring your library card to borrow through the self-service machine when staff are not present.
Nearby: Kennington Library
Where: The Village Centre, Kennington Road, Kennington, OX1 5PG.
Kennington Library serves the village south of Oxford. Facilities include computers, Wi-Fi, printing and copying. The council lists ramped access, accessible parking and an accessible toilet.
How to join Oxfordshire Libraries
Joining is free. Anyone living in the UK is eligible.
- Apply through the council’s joining page, or ask at a branch. Online applicants need an email address, their local library’s name and a four-digit PIN that does not begin with zero.
- Visit a branch to complete the online application and collect your card. Bring personal identification, such as a passport, driving licence or bank card.
- Wait for your permanent borrower number before using eBooks or Reference Online. The temporary online account alone is not sufficient.
Under-16s need a parent or guardian’s permission; the application also asks for a parent, guardian or carer’s name and address. People who are housebound or have a reading impairment can ask staff about alternative arrangements.
Borrowing, digital resources and charges
The council’s standard allowance is up to 20 books for three weeks free of charge. Borrowed items can be returned to any Oxfordshire library. Check renewal options and due dates on your account.
Members can use Libby and BorrowBox for eBooks and audiobooks. The council also provides digital newspapers and magazines through services including PressReader and OverDrive. Follow the library’s sign-in instructions for each service.
Free membership does not mean every service is free. Reservations, late returns, printing and some audiovisual loans can incur charges, with concessions for certain users. Consult the current charges and fines before using a paid service.
Accessibility and support
Access arrangements differ between buildings. Check the specific branch’s page or contact staff about ramps, lifts, toilets, hearing loops, computer support or a suitable place to study. Do not assume every branch has a bookable room or the same facilities.
The council’s free Home Library Service may help people who find it difficult to visit because of their circumstances, including temporary illness or caring responsibilities. Contact your local library or call 01865 810259 to discuss eligibility and arrangements.
Oxfordshire and Oxford libraries: A–Z
The council directory lists these 44 branches. Each link provides the branch’s address, opening hours and contact details. This countywide list includes Benson and Berinsfield; Woodgreen Library is in Banbury.
- Abingdon Library
- Adderbury Library
- Bampton Library
- Banbury Library
- Barton Library
- Benson Library
- Berinsfield Library
- Bicester Library
- Blackbird Leys Library
- Botley Library
- Burford Library
- Carterton Library
- Charlbury Library
- Chinnor Library
- Chipping Norton Library
- Cowley Library
- Deddington Library
- Didcot Library
- Eynsham Library
- Faringdon Library
- Goring Library
- Grove Library
- Headington Library
- Henley Library
- Hook Norton Library
- Kennington Library
- Kidlington Library
- Littlemore Library
- North Leigh Library
- Old Marston Library
- Oxford Westgate Library
- Sonning Common Library
- Stonesfield Library
- Summertown Library
- Thame Library
- Wallingford Library
- Wantage Library
- Watlington Library
- Wheatley Library
- Witney Library
- Woodcote Library
- Woodgreen Library
- Woodstock Library
- Wychwood Library
This guide covers the county council’s public-library network. University and college libraries have separate admission arrangements.
Updated 16 October 2026: the branch directory and joining instructions have been corrected, accessibility claims made specific to each branch, and the forthcoming Blackbird Leys closure added. The previous directory omitted Benson and Berinsfield and incorrectly placed Woodgreen in Witney.
