Borrowing Books from the National Library: Your Guide to Literary Larceny (of the legal kind, obviously)
Ever felt that yearning for a good book, that itch that only a fresh story can scratch? Well, fret no more, bookworms and bibliophiles! The National Library (NLB) is your treasure trove of literary delights, and this guide will equip you with the knowledge to plunder its shelves... legally, of course.
| How To Borrow Books From Nlb |
Step 1: Arm Yourself (with a Library Card, not a Spork)
Think of your library card as your Excalibur, granting you access to a kingdom of words. Don't have one? No worries! Signing up is easier than, well, falling into a good book. Head to your nearest NLB branch or register online: https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/services/library-membership. Remember, knowledge is power, and a library card is its key.
Step 2: Embrace the Force (The Search Force, that is)
The NLB website and mobile app are your trusty lightsabers in this literary adventure. Use the search function to find your desired book. Be warned, padawan learner: the sheer volume of choices may be overwhelming. But fear not, for the "filter by" options are your allies, helping you narrow down your search by genre, author, or even language (because who says your literary journey can't be international?).
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.![]()
Pro Tip: Feeling adventurous? Explore the "staff picks" or "most popular" sections. You never know what hidden gems you might unearth!
Step 3: Claim Your Spoils (Borrowing, Not Stealing!)
Once you've found your chosen weapon (book, I mean!), it's time to claim your prize. You have two options, brave adventurer:
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.![]()
Option A: The Physical Quest (a.k.a. Visiting the Library)
Head to your chosen NLB branch, scan your library card at the self-service borrowing station, and voila! The book is yours (well, for a limited time, but let's not get bogged down in details).
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.![]()
Option B: The Digital Heist (a.k.a. Using the NLB Mobile App)
For the tech-savvy treasure hunter, the NLB mobile app is your best friend. Simply scan the book's barcode with your phone's camera, and the book will be virtually added to your borrowing list. Pick it up at your convenience from any NLB branch with a "Click & Collect" counter.
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.![]()
Remember: With great borrowing power comes great responsibility. Return your books on time to avoid fines and the wrath of the library gnomes (they're real, trust me).
So, there you have it!
You're now equipped to navigate the NLB like a seasoned book buccaneer. Remember, the library is your oyster (or maybe your clamshell, depending on your literary taste). So, get out there, explore, and get lost in the wonderful world of books!