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I got there in the end

Yes, today, I was a good girl, and joined my local library. I've not been a public library member since my university days, and I'm still unlikely to actually use it (and I've explained why before), but having options is always a good thing.

And the thing that finally made me join? Well, they made it so damn easy to do! I didn't even have to go in to the library to do it (too busy on week nights, and likely to be the last thing that occurs to me at a weekend, if I'm not running around then too). I just had to go to their website, fill in this form (either do it online or print it out), and save it and email it (or post it) to them. Simples! Yay for Edinburgh City Libraries!

The card should be posted to me when it's processed, I also signed up to get email alerts about library events, and overdue notices (although as a good librarian I would never get any of those. Honest. Though I would be in good company if I did), so maybe that'll prompt me to actually go visit.

Someday.

Comments

Abigail said…
You're better than I am--I work daily at the public library and always have fines
Kel said…
I did that too... and never actually received a card through the post, or was able to get any sensible response out of them. Ended up having to go into the library to fill out a form the old-fashioned way.

The email alerts for when your books are about to go overdue are very good though!

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