Longer weekday opening hours coming to Stafford Library from 7 April

Stafford Library is set to offer longer weekday opening hours from Tuesday 7 April 2026, as its new self-access system fully comes into use.

The change means the library will be open from 8am to 8pm on weekdays, although part of that time will be through self-access rather than staffed service.

How the new hours will work

The confirmed opening hours shown at Stafford Library are:

Monday to Friday

• Self-access: 8am to 10am

• Staffed hours: 10am to 5pm

• Self-access: 5.15pm to 8pm

Saturday

• Staffed hours: 9am to 4pm

Sunday

• Staffed hours: 1pm to 4pm

  
  

So in practice, weekday users will have access to the building for up to 12 hours a day.

What happens at 5pm

One important detail is that the staffed session and evening self-access session are separate.

That means the library will close at 5pm at the end of staffed hours, and people inside will need to leave the building. Anyone wanting to use the library during the evening self-access period will then need to re-enter using their library card and PIN from 5.15pm.

What self-access means

Self-access allows registered members to use Stafford Library even when staff are not in the building.

After a short induction, members can use their library card and PIN to enter during self-access hours.

Staffordshire County Council says people can still use a range of services during those unstaffed periods, including:

• borrowing books

• returning and renewing items

• collecting reserved books

• using public computers

• printing and photocopying

• accessing library Wi-Fi

• Who can use it

The council says self-access membership is available to people aged 16 and over. Anyone under16 can still use the library during self-access hours, but only if they are accompanied by a parent, guardian or carer over 18 who is a self-access member.

To join, people need to:

• already be a library member, or join first

• complete a short induction

• agree to follow the self-access rules and safety guidance

What will not be available

Because staff will not be present during self-access sessions, some services will not be available.

That includes:

• general enquiries

• changing membership details

• help with self-service kiosks or public computers

• access to public toilets

A big change for regular users

For many people, the biggest benefit will be flexibility.

Earlier morning access could help commuters, students and anyone wanting a quieter start to the day, while evening access could make it easier for people to visit after work.

Rather than only using the library in traditional staffed hours, self-access gives members a lot more choice about when they go.

How to join self-access

People who want to become self-access members can:

email connectedlibraries@staffordshire.gov.uk

call 01785 278351 during Stafford Library opening hours

ask a member of staff at Stafford Library