What it is
The Virtual Library is a searchable database of a number of private libraries around the country. This means that it is possible to search other peoples' libraries of books, CDs, Music Cassettes and LPs online. Searching can be by author, title, composer, songwriter and a number of of other criteria. When you have found an item that you wish to borrow, a request is made to the owner of the item who will then get in touch with you so that it can be borrowed.

What is in the Virtual Library?
Since the virtual library contains references to many collections of books, CDs, etc the range offered is far greater than that which is usually found in Public Libraries. When an individual has an interest in some topic, that interest is pursued so that a large collection of items may be found about specific subjects. Furthermore, individuals, specialising in their own favourite subjects will frequently keep books for many years, so that they are still available long after such books are out of print or only available (if at all) from second hand book shops. The same will also be true of CDs, Music Cassettes, and LPs.

What are the responsibilities of the Virtual Libary?
The Virtual Library does not of itself own any items at all. The Virtual Library limits itself to providing information to browsers about the contents of people's libraries. The Virtual Library cannot take any repsonsibility for the return of items; this is solely a matter between lender and borrower. The Virtual Library relies on trust and goodwill between lenders and borrowers.

What may I borrow and for how long?
Any book that is listed in the database is available for borrowing provided it has not been lent to someeone else. Generally, a item can be borrowed for as long as the owner is willing; there is no necessity to 'renew' the item at regular intervals. However, some items, are listed as 'Restricted Loan' which means that they may be borrowed only for a limited period. This enables the owner retrieve certain items quickly from those to whom they have been lent. The Virtual Library recommends a period of one week for such items, but this does not preclude another arrangement between lender and borrower.

Do I need to be a lender as well as a borrower?
No. There are two classes of user:

• Borrowers
• Lenders and Borrowers

How do I register?
Fill in the form here.

How do I keep track of books I have borrowed?
All users of the Library need to register before they can borrow. Once registered, a user has his own unique user id and password which is used to enter the Library. In the Members area, it is possible to see:

• All books, CDs, etc which you have borrowed
• From whom they have been borrowed
• The date at which they were borrowed

How do I keep track of books I have lent?
As a lender you will have access to a system which allows you to manage your own library. When a request is made to you for a book or CD, you will need to update that record via the web site to reflect:

• To whom the item has been lent. This is easily noted by selecting from a list of registered users.
• When the book has been lent. The programme that performs this defaults to the current day but this can be altered.

My library is quite small and I am sure no one will be interested in it
You cannot be certain exactly what people will be interested in. It may be that you have books or CDs on some subjects that are not currently represented.

Some of my books in my library are quite valuable. Do I need to list them?
Of course not! As a lender, what you make available to the virtual library is entirely up to you.