FAQs
1. How do I become a member?
Joining your local Idea Store or library is easy and FREE.
2. Where is my nearest Idea Store or library?
There is an Idea Store or library near you.
3. How do I renew my books?
You can check your borrower information and renew items on loan via the Online Catalogue.
4. I want to use a computer; how do I book one and what facilities are there?
There are three ways in which you can book a computer.
Idea Stores and libraries have a number of facilities available including free Wifi and a range of accessible equipment for users with particular needs.
5. I am unable to get to an Idea Store or library. Can I still become a member?
Yes you can become a member. Idea Stores have a Home Delivery Library Service. Becoming a member also gives you access to our 24 Hour Library.
6. I have lost my library card. How do I get a replacement card?
You will need to go to your local Idea Store or library with proof of your name and address and speak to a member of staff. A small charge will apply.
7. My child needs help with homework, where can we go?
Idea Stores run Homework Clubs that you can attend.
Idea Stores have a range of online encyclopaedias and dictionaries that you can access from our PCs or from home.
8. I have just become a member, what activities can I get involved in?
Idea Stores run a wide range of regular and special activities for adults and children.
9. Where can I get a copy of your Course Guide?
You can pick up a Course Guide in a person at your local Idea Store or library and at one of the Idea Store learning centres.
You can also download a pdf copy of the Course Guide from the Idea Store website.
10. I know which course I want to do, how can I enrol?
You can enrol in person or over the phone.
11. Do you have any crèche facilities available?
If your child is aged between six months and five years old, you may be interested in using the crèches at the Idea Store Whitechapel and the Shadwell Centre.
12. I am doing some research and need to find some in-depth information. Who can help me?
Idea Stores have a number of Reference and Information Services for different types of enquiries.
13. Are there any reference materials that I can access from home?
If you are a member of Idea Stores, you can access our 24 Hour Library which holds online encyclopaedias and dictionaries.
You can also access our Information Gateway which has links to trustworthy websites.
14. What Newspapers and Magazines do you hold?
Idea Stores take a wide range of Newspapers and Magazines. If you are an Idea Store member you can access some newspapers online. These services are FREE to use.
The Local History Library and Archive Service also hold Newspaper and Magazines.
15. I want to research my family history. Where do I begin?
The Local History Library and Archive Service will assist you in researching your family history.
You could also look at our Discover your Family History page.
If you are an Idea Store member you can access Ancestry.
16. I have seen some photographs on your Digital Gallery. How can I get copies?
Photographic copies can be obtained from Tower Hamlets Local Studies and Archives (there is a charge for this service) or a maximum of 5 digital copies can be emailed to you. If you would like to use the images for publication or display please contact us at ideastore@towerhamlets.gov.uk
17. How do I contact an Idea Store Manager?
You can contact an Idea Store Manager in person at their Idea Store, in writing, by email or by telephone. You can find their details on our Idea Store Contact Information page.
18. How do I apply for a job at Idea Stores?
If you are interested in working for Idea Stores, you should look out for adverts as they appear in the Council's weekly paper, East End Life and on the Council's web site.
Only application forms in response to advertised vacancies will be considered.
19. I would like to arrange an Idea Store Tour. How do I do this?
First you would need to decide what sort of tour you would like by choosing from one of these options. Then you will need to contact Sergio Dogliani, Deputy Head of Idea Stores at Sergio.Dogliani@towerhamlets.gov.uk to discuss the arrangements.
20. How do I hire a learning lab?
Details of the Learning Labs at each store can be found on our Room Hire page.
21. I am a local teacher, can I bring my class to our local Idea Store or library?
Teachers can arrange class visits to Idea Stores.
FAQs About How Idea Stores Are Organised and Managed
Administration and Maintenance - includes the annual budget and staffing structure.
Stock - includes stock take figures and number of items borrowed.
Visitors - includes visitor numbers and Idea Store membership.
