One free membership card for all Brussels libraries
Members of Dutch-language libraries in Brussels will use the same membership card in all libraries in the network. From 5 September, all rates and loan periods will also be equalised, and membership will be free in every library. At the same time, the libraries will present a new logo and house style.
Public libraries are basic services for residents. Reading, looking up information, borrowing a language course, watching films and listening to music should be nearby and easily available to everyone in this city. Illiteracy, reading decline, fake news, media literacy and longevity are major challenges in our society that public libraries are addressing. It is therefore logical to make libraries as accessible as possible to everyone.
With one single library card, you will be able to visit all Brussels libraries. Rates and loan periods will be the same for all Brusselers. As of now, libraries can communicate their services together. To do so, they now use a recognisable logo and a refreshed house style, which will attract more Brusselers to the library.
To make the libraries more efficient and effective, all 19 Brussels city councils, the Board of Directors of Muntpunt and the college of the Flemish Community Commission VGC approved a cooperation agreement. “Working together in Brussels is not a mission impossible. With the unified regional regulations, we prove that different Brussels authorities can join forces to provide transparent and easily accessible services for the Brusselers. I would like to thank all Dutch-speaking aldermen and alderwomen for this cooperation,” said VGC college member Ans Persoons.
What will change for users?
- All libraries of the network will no longer charge an annual membership fee and lending of all their materials will be free.
- You will be able to borrow 15 items in each library for a period of 3 weeks.
- All rates are very accessible and the same in all Brussels libraries. Those with overdue items will have to pay a charge of 0.05 euros per day.
- You can settle your charges of the library where you made them at any other library in the network.
- The libraries have clear, fresh and recognisable brochures, flyers and websites.
On Thursday, 7 September at 4pm, the regional regulations and regional house style will be festively inaugurated with all stakeholders at Muntpunt.
Practical information
- Date: 07 September 2023
- Time: 4pm-6pm
- Location: Muntpunt
- Important: Media and journalists who would like to participate in this event are kindly asked to confirm their attendance before 6 September 2023 by sending an e-mail to the following address: ddejonge@gov.brussels