The library is a common user-space for learning and reading. With more than three million visitors frequenting our public libraries monthly, it is our key priority to ensure all library users are able to enjoy a pleasant reading environment, be it for library research purposes or self-study.

Students and members of public can use the tables for self-study at all our public libraries. Within the Reference Section of the larger regional libraries, some tables are set aside for reference users who need to consult the library materials. The rest of the seats are open for other users.

We would however like to highlight that priority for seats is still given to users who access, browse and use library resources. We reserve the right to ask users who are not using library materials to give up their seats to others who wish to do so. As there are limited seats during peak hours, seats are available on a first-come-first-served basis. We seek our users' cooperation that the reservation of seats is not allowed.

For self-study, you may wish to use the Study Lounge at level 5 of the National Library Building, or school libraries and study centres at Community Centres.

Photography or filming in the library is strictly not permitted unless permission is obtained in writing from the library management.

As the ringing of mobile phones and private telephone conversations cause disturbance to other patrons in the library, we have restricted the use of mobile phones to outside the library.

Reading rooms are strictly for the consultation of our reference materials.

Before entering the National Library's reading room areas, patrons are requested to leave their bags (except handbags smaller than 297mm x 210mm x 100mm) at the self-service lockers available at Levels 7 to 11 of the National Library Building. Only blank sheets of paper and writing materials may be brought into the Library areas.

Our Security Guards may request users to open their bags for inspection before entering and leaving the Library areas if they are not deposited in the lockers.

Any materials and objects that may cause damage to our library materials (for example, food, drinks, scissors, knives, highlighter pens, adhesive tape, glue, etc.) should be duly deposited in the lockers, which are provided free of charge.