Zanzibar Library Services Board

Help & Support

We're here to help you make the most of your library experience. Find answers to common questions or contact our support team.

Help Categories

Account Help

Get help with your library account, membership, passwords, and online access.
How do I become a library member?

To become a member of Zanzibar Library, you can visit any of our branches with a valid ID and proof of address. Membership is free for all residents of Zanzibar. You'll need to fill out a registration form and we'll issue your library card immediately.

I forgot my password. How can I reset it?

You can reset your password by clicking on the "Forgot Password" link on the login page. You'll receive an email with instructions to create a new password. If you don't receive the email, please check your spam folder or contact our support team.

What are the membership benefits?

As a member, you can borrow books, access our digital resources, reserve study spaces, attend exclusive events, and get discounts on library programs. Members also receive our monthly newsletter with updates on new arrivals and events.

Borrowing & Returns

Information about loans, renewals, returns, fines, and reservations.
How many books can I borrow at once?

Regular members can borrow up to 5 items at a time, including books, audiobooks, and DVDs. Students and teachers may borrow up to 10 items with valid identification.

What is the loan period for books?

Most books can be borrowed for 3 weeks. Some high-demand items may have shorter loan periods of 1 week. You can renew items up to 2 times if there are no holds on them.

Are there late fees for overdue items?

We charge a small daily fee for overdue items to encourage timely returns. The fee is TZS 500 per item per day. Fees are capped at TZS 5,000 per item. You can check your due dates by logging into your account.

Research Help

Assistance with finding materials, using databases, and research skills.
Can librarians help with my research?

Absolutely! Our reference librarians can help you find resources, develop search strategies, and locate materials for school projects, academic research, or personal interests. You can get help in person, by phone, or through our online chat service.

Do you have access to academic journals?

Yes, we provide access to numerous academic databases covering various subjects. These include JSTOR, EBSCOhost, ProQuest, and more. Some databases are only available on-site at our Main Library and Regional Centers.

Can I request materials from other libraries?

Through our interlibrary loan service, we can attempt to borrow materials from other libraries in Tanzania and internationally. There may be fees for this service depending on the lending library's policies.

Digital Resources

Help with e-books, online databases, and digital library services.
How do I access e-books and online journals?

You can access our digital collection through our website by logging in with your library card number and password. We offer thousands of e-books, audiobooks, academic journals, and magazines through various platforms like OverDrive, JSTOR, and PressReader.

Can I access library resources from home?

Yes! Most of our digital resources are available 24/7 from anywhere. Some academic databases may require you to be on-site at one of our branches. Check each resource's details for access information.

What devices can I use to read e-books?

Our e-books are compatible with most devices including smartphones, tablets, e-readers (like Kindle), and computers. Some platforms have dedicated apps for better reading experiences. Visit our Digital Resources page for specific app recommendations.

Library Services

Information about facilities, programs, and special services.
Do you have study spaces available?

Yes, all our branches offer quiet study areas and some have private study rooms that can be reserved. The Main Library in Maisara also has group study rooms equipped with whiteboards and presentation screens.

Is there WiFi available in the library?

Free WiFi is available in all our branches. Connect to "ZLSB-Public" network. No password is required for basic access. Library members can get higher speed access by logging in with their library credentials.

Do you offer printing and photocopying services?

Yes, we provide printing, photocopying, and scanning services at all branches. Black & white copies cost TZS 200 per page, color copies are TZS 500 per page. You can pay with cash or mobile money.

Events & Programs

Support for website issues, app problems, and technical questions.
How can I find out about upcoming events?

You can check our Events Calendar on the website, sign up for our email newsletter, or follow us on social media (@ZanzibarLibrary). We also post monthly event schedules at all our branches.

Do I need to register for events?

Some events require registration due to limited space, while others are drop-in. Event details will specify if registration is needed. You can register online, by phone, or in person at any branch.

Are there events for children?

Yes! We offer regular storytimes, reading clubs, homework help, and seasonal programs for children of all ages. Visit our Children's Corner page or ask at your local branch for the current schedule.

Contact Library Support

Phone Support

Speak directly with a library staff member during business hours

+255 24 223 0123

Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Email Support

Send us your questions and we'll respond within 24 hours

help@zanzibarlibrary.org

Live Chat

Chat with a librarian in real-time during business hours

In-Person Help

Visit any of our branches for assistance at the help desk

Find a Branch Near You

Social Media

Connect with us on social media for quick questions

Feedback Form

Share your suggestions, comments, or concerns with us

Submit Feedback

Library System Maintenance Notice

Our online catalog and account systems will be unavailable on July 15, 2025 from 10:00 PM to 2:00 AM for scheduled maintenance. We apologize for any inconvenience. During this time, you can still visit our branches for assistance.