Why should I join the NLB (National Library Board)?
...and how do I become a member?
Answer
The National Library Board (NLB) of Singapore provides a very impressive range of digital and physical resources free to citizens and library members.
Unfortunately, the physical branches are temporarily closed during Circuit Breaker and Phase 1. However, you can still access their amazing collection of digital audiobooks and ebooks.
Foreigners with a SingPass can register for NLB library membership online via this link:
https://account.nlb.gov.sg/spfregister
A one-time registration fee of $10.50 and an annual foreign membership fee of $42.80 are payable.
Follow these instructions to install the Overdrive App when you have your username and password.
The following information is applicable when the library branches reopen:
Foreigners can register for NLB library membership in person at any public library (except the library@chinatown, Choa Chu Kang Public Library and The LLiBrary). The registrant's FIN card, with a minimum of 3 months validity, is required for verification.
A listing of all NLB libraries’ locations and opening hours can be viewed at this link: <http://www.nlb.gov.sg/VisitUs.aspx>. For libraries without a service counter, the registrant may approach the roving staff for assistance.
A one-time registration fee of $10.50 and an annual foreign membership fee of $42.80 are payable. The payment can be made by NETS, CashCard or EZ-Link card, as all library transactions are cashless.
Foreign registrants who are PAssion card holders at the point of library membership registration may enjoy a waiver of the registration fee, if registration is made at a public library with staff assistance. The PAssion card is required for verification.
Waiver of the $10.50 registration fee can only be reviewed if the registrants approach the staff for assistance to register/renew their library membership. The PAssion card is required for verification.
Please note that PAssion card holders are unable to obtain a waiver of the $42.80 membership annual fee.
Renewal of NLB library membership has to be made in person at a public library.
More details about library membership and borrowing privileges can be found at this link: <https://www.nlb.gov.sg/Visit/GettingOriented/Membership.aspx>