Frequently asked questions

Who can use the library?

The library is open to anyone interested in Spanish and Hispanic-American language and culture. It is not necessary to be a member of the library to consult the library's collections. However, to use the loans service, that is, bring items home, it is necessary to be in possession of a loan card.

What are the library’s opening hours?

Monday to Thursday: 11.30am - 7.45pm
Friday and Saturday: 9.30am - 2pm

The library will remain closed the 14th of January 2012.

Summer Opening Hours

The library’s summer opening hours from Friday 1st July until Friday 30th September 2011 were as follows:

Monday - Thursday: 11.30am – 2pm and 3pm – 6.30pm
Friday: 9.30am – 2pm

The library will be closed on Saturdays from June until the middle of October.

The normal Saturday timetable will resume from 15th October onwards.

How can I consult the library’s collections?

In the library’s OPAC system or on the Internet through our web page (Catalogue).

How can I obtain a library loan card?

The loan card is obtained by filling out the enrolment form and subsequent to payment of the annual fee.

How many documents may be borrowed and for how long?

A maximum of 10 documents may be borrowed at any given time:

Books and magazines: 7 items for 3 weeks

Audiovisual materials: 3 items for 3 weeks
(CD, video and DVD)

Can loans be renewed?

Books only may be renewed for the same period of time if there are no previous reservations by other users or if the book is not overdue. Renewal can be carried out in the library, through the library's OPAC on-line, by telephone (+353 1 631-15-15) or by e-mail to bibdub(at)cervantes.es.

CDs/DVDs may not be renewed.

Can I request books from other libraries?

Through the interlibrary loan service, you can ask for documents available in the Instituto Cervantes library network or in other libraries in Spain.

As well as books in Spanish, how can I find books in other languages and in English?

The library has a section of literature in Catalan, Galician and Basque and other Spanish and Hispanic-American literature translated into English. Also, the library has a number of works in English on history, art and culture form different Spanish-speaking countries.

What do I do if I cannot find the information that I am looking for in the library?

The library offers an information service to attend to any consultation related to Spanish and Hispanic-American language and culture. Also, through the inter-library loan and document acquisition system, you can request copies and originals that belong to other libraries or Spanish documentation centres.

Does the library offer training sessions for users?

The library staff is at your disposal to respond to any questions related to the use of the library, access to its collections and the use of its services. Guided visits for groups or institutions are provided with prior appointment. If interested, please contact us by telephone (+353 1 631-15-16) or by e-mail to bibdub(at)cervantes.es