To register as a user or patron in the Bica Network and take advantage of any of the services offered by the libraries participating in the network—such as borrowing, reserving items, online wish lists, etc.—you must have a patron account.

At any library in the network, you will be assigned a reader number and password that will allow you to access and use these services at any of these branches, regardless of where you applied for or processed your account.

If the applicant has not previously been registered in this network—since it is possible that they were previously registered but their registration has expired, or that some of their information has changed—they must apply and complete the registration process, or update their information in any case.

The requirements for obtaining a library card are:

• Provide personal information (first and last names, ID number, date of birth, address, ZIP code, phone number, and email address)
• Data form (to be completed by library staff).

Ever since the current Real Casino de Tenerife was founded in January 1840 at number 4 on the former Plaza de la Constitución—where its founding members used to gather for social gatherings—reading has been a primary objective among the goals set by this Society. As the institution’s prestige has grown, in tandem with the changing society, its remarkable and illustrious library has gradually taken shape to this day, housing on its shelves an extensive collection of books that disseminate culture and knowledge, and which undoubtedly reflects the history of both the institution and Santa Cruz. Enriched over decades through the acquisition of publications from diverse sources, since 1872 librarians such as Mr. Miguel Maffiotte, at the helm of the Library, have been committed to and have urged that proper attention be given to the services offered by the Library to its members, along with the proper management of the collection—
—ensuring its safekeeping and preservation and treasuring works on a wide range of subjects and genres for over a century. Notable works include those from the late 18th century, as well as publications by renowned authors in various languages from the 19th century to the present. Its library collection comprises works of classical literature, fiction and poetry, historiography, art, reference and consultation works, pamphlets, etc. It houses important collections such as the Canarian Collection, the Military and Naval Collection, and the English Club Collection, which preserves outstanding volumes belonging to that eminent, now-defunct society; 19th-century newspapers and magazines, including bound copies of national and foreign newspapers, among others.

The collection of the Real Casino de Tenerife Library consists of approximately 10,000 volumes, which are currently cataloged in the BICA Network (
Canarias Library Network), of which this institution is a member.

Services: On-site reading, study room, computer access, book loans, online catalog via the BICA network, and access to newspapers and magazines.

For any information or questions, please contact the library staff via email at: biblioteca@rctfe.es