How do I check out materials?
Take your materials and your library card to the circulation desk. The librarian will scan the barcodes on your card and the books, tapes or videos. When all the items are scanned, you will receive a list of all your borrowed materials and when they are due, similar to a receipt at the grocery store. The receipt helps you remember when to return your materials on time.

 

Self Checkout Station
We also offer a Self-Checkout Station in the Children’s area.  Adult books may also be checked out at this station.  Scan the barcode of your library card, and then follow the simple directions to checkout your materials.  DVDs and PlayAways must be checked out at the Main Desk because library staff must unlock the cases.  When you press DONE, a receipt is printed and you may exit the building.

 

How many items may I check out?
There is no limit on the number of books you may check out. Videos and DVDs are limited to four per household.  If you’re visiting with a school class, your teacher may limit the number of books you check out for that particular visit.

 

You may check out anything in the library except:
~Reference materials for in-house use only
~The most recent issue of a magazine
~Videos or DVDs, if you are under 18.  These must be checked out on an adult card.

 

What if the book I want is checked out or at another library?
We’ll reserve it or request it for you! Your book can even be sent to another library if it’s more convenient for you.

 

What if I forget my card?
You may still check out books if you have some acceptable identification. If you have lost your card, a replacement may be purchased for $1.00.

 

May I renew my borrowed materials?
You may renew your books and tapes for two more borrowing periods if no one else has a reserve on it. You may even renew items by phone or online at http://catalog.lancasterlibraries.org. Videos may not be renewed.

 

How long may I keep materials?
• Books and Audiobooks (on cassette, CD or PlayAway) may be borrowed for two weeks. They may be renewed twice. New and high-demand books may be borrowed for one week. They may be renewed twice if there are no holds on the title.
• Magazines may be borrowed for two weeks and also be renewed.
• Movies (VHS or DVD) may be borrowed for one week. These may not be renewed.

 

Overdue Fines:
$0.20 a day for Adult and YA books and audios with a maximum fine of $6 per item
$0.10 a day for Children's books and audios with a maximum fine of $4 per item
$1.00 a day for Videos and DVDs with a maximum fine of $10 per item

 

Where do I return materials?
When the library is open, please return books to the end of the circulation desk marked RETURNS HERE. If the library is closed, use the book drop located in side wall to the left of the entrance. You may also return your books at any of the public libraries or Bookmobile in the Library System of Lancaster County.