Frequently Asked Questions
Borrowing and Circulating Information
How can I get a library card?
Visit the Bloomington Public Library or Bookmobile with a photo id and some identification that shows your name and the address where you are living (a letter that came in the mail, a utility bill, a bank statement, a health card, or student ID).
Where can I use my library card?
At the Bloomington Public Library, at many libraries in the surrounding area, including the Normal Public Library. Any library in the Resource Sharing Alliance will also honor your Bloomington Public Library card.
If we don’t have the book you want, you can ask to have it sent from another network library to our library using Interlibrary Loan.
How much does a library card cost?
Your library card is free initially. If you lose it, you will have to pay $2 to replace it.
It does not cost anything to use the Bloomington Public Library if you remember three simple rules:
- get your borrowed books and other materials back on time, or renew them
- return what you borrowed in good condition
- keep track of your library card
How long can I keep the books I borrow?
Most books check out for 21 days (3 weeks), videos and dvds (1 week), audio cassettes and cds (3 weeks) and magazines (2 weeks). Some newer, popular books are due back two weeks from the date of issue. It might be possible to renew these items. Just ask the librarian. If you keep it longer, you will have to pay an overdue fine for each day each item is late.
What if I don't have the money to pay for my overdue books?
Bring them back as soon as you can anyway! The fine stops as soon as the books are back at the Library, even if you don't pay it right away. This gives someone else a chance to use the books. You can pay the fine a little at a time, or all at once when you have the money.
However, your library privileges will be suspended if you owe us more than $10, and you risk being contacted by our collection agency if you owe more than $75.
How many books and other items may I borrow at one time?
Ask the librarian. Some items have limits in order to ensure that the library has enough material for all library users.
What if my dog chews my book?
You are responsible for returning library books and other material in good condition. When a book is damaged you may have to pay for its repair or replacement. Talk to the librarian and explain what happened.
What if I don't finish my book before it is due back at the Library?
Contact the Library and ask to renew it. If no one else is waiting for it, you will be allowed to borrow it a bit longer.
What if I can't find my book to return it?
If a book is overdue for more than 30 days, the computer will think that you are not going to bring it back and will charge you to replace it. If you find the book and bring it back, all you will have to pay are the overdue fines, not the price of the book.
Is it okay to let someone else use my library card?
No! Your library card is yours. If you let your best friend, your older brother, or your coworker borrow something with your library card, you are the one who will be fined if the item is lost, damaged, or overdue. Be sure to report a lost card immediately so that no one else will be able to use it.
Do I have to have my library card with me each time I come to the Library?
Yes. It’s like a club. Your library card identifies you as a privileged member, and you should always carry it with you. You do not usually need your card to look up general information, attend Story Hour, watch a movie, or join in a book discussion, but there may be times when you will be asked to show your library card to use some materials inside the Library. Check with the librarian if you have any questions.
How long is my card good for?
Library cards expire every 2 years. At that time, you will be asked to verify your contact information. Also, be sure to change your address with the library each time you move.