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Answers to Your Library Questions

Find out what you need to know about using your account, borrowing materials and using computers at the Library.

General Book Questions

What should I read next?

The staff has collected hundreds of titles that may interest you on the booklist page. You can also always ask your friendly librarian.

Be sure to contact us if you don't find the answer you want!

Account Questions

How can I find out what books are checked out to me?

Can't remember if you returned your book or want to see what else you have checked out?
Check your library account here.

How can I renew and extend my due date?

Is your book due soon, but you're not finished reading it? Renew your book and get the extra time you need without getting late charges.
Renew your book here.

Borrowing Questions

How can I get a library card?

Even newborn babies may be signed up to get a library card. Children under the age of 17 need to have their parents sign them up at the circulation desk for a card. Your parent should have valid identification with them.

How many books may I borrow?

You may check out 20 items per library card.

How many CDs may I borrow?

You may check out 10 music CDs per library card.

How many DVDs may I borrow?

You may check out 5 total DVDs. These can be all family DVDs or a mixture of adult DVDs and children's DVDs.

How many audiobooks may I borrow?

You may borrow 5 audiobooks per library card.

Can I borrow Video Games?

Youth Services has just added a new collection: Wii video games! These games will be shelved on the top of the DVD shelf closest to the Youth Services Reference Desk.

• Patrons in Tompkins County can place holds on up to 5 items
• Wii video games have a loan period of 7 days
• You can not renew Wii video games

Computer Questions

May I use the computers at the library?
People of all ages with a library card may use the early learning computers, which feature educational games.

Children ages 8-13 may use the children's internet computers if they have a valid library card and internet permission from their parent or guardian on file.

Teens ages 14-17 may use the teen internet computers if they have a valid library card and internet permission from their parent or guardian on file. Teens ages 14-17 may also use the adult computers.

What types of programs and software are available on the Youth Services Computers?
The Youth Services computers offer Microsoft Office programs, the Internet, and several educational games.

Please visit the computer services webpage for general information about using the Library's computers. For specific programs and software currently available on the Library's Youth and Teen computers, visit tcpl.org/services/computers.php#youth.

May I print from the children's internet computers?
A print card is needed to print from any Library Computer. You can purchase a print card from the print-card vending machine located by the Adult Services Reference Desk. The cost for a card is $1.00. Ask a staff person working on the Youth Reference Desk and we'll be happy to help!