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Library

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1. Who can get a Library card?

Residents of Gloucester County may register for a card, at no cost. A plastic card may be purchased for a $1 donation to The Gloucester County Friends of the Library. 

Non-Resident

A card may be issued to non-residents based on residency in the Tidewater or Three Rivers areas. The fee for other Virginia Residents is $5 a year. A Library card application must be completed in the presence of a staff member. (Patrons may apply online, but a picture identification must be presented before receiving card.) 

Library Rules

By signing the Library card, the registrant agrees to comply with Library rules and to pay fines or fees that may be incurred for damages or losses of Library materials.

2. What information is needed to get a Library card?

All applicants must present valid identification with a current address and picture identification. A parent or guardian must sign the application form for persons under 18 years of age. In doing so, the parent or guardian accepts responsibility for the minor's use of the Library and agrees to pay fines or fees incurred for damages or losses of Library materials.
Library cards are issued for 1 year and must be renewed. Non-residents will owe a fee at the time of renewal. Library cards may be denied to patrons with a record of abuse of Library privileges.

3. What happens if I lose my Library card?

Lost or stolen Library cards should be reported immediately. All patrons will be charged to replace a lost or stolen card. For more information, call the Library at 804-693-2998.

4. How do I sign up for a computer? Who can use the computers?

Computer users must have a Library card and be in good standing in order to access this service. A parent or guardian will determine if a minor may access the Internet. A parental permission form is required for all minors to access the Internet. Visitors, who do not have a Gloucester County Public Library card, may present photo identification to receive a complimentary 30 minute guest pass.

5. How long can I use a computer?

Library card holders may use a computer for up to 180 minutes per day. Time may be limited when others are waiting. Other restrictions apply. For more information, call the Library at 804-693-2998.

6. Can I check the Library's catalog from home, school or business?

The Library catalog is available online 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. The Library is never closed! The entire collection may be searched, an individual branch collection, or a selected format such as reference works, magazines or children's materials. The "Help" function is available on any page. Access the catalog.

7. How do I check my account? What is my Personal Identification Number (PIN)?

The Library catalog homepage has fields for entering your complete library card number and the PIN. Once entered, your record will show current activity. View the catalog website and access your record. If you do not remember your PIN, please visit the Library for help. ID is required. A PIN cannot be shared over the phone.

8. How do I renew books and other materials I have borrowed?

Materials may be renewed by telephone or through your account. Patron accounts must be in good standing to renew materials. Overdue materials and items that are on hold may not be renewed.

9. How do I get materials when all copies are checked out?

Materials may be placed on hold (for the next available copy) by telephone or through your account. Patrons may designate which Library location the material is to be sent. Patron accounts must be in good standing to checkout holds.

10. Will the Library locate and hold a book for me?

Call the Library at 804-693-2998 to locate an item. Staff will verify that the item is available. Items will be held for three business days. You may also request an item through your account. Display the full record and select the "Request Item" button. Library staff will contact you when the item is available. Patron accounts must be in good standing to checkout holds.

11. How can I get an item that the Library does not own?

The Library has a service to locate and borrow items from other libraries. View the Interlibrary Loan page. Fees apply.

12. Can the Library use volunteers?

Volunteers are welcome and encouraged to contact the Library’s volunteer coordinator.

13. How do I get a job at the Library?

Library staff members are employees of Gloucester County. Openings at the Gloucester County Public Library are posted on the Job Opportunities page of the Human Resources Department website.

14. May I donate books to the Library?

Materials (examples: books, CDs, and DVDs) may be donated to the Gloucester County Friends of the Library. A donation receipt is available. Please note that all materials become the property of the Friends and may not be added to the Library's collection. Library staff cannot appraise materials. Materials damaged by bugs, mold, smoke, or left outside the building will be recycled. Donated materials may be dropped off at the Main Library during regular business hours. Patrons wishing to donate 5 or more boxes must call to make arrangements. Library staff cannot help unload vehicles or carry boxes to sorting areas.

15. Does Library staff proctor exams?

Library staff does not proctor exams.

16. Does the Library offer eBooks and eAudiobooks?

The Library offers eBooks and eAudiobooks from OverDrive and Hoopla. View for more information.

17. Can I use a credit card to pay fines and fees?

Only cash or checks are accepted at this time.

18. Does the Library have tax forms?

Basic Federal forms are available during the tax season. Virginia State tax forms are not available and must be accessed through the Virginia Tax website. Federal tax forms may be accessed through the Internal Revenue Service website.