Frequently Asked Questions
Circulation
- How do I get a library card? Adults requesting a library card are required to submit a Photo ID along with acceptable proof of current address: Wisconsin driver's license, canceled mail, or a checkbook. See the Circulation Policy for more information.
- How much are fines? Materials are due on the date stamped or as shown on the patrons receipt. Patrons paying fines for overdue or lost materials shall be issued a written receipt if it is for over $2. A seven-day grace period will follow after the date due, the patron will not be charged during the 7-day grace period.
- What is a grace period? Yes, 7 days after the item is due.
- How long can I keep the items I take out?
Videos, DVD's - 2 days
CD-ROMs - 1 week
B&T Lease collection books, Magazines, Pamphlets, Musical CD's, Outside SCLS Interlibrary Loan, Magazines and Discovery Backpacks - 2 weeks
Fiction, Non Fiction, Books on tape, Teacher Collections - 4 weeks
Reference circulates as marked on the material.
- When I receive a citation from the police department can I return the materials and avoid going to court or paying a fine? Once the information is sent to the police department for city ordnance violation it is out of the library's hands. The police department files the citations and issues a notice to appear in court. If you return your lost materials to the library we will notify the police department. If you received a judgment any fines, etc. owed need to be paid to the Clerk of Courts not the library. The Clerk of Courts than sends the library a check and your record will be cleared of charges for those materials.
Collections and Services
- Can we check out the toys (puppets, etc.)? We have backpack kits with games, puppets, etc. available for checkout. Ask at the children's desk about other items.
- Do you proctor tests? Yes, call the library for details.
- Do you have a service for the homebound, handicapped or someone in a nursing home? Yes, contact the library for details.
- I need something notarized. Do you provide this service? Yes, please call to make an appointment.
- How often do you get delivery of Interlibrary loan materials? We receive delivery 6 days a week.
- Do you have a lost and found? Yes, it is located in the meeting room.
Equipment
- What equipment can I rent from the library?
The library has a sound system, an overhead projector, and projection screen for loan. See the Audiovisual Equipment Rental Policy for more details.
- I've never used a computer. Can the staff teach me?
Limited assistance is provided as time permits. Patrons using the computer should know how to type and use a mouse. We encourage you to check out a book on computers which will help to increase your understanding before you use them.
Friends Group/Volunteering
- Do you have a Friends of the library group? Yes, if you are interested in joining contact Amber Staude <adstaude@gmail.com> .
- How do I volunteer to help at the library? Call or visit the library and ask to speak to the library director.
Literacy
- I have a friend who wants to learn to read. Who do I contact? Call the library at 623-5910 or email us at colpl@scls.lib.wi.us for current Columbus Literacy Council contact information.
Meetings and Programs
- Do you provide babysitting services during meetings/tutoring? No, it is suggested that groups provide their own babysitters during activities at the library.
- We need a speaker for our club. Do you have someone who could come? Yes, contact the library director at 623-5910.
- Do you charge for story hours, summer reading programs and other programs? No, they are free as a public service so join the fun.
- Listing of meetings and programs - Check the calendar on our website or faceboook for upcoming meetings/events.