Frequently Asked Questions - Borrowers' Information |
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| How do I get a Library Card? |
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Hurst Public Library cards are free of charge to all residents of the state of Texas (temporary Internet Cards are available for out-of-state residents, but provide Internet access privileges only). To register for a card, fill out an application in person at the library (must be filled out, in full, in the presence of library staff) and provide valid identification and proof of residence (application data must match identification and residence information). Registrants under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian signature. |
| Is there more than one kind of Library Card? |
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Yes. Youth Cards require additional application information to be filled out at registration, which includes parental access options and requires a parent or legal guardian signature. Internet Cards, intended for out-of-state residents, are temporary cards and are limited to Internet Services only. TexShare Cards offer access to all participating libraries, and therefore follow a different set of rules. For more information about TexShare Cards, see our Circulation Policy, or the TexShare website. |
| What if I lose my Library Card? |
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You are liable for all materials borrowed on your card. This includes any use of your card by persons other than yourself. It is therefore important to immediately report missing, mislaid, or stolen cards in person. Until this is done and only if a new I.D. number is requested, you will continue to be liable for materials borrowed on your card. Lost cards may be replaced for a $1.00 charge. There is no charge to renew an existing card when presented. |
| What are my responsibilities as a Borrower? |
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Patrons must present a valid Hurst Public Library card at time of check-out to remove materials from this Library. Without your card, if you have a valid card with a clear record on file, you may borrow materials with a valid photo I.D. that matches your current library account information. It is thus important to report address or telephone changes immediately so your account information is always current. As a Library card-holder, you accept responsibility for the materials you borrow, and assure that they will be returned before the due date noted on your check-out receipt. You also accept responsibility for fines and fees on your account. See the Hurst Public Library Circulation Policy for more information.
Note: Hurst Public Library is not responsible for claims or damage to a patron's equipment due to use of Library materials, including but not limited to: audio tapes, video tapes, PlayAways, DVDs, CDs or software. |
| Is my library account information confidential? |
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Yes. Information about your library account is private and available only to you unless written permission grants access to someone else beforehand. This applies to the accounts of Youth Cards, which are accessible by parents or legal guardians if permitted on the Youth Card Application.
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| How do I borrow library materials? |
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Library Cards must be presented each time materials are borrowed. Borrower transactions take place in person at the Library Circulation Desk, and a receipt is given declaring the due dates for materials borrowed. |
| Is there a limit to how many items I can borrow at one time? |
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Answer: |
Yes. For new Library Card applicants, three items of material may be borrowed. This limit will be removed when the items are returned. Other restrictions apply for non-Texas residents, or to materials based on demand. DVDs, Magazines, PlayAways, and Graphic Novels are limited to 5 items at a time for all resident borrowers. |
| How long is the loan period for library materials? |
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Answer: |
-For Videocassettes, DVDs, Magazines, Graphic Novels, and materials in Special Collections, the loan period is 1 week.
-For General Collection Books, PlayAways, Audiocassettes, and CDs, the regular loan period is 3 weeks. Loan periods may be extended by renewal. See below for more information about materials renewal. |
| How do I return library materials? |
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In the interest of all Library users, borrowed materials should be returned within the time limits set by the Library. Materials can be returned during regular Library hours at the Circulation Desk, or by depositing them into either of two deposit boxes. One deposit box is located inside the Library, while the other is a drive-thru deposit box available 24/7 on the West side of the building. They are labeled on our Floorplan.
Note: DO NOT put money in returned overdue materials. Any overdue charges will be recorded, and you may pay the next time you are in the library. |
| Can I renew materials I have borrowed before they are due? |
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Answer: |
Yes. Library materials may be renewed two times if the material is not on a reserve list. Requests for renewal can be taken by telephone during Library hours, or online through your library account until midnight of the date an item is due. |
| Can I reserve library materials? |
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Yes. If material you need has been checked out of the Library, you may leave a reserve request for it either in person at the Library or online through your library account. Please pick up your reserve material as soon as you are notified. |
| What if the library doesn't have what I need? |
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InterIibrary Loan services are available. If the Hurst Public Library does not own the title you want, the Library may be able to borrow it, if available, from another library. Please inquire at the Reference Desk for more information about Interlibrary Loans, or see the Hurst Public Library Interlibrary Loan Policy. |
| How will I know that I have overdue library materials? |
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As a courtesy, the Library mails overdue notices to borrowers who are late in returning materials. If you have a problem with your account, please contact or visit the Library. We will be happy to discuss any problems with you. |
| How much are overdue fines and other library service charges? |
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Answer: |
| In accordance with a directive from the City Council, the following fees are charged: |
| Lost Library Card Replacement |
$1.00 |
| Census Film |
$ Rental Cost |
| Interlibrary Loan |
$.50 |
| Lost or Damaged Materials |
Cost plus $5.00 non-refundable
processing fee plus overdue charges |
| Deposit for Special Collection Loan |
Cost plus $11.00 service charge -
refund on return of item, forfeited if lost. |
| Missing CD Booklet |
$2.00 |
| Missing A/V Cases |
$2.00 |
| Media Bags |
$1.00 |
| Automation Card |
$1.00 |
| Torn Pocket |
$.50 |
| Overdue Charges |
$.25 per day, per item |
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All borrowed materials are due on the date printed on the receipt. Fines will be charged per item, per day, including closed days and holidays.
The maximum fine for overdue materials in $6.00 per item.
Note: Accumulated fines of $10.00 or more will result in the loss of Library privileges until charges are paid. See the Hurst Public Library Circulation Policy for more information. |
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| Can I reserve meeting rooms at the library? |
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Answer: |
Yes. The Hurst Public Library Meeting Rooms were designed to be used for Library programs. As a service to the community, when they are not being rented for Library programs or activities, Library meeting rooms are available for rental by the public for civic, cultural or educational programs or meetings. Use of the meeting room does not constitute an endorsement of the views of the user of the room by the City of Hurst. For more information, see the Hurst Public Library Room Rental Policy. |
| Who can I call with more questions? |
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