Prairie River Library District

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. How long can I check out books, movies, audio books, etc.?

Please remember that you are responsible for all items checked out on your card.

Check-out periods:
   Books - 4 weeks
   New Books & Best-sellers - 2 weeks
   Audios (CD & cassette) - 2 weeks
   Movies (VHS & DVD) - 1 week (subject to overdue fines)

   Our staff does not restrict what children check out without specific instructions from parents, nor is internet access monitored or filtered.  Parents who wish to restrict what their children check out or view on the internet should accompany or send someone with their child for that purpose. 

2. Can I renew an item?

Items may be renewed, provided you have no fines, fees, or overdues, and there are no other requests for the item.

3. What if I am late getting my item back to the library, or if an item is damaged in my care?

Overdues & Fines: 
   All of our libraries now charge overdue fines for all video/audio items and story kits at $1.00 per day per item, up to a maximum fine of $7.50/item.  For all books and other items, the charge is $.15 per day per item, with a $4.50 per item maximum.   

Lost or Damaged Items:
   You will be charged the full cost of any lost or damaged items, plus an additional processing fee for items that must be reordered.  If the items is then found within 30 days after you've paid for it, and it is returned undamaged, it is possible to receive a refund.

4. My library is closed and I want to request a book to read, how can I do that?

Our libraries belong to the VALNet system.  Go to http://www.valnet.org/, here you can locate and request books, have them sent to your library, renew and view your account.  The new "Book Bag" feature also allows patrons to keep a list of books they want to request at a later time.  You will need your VALNet card number in order to request items and/or view your account.

5. Can I down load audio books to my computer and MP3 player?

No problem... go to  create your account, search the data base, download and you will have your book to listen to.  If you should have any questions, don't hesitate to call your librarian and ask for assistance.

6. I would like to volunteer at my local library, who should I contact?

If you are interested in volunteering for your local library, contact the librarian or drop in and they will be more than happy to let you know when, where and how.

7. I have a lot of books, paperback and hardback as well as other items. Can I donate them to a library of my choice?

Donated Items Policy:
   Your donated items will go where they are needed the most.  Most will be placed in a booksale to help raise money for the libraries.  Keep in mind that, like you, we also must remove items from our collection from time to time.  The space and time needed to deal with them are limited, so we cannot accept items in poor condition or which are unlikely to see.  Items deemed a good addition to the collection will be cataloged and shelved at one or our branches, not necessarily the one where the item was donated.
   We make ever effort to provide a balanced, up-to-date collection in good condition for all ages, one that includes popular fiction, non-fiction in a wide range of subjects, classics, reference materials, and other items which will serve the needs and varied interests of all patrons throughout our district. 
   To help defray the substantial cost of purchasing, cataloging, processing, and maintaining our collection, we are happy to accept donations in good condition.

8. I have heard of Friends of the Library, how can I become a member and be of service to my library?

Friends of the Library are volunteers from the community who have come together to help with library activities, growth, fund raising and general support of the library.  If you are interested in becoming a Friend of the Library or have any suggestions or ideas to further the Library's goals, please call or contact any of the Library and they will gladly put you in contact with their Friends group.