Basic Patron Information

Library Cards Library cards are free and are issued 24 hours after a completed application is submitted.  Loan of Library Materials New Books: 2 weeks New Videos & Magazines: Overnight Books & Magazines: 4 weeks Videos: 1 week

Phyllis, Adult Services Librarian

Inter-Library Loans
We are happy to help you loan books and other material from other libraries. We'll need the title, author and media format to request the material. The period of loan from other libraries depends on their policies. Click the link on the right for more information on how to request an inter-library loan.

Library Equipment
Photocopier
Fax Machine
Laminating Machine
Microfilm Reader/Printer
Computers, Printers and Scanners

Most equipment has a nominal per-page fee to help cover expenses.

Internet Access Policy
Internet resources available in the library are provided to all users on a first-come, first-serve basis during regular business hours, with a one-hour limit per day.

To maximize availability and ensure fair accessibility for all, please follow MCL's Internet policies.  All users must read and sign the Internet Agreement form.  Children under the age of 14 are required to have a parent's or guardian's signature on the form.

We will be glad to assist you in accessing the Internet and will provide any reference materials we have to aid your search; however, the staff cannot provide in-depth training in Internet computer jargon, search strategies or personal computer use. The library does not offer electronic mail accounts.

Library computers may not be used for illegal purposes.  Unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to, harrassing other users; accessing content offensive to other patrons; libeling or slandering other users; destruction of damage to equipment, software or data belonging to the library or other users; disruption; or unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material.  

Do not alter library hardware by installing your own software, attaching other equipment or by saving your personal files on the hard drive.  Floppy disks may be purchased at the Circulation Desk if you wish to save information to take home.

Mercer County Library does not monitor information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for the quality, accuracy or currency of its content.  The Internet is a worldwide community with a highly diverse user population; keep in mind that not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete or current information. It is your responsibility to use this resource wisely and question the validity of the information you find.

Due to the physical layout of of the library, children and adults have access to the same computers in the reference area. Accessing illegal or offensive material will cause loss of all computer privileges.

The library staff is not responsible for information accessed and/or selected by their children on the Internet.  Approval must be provided by a parent or guardian before a child under 14 will be allowed to use the Internet.  Parents are advised to supervise their children's Internet sessions.

Have fun exploring the Internet, but please remember that many times you will find the specific information you need right here--in your library's books and periodicals!

All problems with computers and/or software
should be reported to the staff immediately.