Library Cards & Borrowing Information
Renew and reserve library items and check your library record online using My Account.
Who Can Get a Library Card?
The Jamestown Philomenian Library is locally funded by property taxes paid by individuals who live in or own property in Jamestown. Residents and property owners are eligible for a library card at no charge.
To borrow materials, patrons must register for a borrower card. Library cards are issued for three years and expire on the anniversary of the registration date if not renewed. Cards that are free of fines and inactive for two years may be removed from the system.
Patron Types
- Adult: Patrons age 18 or older
- Young Adult: Patrons ages 12–17
- Juvenile: Patrons under age 12 (parent or guardian signature required)
- Non-Resident: Local Use cardholders may borrow materials from the Jamestown Philomenian Library only
How to Get Your Card
- A valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID, or other government-issued ID)
- A second form of identification showing your current address (utility bill, voter registration card, insurance card, or checks with your address)
- Non-resident property owners must provide a current Jamestown tax bill
Lost Cards
- Patrons who lose a card may apply for a replacement by showing valid identification and paying a non-refundable $1.00 fee. Minors must be accompanied by the parent or guardian listed on the account.
- If a lost card is later found, it must be returned to the library or destroyed. Patrons are responsible for all items checked out until the card is reported lost or stolen.
Loan Periods and Borrowing Limits
Most materials may be borrowed for three weeks. Fiction DVDs circulate for one week.
Items are automatically renewed once if:
- The item is renewable
- No other patron has placed a hold
- The account has less than $5.00 in outstanding fines
Placing Holds
Materials may be requested in person, by phone, or online. Patrons will be notified by phone or email when items are ready for pickup, based on their notification preferences.
Renewing Borrowed Items
Items may be renewed in person, by phone, or online. Most items will automatically renew up to two times unless another patron has placed a hold.
A 24/7 telephone renewal line is available at 401-736-0965 or 800-359-3090.
Overdue Notices
- An overdue notice is sent 7 days after the due date
- A second notice is sent 7 days after the first notice
- A billing notice is sent 30 days after the second notice
Failure to receive a notice does not waive responsibility. Patrons are responsible for keeping track of due dates and borrowed materials.
Library Fines
Overdue Materials:
- Books, audiobooks, DVDs, magazines: Fine-free
- Kindles: $5.00 per day
- Museum passes: $5.00 per day
Payment of Fines:
- Cash
- Personal check (exact amount, local bank, valid ID required). Returned checks incur a $25 fee.
- Credit card payments (online or on a library computer; no card machine on site)
Borrower Blocks
Borrowing privileges may be suspended if:
- Outstanding fines total $5.00 or more
- The library cannot verify a patron’s current address
- There is reasonable doubt regarding identity or authorization to use the card
Waiver of Fines and Fees
Library staff may waive or reduce fines when extenuating circumstances apply.
