Frequently Asked Questions
Below we have compiled answers to many of our most asked questions. Browse the list to learn more about how to use your library. If you still have questions, feel free to contact us.
Borrowing
How do I get a library card?
Return a completed library card application along with any required documentation to the front desk of the library. Please visit the Get a Library Card page for full information and to download an application.
How long can I borrow items?
| ITEM | LIMIT | LOAN PERIOD |
|---|---|---|
| DVDs | 4 | 7 Days |
| Video Games | 4 | 7 Days |
| Regular Collection | 30 | 14 Days |
| Audio Books | 5 | 14 Days |
How much are library late fees?
| ITEM | FINE | MAXIMUM FINE / FEE |
|---|---|---|
| Books |
10¢ / Day |
$4.00 |
|
Audio Books, CDs, DVD’s, & Blueray |
$1.00/Day | $4.00 |
| Sports Equipment, Video Games, Board Games, & reading kits | $5.00 / Day | $20.00 |
| Damaged / Lost Items | — | Cost of the item |
How do I view my account online?
Visit the online catalog and enter your library account number and phone number in the upper right corner. NOTE: You may not be able to log in if your account has expired or you have not updated your contact information with us. Please contact us if you experience trouble logging in.
I lost my card! What should I do?
If your card is lost or stolen, please call us so that we may suspend your account to prevent items being checked out in your name.
If you wish to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged library card, please visit the front desk of the library along with the photo ID of the cardholder (or guardian in the case of cardholders under the age of 19).
Requests
How do I place a reserve on an item that’s checked out?
Log in to your account through our online catalog using your library card number and phone number.
Search for the item you wish to reserve in the catalog. Click the item to view the full record. There will be several buttons on the record. Click the one that says “Reserve this item” and you will be prompted to choose how you wish to be notified when your reserved item is available.
You can check the status of a reserve or cancel it by viewing the “Reserves/Requests” tab of your library account.
Can I request an item that the library doesn’t own?
Yes, though the library makes no guarantee that requested items will be purchased for the collection.
To make a request, log in to your account via our online catalog and click the “Reserves/Requests” tab. Complete the request form and your suggestion will be delivered to us for consideration. If the item you requested is purchased for the collection, it will be reserved for you and you will be notified when it is available to be picked up.
Can the library borrow a book from another library for me?
When you make a book request (via our online catalog or directly to a staff member) you may opt to have us request the materials from another West Virginia library As an inter-library loan. Please note, we cannot guarantee that all ILL requests can be fulfilled.
Services
Do you make copies, send faxes, etc.?
The library provides copy/printing, faxing, and other services for a fee. See the chart below for more information. Please note: the library does not provide notary public or test proctoring services.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Copies / Printing (Black & White) | $0.25 / page |
| Copies / Printing (Color) | $0.35 / page |
| Faxing | $1.00 / page |
| Scanning (Save to flash drive or send to e-mail) | $0.25 |
| Laminating (Full Page 8 1/2″ x 11″) | $1.00 / page |
| Laminating (Card Size) | $0.50 |
| Notary Public | $3.00 / stamp |
| Earbuds for Purchase | $2.00 / pair |
Does the library have public computers and/or wifi access?
Yes. The library has a public computer lab on the lower floor of the building. To use a public computer, be sure to bring photo identification or your library card with you. Black and white printing is available in the lab at a rate of $0.25 per page. Color printing is also available at a rate of $0.35 per page, as long as you are willing to either email us the files, or bring them in on a flash drive. Patrons who wish to access the library’s wireless network may request a guest pass at the staff desk on either floor. The library does not offer wireless printing at this time. A library staff member will be happy to help you transfer files from your device to a library computer in order to print them.
Donations / Volunteering
Do you accept book donations?
Yes, but please read our Donation Guidelines and call us to ensure we are currently accepting donations before bringing items to the library. We reserve the right to decline any donations.
How do I make a monetary donation to the library?
The Library welcomes monetary donations. Your donations to the Library, a non-profit organization, are tax-deductible. Proper documentation can be provided upon request. There are several options for making a monetary donation to the library. Check and credit/debit donations are accepted at the front desk of the library. You may send donations in the form of a check by mail to the following address:
Princeton Public Library
920 Mercer Street
Princeton, WV 24740
For your safety, cash and debit/credit donations are only accepted in person at the front desk of the library.
Can I volunteer at the library?
Thanks for your interest in volunteering! Our volunteer needs change throughout the year. We accept teen and adult volunteers to assist with a variety of library duties.
Other Questions
Do you offer computer assistance?
We are happy to assist with computer and other electronic devices by appointment. We ask that you contact us to set up an appointment for one-on-one assistance with a library staff member.
I’m an author. Will you buy my book?
You are welcome to contact us with more information. We will consider your book for inclusion in our collection, but make no guarantee that we will purchase it.
Do you offer tax assistance?
No. Library employees can help you locate and print tax forms and instructions, but are not able to offer any assistance or advice regarding state or federal taxes.