Library FAQ's

Library FAQs: Library FAQ Computer Lab FAQ Interlibrary Loan FAQ NetLibrary FAQ

How do I get a library card? How long may I check out items? How many of each item may I check out? What if I'm not finished with my items? How do I use the library's Internet Catalog to access my account and what is my PIN number? What if I can't make it to the Library and my items are due?

What if my items are overdue? What if the item I want is not available? Can I check out reference material? What does that mean? How do I place a hold on a book online?

How do I get a library card?

All residents of Cole and Osage Counties, ages 5 and up, are eligible for a Library card. Missouri River Regional Library also has reciprocal agreements with Daniel Boone Regional Library, Scenic Regional Library, Heartland Regional Library and Price James Memorial Library in Tipton (see map).

Patrons of these libraries may use MRRL facilities at no charge and in exchange, MRRL patrons may use their facilities. Other Missouri residents may also use MRRL for an annual fee. Currently, the fee is $25 for an individual card and $54 for a family card.

• Applicants age 5 to 17 years must have a parent or legal guardian sign the application.
• Applicants age 18 and up must present an ID (Drivers license, school ID, voter ID, etc.) with current address.

Temporary cards:

• College students attending local universities may obtain a 3-month temporary card with proper student ID.
• State legislators may also apply for a card.

Resident cards expire two years from issue date and are nontransferable. Only YOU may use your Library card. You can also print out a PDF version of the library card application to fill out at home and bring to our Circulation Desk. Please be aware that you will need the ID and current address information when you bring in your completed application. This requires the Adobe Acrobat Reader software, which is freely available on the Internet. Use the button below to download this software.

How long may I check out items?

Books and books on tape, music CDs, cassettes and videos may be checked out for 3 weeks.

How many of each item may I check out?

You may check out as many books as you like. However, other items do have the following limits: Videos/DVDs, Books on CD, Magazines and Music CDs - 6; Walk-in Bestsellers - 2

What if I'm not finished with my items?

You may renew your items by either coming in or calling the circulation desk at 573-634-2464 or 1-800-949-READ, before the due date.

How do I use the Library's Internet Catalog to access my account?

You can click on the MRRL Catalog link, then click on "view your record" to get to your account information. You will be asked for your library card number and a PIN. You can create your PIN in the system the first time you log into your account.

What if I can't make it to the Library and my items are due?

You have several options:

• Renew your items online, using our catalog.
• Call the circulation desk at 573-634-2464 and renew your items over the phone.
• Drop your items off at a drop box or branch location.

What if my items are overdue?

MRRL charges $.20 per day, per item, for overdue items. Until your fines have been paid, you will not be able to checkout or renew items.

What if the item I want is not available?

Whether the item you want is unavailable because it is checked out or because it is at a different library, you can still obtain the item. It may take a little longer. You can place a hold on the item yourself at the public terminals. All you need is your Library card number and your PIN number.

If the item is currently checked out you will be placed on a hold list for the item. It will be held for you while you are notified. If the item is at a different Library, then it will be delivered on the next inter-library delivery. Each patron may place up to 20 items on hold. You will be notified by phone or mail that your item has arrived. Just pick it up at the circulation desk.

Can I check out reference material?

No, sorry. Due to the high demand and cost of the reference collection, this material may not be checked out. You are welcome to make copies using the 2 copiers available on the main floor.

What does that mean?

• Adult-All of these items are located on the main floor.
• Children's-All of these items are located on the second floor in the children's department.
• Juvenile-These books are located on the second floor in the children's department.
• Reference-These special books are all located on the main floor in the reference section. Ask at the reference desk if you need assistance finding these items.
• YA (Young Adult)-Young Adult Fiction has it's own special section on the main floor near the front doors. YA non-fiction is on the main floor mixed in with the adult collections.
• Walk-in Best-Sellers-These popular titles are available only to patrons visiting the Library. Only one book per visit please. The checkout time is 1 week ONLY. Reserves will not be taken.
• Non-Book Items-BT-Book on tape; CD-Compact Disc; V-Video;. These items are available on public display shelving for checkout.

How do I place a hold on a book online?

In the record for the item you would like to reserve, click on the "Place Hold" button. Enter the barcode number from your library card as well as your PIN and choose the location from which you would like to pick up your book. Click on the "Submit Above Information" button to complete the hold.