Circulation FAQ

How do I find a book?

Check the computer by the author, title or subject. Fiction is shelved alphabetically by the author's last name, then first name, then title. Non–fiction is grouped by subject and is shelved by the call number located above the author and title on the computer entry.

How do I check out items from the library?

You must have a library card. To register, you must show identification with your current address. Children under 15 (or 9th grade) must have a parent or guardian with them. If you live outside East Baton Rouge Parish, ask what may qualify you for a card.

What can I check out?

Books, magazines, music CDs, CDRoms, sculptures, paintings, pamphlets, books on cassette and CD, videos, DVDs and inter-library loan materials.

How long may I keep the materials I check out?

Books, magazines, audio books, music CDs, and CDRoms check out for three weeks and may be renewed three times for a maximum loan period of twelve weeks.  Videos and DVDs checkout out for one week and may be renewed twice for a maximum loan period of three weeks.  Paintings and pieces of sculpture check out for six weeks and may be renewed once for a maximum loan period of twelve weeks.  Items are renewed from the date of renewal-not the original due date.

Is there a limit on the number of items I can borrow?

• A total of fifty items may be checked out on a library card. There is no specific limit on the number of books and magazines.
• The limit on DVD/VHS is 10 from the Adult fiction collection, 10 from the Adult nonfiction collection, 10 from the Young Adult fiction collection, 10 from the Young Adult nonfiction collection, 10 from the Children's fiction collection and 10 from the Children's nonfiction collection.
• The limit on audio books is 10 from the Adult fiction collection, 10 from the Adult nonfiction collection, 10 from the Young Adult fiction collection, 10 from the Young Adult nonfiction collection, 10 from the Children's fictions collection and 10 from the Children's nonfiction collection.
• The limit for music CDs is 10 from the Adult collection and 10 from the Children's collection.
• Patrons may borrow six combined paintings and/or sculptures.

How much are fines on overdue materials?

Five cents per day, per item. The maximum fine is $3.00 per checkout/renewal, per item for adult and young adult materials. The maximum fine is $1.00 per checkout/renewal, per item for children's books. Fines for videos and DVDs are $1.00 per day with a $5.00 maximum per checkout/renewal per item.

How can I renew library materials?

Library materials may be renewed for a limited number of times by phone, mail, online or in person at any East Baton Rouge Parish Library, unless other patrons have reserved items.

May I use my library card at any library branch?

Yes.

What happens if my library card is lost or stolen?

Notify the library immediately. Patrons are responsible for all items checked out on their library cards until the library is notified. A $1.00 fee is charged to replace library cards.