Frequently Asked Questions
REFERENCE AND RESEARCH HELP
How can I get a reference question answered if I’m not at the library? Do you answer reference questions via e-mail?
Yes. You may call Information Services at 252-335-7536 or e-mail the Community Engagement Coordinator, Iisha Hill, at ihill@earlibrary.org, if you have a short factual question. If you need more extensive assistance, the Community Engagement Coordinator will be glad to help you when you visit the library.
FINDING MATERIAL
How do I find a book?
All items (including books, DVDs, and sound recordings) can be found by searching our online catalog. Also, please feel free to ask the Library Staff for assistance in locating the materials you need.
LOCATED ON THE 1ST FLOOR
Children’s books, Fiction, Audio Visuals, Large Print Books, and New Releases
LOCATED ON THE 2ND FLOOR
Teen books, Non-Fiction, Periodicals, Reference, Biographies, and Local History
Can I obtain magazine articles and e-journals online?
Yes, but databases are available only to Library cardholders. Users can access electronic databases to search full text articles from journals on-site or remotely from school, home or office. You must go to the Library’s homepage and click on Databases/EBooks.
LIBRARY CARDS
How do I get a library card?
Adults and Teens:
A library card is free to any citizen who lives in the East Albemarle Regional Library System (Pasquotank, Camden, Currituck, and Dare). If you do not live in one of the four counties you must pay a bi-annual fee of $15.00 to obtain a library card. In order to get a card you must furnish identification ( e.g. current North Carolina driver’s license, rent receipt, property tax receipt, utility receipt…).
Children:
Children, birth through age 13, may receive a library card. Children may be present to receive their cards, but their presence is not required. Their applications must be signed and completed by a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian must have a valid library card.
What is a PIN and how do I get one?
A PIN is a 4 digit number that provides an extra level of security when using your library card to reserve books, renew items by phone, or look up your personal information in the Catalog. The last 4 digits of your telephone number or library card number will be assigned as your PIN when you receive a library card. You can change your PIN at anytime by accessing MY ACCOUNT.
What should I do if I lose my card?
You should report the lost card at once to your Library. You are responsible for materials taken out with the card until it is reported lost or stolen.
Is there a charge for a replacement card?
There is charge of $1.00 to replace a lost library card.
BORROWING PRIVILEGES
How long can I keep borrowed material?
Each time you borrow a book or DVD, a date due receipt or card will be given to you, indicating the day you should return the items to the library. Check this date carefully. Most material circulate for 21 days except for certain new fiction and non-fiction books. They circulate for 14 days. Items can be renewed twice if there are no holds or reserves on them.
Is there a limit on the number of items I can borrow?
The check-out limit for magazines, and DVDs is 12 per adult. There are no limits on other materials except for special project items. These items may be limited in number depending on need and collection size.
Can I renew items by phone and/or online?
Yes you can renew items by phone or online, provided there aren’t any holds or reserves on the items.
What about overdue charges?
Fines are 10¢ per day per item. There is a five-day grace period before fines start accruing except for the new releases that circulate for 14 days. If you have fines, call the Library to renew items and stop fines from accruing.
Can I get a book from another branch transferred here?
Yes, you can “reserve” or “place a hold” on all circulating library materials within the East Albemarle Regional System (EARL). Other libraries in the East Albemarle Regional System consist of libraries in Dare (Manteo, Hatteras, and Kill Devil Hills), Currituck (Barco, Corolla, and Moyock), and Camden.
Where do I return borrowed library material?
During library operating hours, please return materials to the circulation desk. You may return materials at any time in the Book Return in the front of the building or to the right of the main entrance. Materials may also be returned to any Library Branch in the EARL system. You may also return items to Mobile Library when it is available.
SERVICES
Do you send faxes?
Yes, there are fax machine is available on the both floors. Faxing is $1.00 per page.
Receiving faxes cost $1.00 for all pages.
Can I bring my students to the library?
Yes, but to provide better service to your students we ask that you make an appointment with Iisha Hill, Community Engagement Coordinator at 252-335-7536.
Do you offer computer classes or training?
Yes. We offer free training workshops at all levels. For more information, contact Mike Barnett, Computer Instructor at 252-335-7536 or email mbarnett@earlibrary.org.
Are computers available for public use in the Library?
Yes, computers are located on both floors for the public use. All the computers are connected to printers. The cost for printing is 15¢ per page for black and white copies and 75¢ per page for color copies. Copies may be picked up from the desk.
Do you have scanner for public use?
We have a scanner on both floors. Patrons wanting something scanned should bring their material to the desk. We will scan the item(s) and email it an email address.
Do you have tax forms?
Federal tax forms are available during tax season (2nd floor). They are the 1040 and the 1040-SR with the instruction booklet. They are available while supplies last. If you need tax forms, staff can help patrons print out the needed forms; black and white is 15¢ per page, and color copies are 75¢ per page.
You can download federal tax forms and publications at the IRS web site. North Carolina tax forms must be downloaded from the North Carolina Department of Revenue web site.
