Using the Library
There is more to do at the Library than you might ever imagine!
Sure, you can find a book or do some research. But don’t stop there. The Library is overflowing with ideas, information, activities and services.
Here are just a few suggestions:
- Take DVDs home or download eBooks or audio books
- Join a variety of book clubs
- Get help with your devices
- Use a public computer or bring your own
- Enjoy a story time with your toddler or preschooler
- Get help with literacy or English as a Second Language.
- Ask a Librarian by phone, email or at the library
… and much, much more!
It’s all free – and it’s all at your Library.
Get a Library Card
Any person who lives in Mendocino County is eligible to receive a Fort Bragg Library card free of charge. It’s easy. To get your card just stop by the library with a valid picture ID and proof of residency (a piece of mail, car registration, anything that shows your name and current address), fill out a card application and we’ll get your borrowing ability started in no time. Minors under 12 require a parent or guardian’s signature along with proof of residency.
What can I do with a Library card?
- Check out books, movies and audiobooks
- Download e-books, audiobooks, music and videos
- Place holds on items in person or online
- Use online resources
- Check your account online
What can I do without a card?
- Read books, magazines and use special collections when visiting a library
- Ask a Librarian
- Attend Events & Classes
- Get Literacy Help
- Access our wireless network on your mobile device
- Use a public computer
What else should I know about Library cards?
- Visitors and non-resident? You can get a temporary, restricted Library card. Ask at the desk for more info.
- Lose your card? We’ll replace it for free! Just need to show your ID at the desk.
- Card lost or stolen? Call the Library @707-964-2020. Let us know immediately – you are responsible for any borrowed items.
BORROW ITEMS
How many items may I borrow and how long can I keep them?
You may check out 50 items at a time (only 20 of those can be DVDs). Your digital book downloads do not count toward this limit. All items, with the exception of video games, board games and a few other restricted items, are loaned for 21 days. InterLibrary Loans (books from outside our tri-counties area) are loaned for 14 days unless otherwise noted. Due to high demand, some New books may have renewal restrictions.
EXPLORE THE COLLECTION
Are there really over a million items in the Library collection?
Yes. People are often surprised by the number and different types of items available through the Mendocino County Library system.
Browse Our Shelves
We have fiction of all genres, an extensive non-fiction collection, DVDs, fiction and non-fiction audiobooks, a large Spanish language section, young adult, kids and Large Print items. We also have a wonderful California collection as well as local and National genealogy materials. Ask a staff member for help in locating items in your field of interest.
ONLINE CATALOG
The Mendocino County Library system has partnered with Lake County and Sonoma County to widen our services to include materials from all 3 Counties. If you’re not finding what you need at our Branch, check our online catalog for more resources.
Books, DVDs, Audiobooks
Mendocino County Library Find! Catalog search our online catalog for materials available in the Tri-Counties area including books for children, teens and adults; books on CD; films and music; comic books, special collections and graphic novels; and books in many languages and large print.. With our catalog you can search for items by title, author, publisher, or any variable of advanced search mechanisms. You can access and browse our catalog online or in the library using the Catalog computers available at each branch. With our online Catalog you can place a hold on items or reserve items currently checked out to others. Plus the online Catalog lets you manage your account, renew items, check your holds and due dates, etc. Having trouble? Stop in or give us a call 707-964-2020 and we’ll walk you through the process.
Interlibrary Loans–Can’t find what you’re looking for in our Catalog? Those needing materials outside of our Tri-County system (only items NOT in our catalog) can borrow an item from another library system for a $2 fee per item. Requests may be made online or in person at any branch location. Please note: Items need to be more than a year old. Books, audiobooks and cassettes only. Most dvds are not available. Items are restricted to a 14-day loan period.
Where can I return items I borrow?
Return items to any County Library location within the tri-counties (Mendocino, Lake, Sonoma) area or, if it’s after hours, they can be dropped in the Book Return slots at any tri-counties location.
If an item remains on your account for more than a day after return, please speak with checkout staff at your local branch or call 707-964-2020 during open hours.
RENEWING LIBRARY ITEMS
How do I renew items?
- Use the online Find! Catalog
- Use TeleCirc, the automated phone service at 707-340-5197
- Call or visit any Library location
You need your Library card and PIN to renew online or through TeleCirc and your Library card to renew by phone or in person.
Can I keep items past the due date?
Most items can be renewed twice if no one is waiting for them. The renewal period is the same length as the original loan period (see above). Note: Interlibrary Loans may not be renewed.
Digital Downloads (eBooks and Audiobooks)
Downloadable Library Fiction and nonfiction e-books and audiobooks to download to your computer or a portable device. Not sure if your device is compatible or need help figuring out how to access your downloaded items? Stop in or give us a call and we’ll help you get started.
Need Help?
If you need help with anything pertaining to using the Library, research questions, suggestions you’d like to make to improve the Library, website or any of the services provided, please don’t hesitate to speak with a staff member in person, call us or send an email.