Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I get a Library card?
Getting a library card is free and easy! Come to the library and fill out a membership form, and present your ID or other proof of address such as a utility bill or fill out the application online!
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How do I renew my Library card?
Renewing your library card is easy; you can renew your card at the circulation desk next time you're at the library
or you can call us at 215-699-5410 and we can renew your card directly over the phone.
You can also email us at librarian@northwaleslibrary.org to renew your card.
What are your hours?
The library's current hours are:
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Mondays - Thursdays: 11:00am to 7:00pm
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Fridays: 11:00am to 4:00pm
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Saturdays: 10:00am to 5:00pm
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Sundays: Closed
How many books can I check out?
Currently the total number of items (of any kind) you can have checked out is 25. Certain types of items have limits on how many you can have checked out at once, even if you haven't reached your 25 item limit. Attraction passes are limited to one at a time.
Click here to see more details about our circulation policies.
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How can I renew my books?
There are several different ways to renew your books.
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If you are in person at the library, simply tell the circulation desk staff which books you would like to renew.
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You can also call us at 215-699-5410 and renew books over the phone.
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You can renew books online, first you need to log on to your online patron account. The default password is the lass 4 digits of your phone number. Once logged on, click the red "Items Checked Out" tab. Click the box next to the items you wish to renew, make sure "Renew Selected Titles" is selected in the drop down box, and click "Go".
I can't renew my books! Why?
There are three main reasons why you might not be able to renew a book:
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Another patron has the book on hold.
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You have no renewals left for that specific book.
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You have overdue books or outstanding overdue fines.
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It's also important to note that certain items cannot be renewed, such as attraction passses, or can only be renewed by library staff, such as DVDs. If you have questions about why an item on your account cannot be renewed, contact the library at 215-699-5410 or email us at librarian@northwaleslibrary.org.
Can I donate used books/DVDs/etc.?
We only accept used book donations at certain times to year because of storage restrictions. We are not accepting used book donations at this time. When we are accepting donations we accept gently used paperback books, hardbacks books, children's books, DVDs, puzzles, board games, and music CDs. We never accept; heavily damaged books, textbooks, encyclopedias, VHS tapes, cassette tapes, and computer books/manuals. You can visit our Used Book Donation Guidelines webpage for a more in-depth explanation of what we do and don't accept.
How do I get onto my online account?
To begin logging on to your online account you must visit the log in page, this can also be reached by clicking the "Log In" button on the library home page. From there, you must enter your library card number which can be found on the back of your library card. Then you enter your password; the default password is the last four digits of your phone number. Then click the red "Log in" button and you will be on your online patron account!
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Click here to see a step by step guide if you need more help.
How do I get into my Libby account?
Logging in to Libby (for iPhone, Android, PC, MAC, and most tablets):
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Download the Libby app from your device’s app store or access Libby on your computer with the following link: https://libbyapp.com/
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Follow the on screen prompts to set up an account. When prompted to select a library, search for "Montgomery County Library District Consortium"
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Select the Montgomery County Library District Consortium result from your search, then choose a location from the dropdown provided according to the following information:
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For library card numbers beginning with 25084: select “North Wales Area Library”
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For library card numbers beginning with 22398: select “Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library”
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Then, enter your entire library card number (without spaces) found on the back of your library card
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From here, you can browse for eBook, audiobook, and Kindle titles
* Many Kindle and Nook devices require a different log-in process, please contact the library for assistance with setting up eBooks if you are unable to download the Libby app or access the Libby website on your device.
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For other questions related to Libby, check out the Libby Help page.
How can I support the library?
There are many wonderful ways to support your library and contribute to its success:
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Donate: Financial contributions help us expand our collections, enhance programs, and improve facilities. You can make a one-time donation or set up a recurring gift.
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Volunteer: We welcome volunteers to assist with various tasks, from organizing books and leading programs to helping with special events. Your time and skills are greatly appreciated!
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Join the Friends of the Library: Many libraries have a "Friends" group that raises funds and advocates for the library. Membership can involve participating in events, assisting with fundraising, or spreading the word about library services.
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Attend Library Events: Support the library by participating in events and programs. Your presence not only enriches the community but also shows that you value what the library offers.
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Spread the Word: Tell your friends and family about the library's resources and events. The more people know about what we offer, the stronger our community support becomes.
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Provide Feedback: Share your thoughts and suggestions to help us improve our services. Your feedback is invaluable in shaping the library's future.
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Support Our Fundraisers: Participate in or contribute to library fundraisers and book sales. These events help raise money for special projects and needs.
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Every bit of support helps us continue to provide valuable services and resources to the community.
Thank you for considering how you can make a difference!
Do you have public access computers?
Yes we do! In order to use our public access computers, you must agree to our computer use policy. If you are a member of the library, then you agreed to this policy when you filled our your membership forms. If you aren't a member of the library, a copy of this policy can be obtained from the circulation desk.
Do you have wireless internet (Wi-Fi)?
Yes, the library does have public access Wi-Fi. Our Wi-Fi is free to use and doesn't require a password. Simply come inside the library and connect your laptop, phone, or other device to the Wi-Fi called "NWLWiFi_Public" to begin browsing the internet.
Can I print from the Library? How much does it cost?
You can print from any of our public access computers! Printing costs 10 cents per black and white page, 25 cents per color page. After you click print on the computer, you must go the circulation desk and confirm your printing and pay before the pages will print.
Can I print from my personal laptop/phone/tablet at the Library?
Printing from personal devices is not possible. Low-cost printing is available from the public access computers, for only 10 cents per black and white page or 25 cents per color page.
Can I send a Fax from the Library? How much does it cost?
If you want to send a fax, simply ask a library staff member and we will help you! We ask for a donation of your choosing in return. The Library is not able to receive faxes.
Does the Library offer IT help?
The Library does not have any dedicated IT staff. Library staff will attempt to assist you with technical questions when possible, however staff will not be able to offer help during times when the Library is busy. Library staff cannot offer technical help in areas that involve your personal information, such as job applications and resumes.
Does the Library have tax documents?
The Library does not have pre-printed tax documents. Pennsylvania tax documents can be found online on the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue website. Federal tax documents can be found online on the IRS website. The Library does offer low cost printing, only 10 cents per black and white page or 25 cents per color page.
What Attraction/Museum passes does the Library offer?
The Library currently offers passes to over 25 different attractions! These passes can be used by Library patrons to visit attractions like museums, gardens, and zoos free of charge. You can check out our "Attraction Passes" webpage for a full list of passes we offer, how many people each pass can be used for, and more.
What children's programming does the Library offer?
Our library offers a diverse range of programming for children designed to inspire a love of reading, learning, and creativity.
Here’s an overview of what we provide:​
1. Storytimes: Enjoy interactive and engaging storytime sessions for various age groups, including infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. These sessions often include stories, songs, and activities that promote early literacy skills.
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2. Summer Reading Programs: Keep your child’s reading skills sharp during the summer with our exciting reading challenges and activities. Participants can earn rewards and take part in special events designed to make reading fun.
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3. Craft and Art Workshops: Join our creative workshops where children can explore their artistic side through hands-on crafts and art projects. These programs are designed to encourage creativity and fine motor skills.
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4. Educational Programs: We offer a variety of educational programs, including our **STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Workshops**. These sessions focus on hands-on activities and experiments that spark curiosity and learning in STEM subjects while incorporating artistic elements for a well-rounded experience.
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5. Python Coding Classes: For budding programmers, we offer **Python Coding Classes** tailored to children. These classes introduce basic coding concepts in a fun and interactive way, helping kids develop problem-solving skills and computational thinking. Brought to us by the Behind the Screens club from North Penn High School.
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6. Book Club: Our book club provides a great way for children to discuss books and share their thoughts in a supportive and fun environment.
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7. Special Events: Throughout the year, we host special events such as author visits, themed parties, and holiday celebrations. These events offer unique experiences and opportunities for children to engage with literature and learning in exciting ways.
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8. Family Programs: We also offer programs designed for the whole family to enjoy together, including interactive games, family storytimes, and educational activities.
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Check our Children/Teen Programming page or visit us in person for the latest schedule and to register for upcoming programs. We’re excited to provide a range of activities that support and celebrate the diverse interests and developmental needs of children!