Frequently Asked Questions

Click on the question to see the answer.

Don't see your question? email us help@calvincircle.org or call

the HELP DESK at 4365

1) How long may I keep library books, DVDs, and audiobooks?

The normal check-out period is three weeks. Certain New Books in great demand are labeled 14 Day Loan so that the maximum number of patrons can read them while they are current .

2) How do I check out library materials?

The sign-out notebook is on the Help Desk. Enter the date, your name, your phone number, the author and title of the item you are borrowing. In the Note column, indicate if the item is a DVD or a large print or audio book. Inside the cover of the book , DVD or audio book jot down the page number of the sign-out notebook page and the date. Leave returned items in the Book Drop immediately to the left as you enter the library.

3) How many items can I have checked out at one time?

Residents are requested to take no more than one New Book at a time, allowing as many people as possible to have access during the one year period they are in the New Book shelves.

4) What newspapers does the library have?

The Library subscribes to the Chicago Tribune, the New York Times, and the WallStreet Journal. Residents can also access the online version of the New York Times, available on the three Library workstations as well as on PCs in the Calvin Circle Resource Center. The current day's editions are on the table opposite the Help Desk, while the previous day's editions are on the conference table in the center of the room. Magazines to which we subscribe or which are donated by residents are kept in the waiting room outside the library.

5) How long do you keep past issues of newspapers?

The Library keeps the most recent two issues of daily papers. The Book Review

and Sunday Magazine sections of the New York Times are saved for longer

periods.

6) Can I reserve a book that someone else has checked out?

Yes. Enter your request in the Reserve notebook on the Help Desk. The item will be held for you and you will be notified by telephone when it's available.

7) Can I call the library to see if an item is on the shelf and have it held for me?

Yes. If there is no answer, leave a message with your telephone number and your call will be returned.

8) I’m able to read only materials with large print. What are my options?

The Library owns approximately 450 books with enlarged print, and more than 125 audiobooks. The LOW VISION AID equipment in the back of the Library will enlarge any printed materials for easier reading.

9) I would like the library to buy an item. Can I give my suggestion to someone?

The Library welcomes suggestions. Write information about the item in the notebook that is on the small table opposite the library's Help Desk.

10) I would like to donate a book to the library. How do I do that?

email Gail Gill: paddygg317@gmail.com or call her at 2215

11) How can I donate magazines to the Library?

Leave donated magazines on the Help Desk.

12) I’ve never used the online catalog. Can someone show me how to do that?

Instruction on how to search the online catalog is available by appointment. Call Linda Piele X2220, or email: linda.piele@gmail.com You can also ask at the Help Desk for an instructional handout.

13) Does the library catalog show if an item is checked out and when it is due back?

No, the catalog shows only that the Library owns an item, not whether it is checked out.

14) Are all library materials included in the library catalog?

Very new items added to the collection may not yet be reflected in the catalog.

15) Can I volunteer at the library?

Yes. The Library welcomes volunteers. Contact Sharon Wissler x2269, the Library Coordinator.

16) How can I access the Library website and catalog from home?

Enter this URL Address in your internet browser: https://calvincircle.org you will also find this link on CareMerge