Using the Library

Sierra Madre Public Library is a Universal Borrowing Library, serving residents from anywhere in California.

Library Card Applications

Patrons must complete and sign a registration form and be present to receive their cards.

Library Card Registration Form 

Patrons must provide 1) acceptable identification and 2) proof of home address. Minors under 18 must include parent/guardian’s name and signature, ID and proof of address.  Teachers must include name, address, and phone number of school.

There is no charge for the initial Library card application. Replacement cards cost $1.00.

Library cards expire after two years, at which time staff will confirm that registration details are up-to-date. Staff reserves the right to confirm ID during any transaction.

Confidentiality of Library Records

Staff members and volunteers will maintain the confidentiality of information about library users, their requests for information and materials, the online sites and resources they access, and their loan transactions. Library staff will not serve in loco parentis and will not monitor or restrict a minor’s account in absence of parental authority.

BORROWING SERVICES 

You must present your library card or photo identification for all transactions.

Loan periods, limits and fines

  • Standard Loan Period – 21 days
  • DVD Loan Period – 7 days
  • Sewing Machine Loan Period – 7 days
  • Holiday Media Loan Period – 7 days (no renewal)

You are responsible for the payment of all fines and fees charged to your account and to the accounts of your minor children.

Accounts $10.00 or over must be paid before borrowing restrictions are lifted.

Renewals

Most items may be renewed one time.
Items with a 3 week loan period may be renewed once.

Exceptions: the following may not be renewed:  

  • Items held or reserved for other patrons
  • Holiday music CDs during the holiday season
  • Items checked out on a teacher card

How to renew

You may renew in the following ways:

  • In person at the service desk
  • By telephone 626-355-7186
  • Via text message at 626-662-1254
  • On the web through your online account. Please confirm the new due dates in your account.
  • By email at [email protected]. You will receive a confirmation email with the new due dates

Holds (reserves)

You may place a hold on any item that is currently in the Library Catalog.

You will be notified by either text, e-mail, or phone when the item is ready.

How to place a hold

Items claimed returned or never had

If you have received a notice or bill for an item which you believe has been returned or incorrectly attributed to your account, please contact the Library as soon as possible

Lost or damaged materials

You are responsible for any material that is lost, damaged, stolen, etc. Lost or damaged materials will be charged a replacement cost and a reprocessing fee. Replacement cost will depend on the type of material. Payments for lost and damaged materials are non-refundable.