FAQ

Here are a number of questions we are asked frequently at the Circulation and Information Desks. Scroll down to browse the list, or click on one of the following topics to jump to that section of the page:

• General Questions
• Email Notification Questions
• Computing and Internet Questions

General Questions

1. How do I get a library card?
   You can get a library card by presenting some identification to staff at our checkout desk. For more information, see Memberships & Borrowing

2. Do you have wi-fi?
   Yes! Wifi is available throughout the Main Branch during all opening hours. You will need to sign on with your library card, or visitors may present ID for guest sign-in.

3. How do I renew a book?
   You may renew:

   • In Person
   • Online
   • Telephone 745-5382 ext. 2332 during library hours.
   • Through the Automated Telephone System 705-745-0407

4. Do you have a fax machine? Or a scanner?
   Sorry, but we do not offer these services to the public.

5. How do I donate books to the library?
   Donations of books, magazines and audio-visual materials are welcomed at the library and are used by the Friends of the Library to raise funds to purchase new materials and equipment and to sponsor programs. Donations may be brought into the library at the front entrance or at the back during business hours. Donors may call 705-745-5382 for details.

Email Notification Questions

1. How does Internet email notification work?
   When something you have requested is ready for you to pick up, the library will send you an email notice. The notice will list the title(s) being held, the library holding the materials and how long the materials will be held for you. You will also receive email if you have items that are overdue or have been declared lost. A reminder notice can be sent two days before an item is due to give you the option to renew it or return it on time and avoid fines.

2. Can I choose to receive some types of email notices and not others?
   No. Our software allows us to turn email notices on or off, but not to select the types.

3. Can I renew my books via email?
   No, but you can renew on the library website by choosing My Account, by telephone, or in person at the library.

4. How do I change my email address?
   You change your email address exactly the same way you originally signed up for email notification by phone, library website or in person. If an email notice is returned to the library, you will not receive any further email, but will continue to receive regular printed notices.

5. Why am I not getting my email notices?
   Many email services (such as Hotmail, Yahoo, EarthLink and AOL) have settings that can stop you from receiving email notices from the Library. These settings may place email notices in your spam or junk mail folder and not deliver them to your in-box. Please make sure your spam or junk mail folder is set to accept messages from e-library@peterborough.ca. Check the Help section on your email provider's Web site for more information.

6. Can all the members of my family receive their notices at the same email address?
   Yes, but privacy may be a concern. If family members share one email address, then all persons with access to that mailbox will be able to view the notices sent to that email address.

Computing and Internet Questions

1. Can I print?
   Printing is available from the public computers for 25 cents per page. We do not have a colour printer. At this time, you cannot print from our wifi network.

2. I don’t have a library card—can I use the computers?
   Out-of-town guests may use the public computers upon presentation of valid identification. Peterborough residents are asked to obtain a library card (for free) and sign on with their library card number.

3. Why can I only use the computers for an hour a day?
   The computers are very popular. In order to ensure equitable access to the computers, we limit usage to one hour. If you need more time to work on a resume or job searching, Peterborough Employment Resource Centre (178 Charlotte St.) also has computers available for this use.

4. How long can I log-on to wireless?
   Wireless use is unlimited, as users bring their own computers and/or wifi devices.

5. Why can’t we use the computers on Sundays?
   Unfortunately, City of Peterborough resources do not allow us to provide this service during all opening hours. The library is staffed at a minimum level on Sundays, which prevents us from offering a full level of support to monitor and assist patrons with computer use in addition to regular Information Desk duties.