HOURS OF OPERATION -» View

• Why do you open later on Thursday mornings?
• Is the Daily Grind Coffee Shop open early in the morning?
• Do you close when the weather is bad?
• I have been to the library in the morning and although the outside doors were open the interior doors to the library itself were locked. Why is this?

LIBRARY CARDS & ACCOUNTS -» View

• What is my user ID & PIN?
• How do I get a library card?
• Can my child get a library card?
• How long will it take to get my library card?
• Does my library card ever expire?
• What are my responsibilities as a library card holder?
• How do I review my account status from my home computer?

OVERDUES, FINES & BILLING -» View

• Who is Unique Management Services?
• What happens if I have an overdue item?
• How do I know when my materials are due?
• Is there an advantage to being notified about overdue materials by e-mail over postal mail?
• Am I allowed to borrow items if I have overdues or fines on my card?
• What is Unique’s process for handling my account?: Credit Reported
• Doesn’t it cost the Library a lot more money to use a collection agency than to pursue overdue materials itself?
• Why is the Library so concerned with overdue items?
• How can I avoid having overdue materials?

BOOKS -» View

• What does “STACKS” mean on the online catalog?
• How do I find my book?
• Why are your books arranged the way they are?
• Can I recommend a book for you to purchase?
• Does the library accept book donations?

CHILDREN -» View

• Why can my children not be at the library by themselves? I am fine with them visiting on their own without my supervision
• How old does my child have to be to use the public computers?
• May I pick up something on hold for my child?
• Must my child or I have a library card in order to attend programming?

DOWNLOADABLES -» View

• What MP3 players work with the e-audiobooks or what features should I look for in a player?
• Can I download digital media on to my iPod?
• Do you offer any movies or music online?

EMPLOYMENT -» View

• Does the library have any current job openings?
• Does JCPL accept volunteers?

EXHIBITS -» View

• Do you have an art gallery?
• Can I display my collection of artwork in the library?
• I am a professional artist. May I advertise in the gallery along with my work?

COMPUTERS -» View

• Do you have wireless Internet?
• Do you offer computer classes?
• I am in town for business. May I use the public computers without a JCPL library card?
• Can I print from the computers? Is there a fee for printing?
• How long may I use the computers?

HOMEWORK -» View

• Is there a quiet place in the library to study?
• I need help with my homework, but nobody is available to help me.
• I’m confused about using a resource on the Web for my assignment. My teacher stressed he doesn’t want us to plagiarize. What exactly does this mean?
• I still need help but you are closed now. Is there anything I can do?

INFORMATION SERVICES -» View

• Which tax forms do I need?
• I’m trying to access a page from the website that asks me for my login information. Can you tell me what that means?

MOVIES -» View

• Do you have movies on both VHS and DVD?
• Why can’t I place a hold on a movie?

OTHER SERVICES -» View

• Can I have a fax sent to the library?
• Do you have a notary?
• Do you offer meeting space?
• Do you own a color copier?
• Do you have a scanner?
• Do you offer adult literacy classes?
• Do you lend out audio-visual equipment?
• Is there a dropbox in Wilmore where I can return materials?
  

Why do you open later on Thursday mornings?
At least one day weekly the library must run system reports and hold meetings prior to opening. While no day is ever perfect for opening later than usual, Thursday mornings have proven to be the best so far.

Is the Daily Grind Coffee Shop open early in the morning?
The Daily Grind opens slightly earlier than the library itself. It is a separate business from the library and maintains the hours it feels appropriate for best business. For a complete schedule and other information visit their site -» View

Do you close when the weather is bad?
When snow or ice and other inclement weather proves to be hazardous for driving conditions, the library will either open late, close early, or close completely. These decision are made often at the very last minute, but we will do our best to notify the local news media and to post the information on this website. Please see Closings for more details.

I have been to the library in the morning and although the outside doors were open the interior doors to the library itself were locked. Why is this?
The hours for the Daily Grind Coffee Shop, located within the library itself, differ slightly from the library’s hours. Because of this, the outside the doors to the library will be open to the public to visit the coffee shop, but the library proper will remain locked until opening hours. If you’ve arrived early please consider grabbing a cup of coffee and pastry while waiting. In addition, if you need to return materials you may place them in our book and AV drops located outside the east entrance.

What is my user ID & PIN?
Your user ID is actually your seven-digit barcode number from your library card. You will use this when accessing your account in the online catalog. Your PIN is the Personal Identification Number associated with your account. When you first open your account, the default PIN is the last four digits of your card number, but you may change this if you wish. If you have forgotten your PIN or have lost your card, you may contact us by phone for immediate help or via e-mail. See more information here -» View

How do I get a library card?
Complete rules for opening an account at JCPL can be found here -» View. We encourage everyone to get a library card and explore everything we have to offer!

Can my child get a library card?
Any customer who is under age eighteen (18) will need a guardian’s signature during registration and the guardian must already have a JCPL card or be registering for a library card at the same time. For complete details and to open an account, click here -» View

How long will it take to get my library card?
New customers receive their cards by mail, typically within 7-10 business days of registration.

Does my library card ever expire?
All library cards must be renewed in person annually. In order to renew your library card, you will be asked to verify your street address and phone number. Renewing your library card is free, unless you have an Out of Town card which is $5.00 annually.

How do I review my account status from my home computer?
To access your account for information and review or renew outstanding materials, or to change your PIN or address, click here -» View

Please note: You will need your PIN and userID (or barcode number on the back of your library card) to access your account. Your PIN is the last 4 digits of your library card upon receipt of your card. The Jessamine County Public Library highly recommends taking the time to change it to something more secure and memorable. If you do not know or cannot remember your PIN, it can be provided to you at the Circulation Desk by showing photo identification. In the near future we should be able to reset your PIN without you having to come to the library. Please be patient with us as we explore this option for you!

Who is Unique Management Services?
Unique Management Services partners with libraries across the United States and Canada to recover overdue materials and monies. It works exclusively with libraries and understands their special needs. -» Site

What happens if I have an overdue item?
When an item is overdue 7 days, the customer is notified by the Library either through an e-mail or postal mail. A second and final notice is sent on day 28, and a bill is sent for the items and related processing fees when they become 45 days overdue. If items are not returned by 60 days from the original due date, the account is turned over to Unique Management. A non-negotiable $10 processing fee is also added to the customer’s account to help cover the cost of this service.

How do I know when my materials are due?
Each time you check out items from our Circulation Desk, you receive a printed receipt. This receipt lists the items you have checked out and the day they are due. It is recommended that you place this receipt in a prominent spot in your house (a good place is on the refrigerator door; we’ll even give you a JCPL magnet to hold it there). We also notify customers by postal mail or e-mail when items are late or overdue.

In addition, you can log into your account through our catalog and check your due dates. -» Catalog

Is there an advantage to being notified about overdue materials by e-mail over postal mail?
If you are signed up for e-mail notification, you will receive an e-mail reminder notice 7 days before items become due. Note: e-mail reminder notices are not sent for Videos or DVDs since they only circulate for 3 days.

Am I allowed to borrow items if I have fines on my card?
Yes, as long as you have less than $10.00 in fines and/or estimated fines from overdue materials.

What is Unique’s process for handling my account?

• 60 Days Overdue (Day of Submission; initial placement begins): 1st letter
• 82 Days Overdue: 2nd letter
• 96-109 Days Overdue: Initial Placement Phone Calls
• 124 Days Overdue (Secondary Placement begins): 3rd letter
• 138-151 Days Overdue: Secondary Placement Phone Calls
• 180-211 Days Overdue: Credit Reported

Doesn’t it cost the Library a lot more money to use a collection agency than to pursue overdue materials itself?
A non-negotiable $10 processing fee is added on accounts turned over to Unique Management Services. This cost covers the service and a customer is responsible for paying it if they have not taken action before an item is 60 days overdue. Unique Management does not charge in advance.

Why is the Library so concerned with overdue items?
The Library has a responsibility to protect the community’s collection of materials. In general, items long overdue tend to be the newest and most popular items in the library’s collection. Returning these items to the shelves allows the library to better serve the needs of the community. It also helps us to reduce the expense for replacing these in demand materials.

How can I avoid having overdue materials?

1. Place your receipt in a prominent place at home after you check out items (we recommend placing them on a refrigerator door with a free JCPL magnet) and highlight the due dates.
2. Sign up for e-mail notification at our Circulation Desk, by calling 859-885-3523, or via e-mail. Once signed up, you will receive a courtesy notice e-mailed to your account 7 days in advance of an item being due and another on the day the item is due.
3. Check your library account online Account to see when items are due and take advantage of renewals. Most items can be renewed up to two times as long as there are no holds on the items and fines/estimated fines on your account are less than $10.00 (DVDs and Videos are not eligible for renewals).

Call the Jessamine County Public Library at 859-885-3523 or e-mail us and a staff member will be happy to give you your due date information. We may also be able to renew the items for you if you wish.

What does “STACKS” mean on the online catalog?
“Stacks” is a term that confuses many people. It simply refers to the rows of shelving in the library, specifically the largest section of shelving devoted primarily to items which can be checked out. Of course there are shelves throughout the library, but the “stacks” are where you can find materials to take with you when you leave. They are located on the eastern side of the library and extend from the audio-visual area to the genealogy room in the rear of the building. Please consult the staff at the Information Desk when you have questions.

How do I find my book?
Answering this in detail would require us to address every possible location in the library. In short, if you cannot find something, please do not hesitate to ask. We want you to ask!

However, when you see an item’s current location in the online catalog, the item should be in that location.

Why are your books arranged the way they are?
All libraries must shelve their items according to some organization system. Over the years we have changed where we have certain items for better use by our customers. We encourage you to leave us your comments if you have suggestions for changing the way things are organized.

In general we keep like items together, naturally. All of our fiction items are together, from A to Z, but new items (less than three months old) are shelved up front. Please ask if you cannot find something you’re looking for. That’s one reason we’re here!

Can I recommend a book for you to purchase?
You can recommend books -» Form or other materials you think the library should own. In addition you can have us place a hold on the item(s) for you should we decide to order it. We appreciate feedback from our customers on considerations to purchase. It means you appreciate JCPL!

Does the library accept book donations?
JCPL does not currently accept donations. From time to time we may accept a unique or important item, but in general we do not. There are several reasons we do not. First, we maintain an excellent collection chosen by a top-notch collection development team. In addition, we cannot guarantee the physical qualities of donated items; many times they are damaged in a way that is not apparent until we have thoroughly examined them. We do not have to worry about the physical structure of the items we ourselves add to the collection, and a damaged item can ruin other items it is near on the shelf.

If you have items to donate, we encourage you to take them to a local organization which will take such property.

Why can my children not be at the library by themselves? I am fine with them visiting on their own without my supervision.
The public library has a long tradition of being a place of comfort and safety. We encourage people of all ages to get the most out of their library. The library cannot, however, be responsible for minors left unattended. A child ten years of age and younger must be accompanied by a guardian or sibling of at least 16 years of age. We have this policy in place to ensure the safety of minors for whom we cannot possibly be ultimately responsible.

Please see our Unattended Children Policy for more details. We appreciate your understanding.

How old does my child have to be to use the public computers?
A minor must have Internet access granted on her or his account by the guardian legally assigned to the account in order to use the public computers. Please click here: Getting Library Card for more information.

May I pick up something on hold for my child?
A parent or guardian is ultimately responsible for all the materials charged to a minor’s account, and thus is allowed to pick up materials that are being held for the child. In addition, an adult can assign someone else responsible for picking up materials for themselves as well. Please click here: Requests & Holds for more information.

Must my child or I have a library card in order to attend programming?
We want everyone to have a JCPL card, but we also invite everyone to attend our quality children’s programming.

What MP3 players work with the e-audiobooks or what features should I look for in a player?
Most MP3 players can be used to play our downloadable files. We have two services available to you for downloadables, each with its own website with further information. One is NetLibrary; the other Kentucky Libraries Unbound.

For more assistance with player formats using Kentucky Libraries Unbound click here: Site

For using our NetLibrary collection, click here: Site

Can I download digital media on to my iPod?
No. Apple, which makes the iPod, has its own proprietary format for use on its player. Although changes are being made in the industry, in general an iPod will not play any file except those in iPod format. Most other players can be used to play our downloadable files. We have two services available to you for downloadables, each with its own website with further information.

For more assistance with player formats using Kentucky Libraries Unbound click here: Site

For using our NetLibrary collection, click here: Site

Do you offer any movies or music online?
Our online downloadable collection of material does have several movie and music items, but the selection is limited at this time. It promises to grow, however, and we encourage you to check regularly.

Does the library have any current job openings?
To check for employment openings, see our Jobs page.

Does JCPL accept volunteers?
No, JCPL does not seek volunteers for help in the library in any position.

Do you have an art gallery? Can I display my collection of artwork in the library?
The library has a long hallway in which we like to display the work of artists, especially local artists. In addition, we have several glass exhibit cases in which we display collections of items. While we do not accept all suggestions, if you have an idea for our gallery or exhibit spaces you may e-mail or call us.

I am a professional artist. May I advertise in the gallery along with my work?
While the library encourages artists to display their work for the public’s benefit, it is against library policy to allow non-library business enterprises to conduct their affairs on library property. Naturally artists wish to display their business cards or other information, which is acceptable. You may not, however, engage in financial or other legal transactions with a customer concerning your business while on library property. Likewise, solicitation is forbidden.

Do you have wireless Internet?
Wireless Internet (WiFi) is available within the Jessamine County Public Library and is provided free of charge to all customers of the library whether you are a library card-holder or not. Please view more information about WiFi by clicking here: Computers & Wireless Internet.

Do you offer computer classes?
We have offered computer training courses in the past with much success, but we do not have courses on a regular basis. If you have an interest in a class being held, please contact our Information Desk.

I am in town for business. May I use the public computers without a JCPL library card?
You have two options: you may use our stand-alone computer for fifteen minutes (or longer if nobody is waiting). This unit is available for quick use and offers no capabilities for inserting your own media, nor can you print from it.

To use a public computer with printing and port features you must have a card. We offer out-of-town cards, good for one year, for $5.00. If you have a library card from someone with whom we participate in reciprocal borrowing (in the nearby counties), you may obtain a JCPL card for free. Please see Obtaining A Library Card for details.

Can I print from the computers? Is there a fee for printing?
Yes. Printing is $.10 per page.

How long may I use the computers?
The general period for using a public computer is one hour. If there is nobody waiting to use the computer you are on, you may continue to use it longer. You may reserve a computer at the Computer Desk and soon you will be able to reserve one online for the exact time you need to start.

How do I use wireless Internet at the Library?
Most people can bring their wireless-enabled laptop computer to the Library and will detect our wireless network as soon as they turn it on.
If your laptop does not have wireless built-in, you must purchase a WiFi-compatible Network Interface Card (NIC) that is 802.11b compliant. We cannot guarantee your equipment will work with the wireless network.

What equipment do I need and how do I set up my device?
You need a portable device, such as a laptop, loaded with a web browser and a WiFi-compatible Network Interface Card (NIC) that is 802.11b compliant.

How much does it cost?
Wireless access to the internet is provided free of charge.

Where can I plug in my laptop?
The library has limited power outlets available for customers to plug their laptop into. It is best to bring a fully charged battery in case electric outlets are not available.

Do I need a library card?
No, you do not need a library card to use this free service.

Can I search the Library Catalog and special databases using wireless?
Yes! Links to our Catalog and collection of Databases can be found. Since the wireless service is on an independent network, you will be treated as a remote user when using the databases.

Can I print while using wireless?
Printing is not available. If you need to print, please save your work to 3.5 diskette, CD, USB drive or e-mail files to an online e-mail account, then login to a library workstation and send print jobs to a printer.

Am I allowed to use my notebook speakers?
The library asks that use headphones to listen to any type of audio. The library does not provide headphones.

Are there any restrictions on my use of the Internet?
Internet users in the children’s area are not permitted to access Internet sites which may be unsuitable for minors. Users in any area of the Library may not use Internet sessions in a manner that is deliberately offensive or one that creates a hostile or intimidating environment. While accessing the Internet at the Library, users must comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws.

Is wireless access filtered or unfiltered?
Just like the library’s public computers, WiFi access on your portable device is filtered.

Is my information safe while using wireless?
To protect the information on your laptop, we strongly encourage the use of security measures such as virus protection software and a personal firewall. Security measures are the sole responsibility of the laptop user. The Library is not responsible for any loss of information or damage to your laptop that might result from using the wireless network library.

Can library staff help configure my computer?
The library staff is not able to offer technical assistance. You are responsible for understanding how to configure your own equipment. It is recommended that you check your equipment’s manual. The library is not responsible for any changes you make to your computer’s settings. If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the hardware or software manufacturer.

Is there a quiet place in the library to study?
There is an area of the library designated as a quiet space in the north side of the building.

I need help with my homework, but nobody I know is available to help me.
While we are not teachers and cannot do your homework for you, we can certainly help you with your Research Questions. Please contact the Information Desk.

I’m confused about using a resource on the Web for my assignment. My teacher stressed he doesn’t want us to plagiarize. What exactly does this mean?
Plagiarism is using something someone else wrote or said and making it appear as your own. The Information Desk can help you avoid plagiarism.

I still need help but you are closed now. Is there anything I can do?
We have two online services that you may find helpful.

AskWhyKy is available anytime for help with your questions via live chat sessions.

Live Homework Help is an online tutoring service available several hours during the late afternoon and evening.

Which tax forms do I need?
We do not know! We are librarians, but not tax experts. The library has many paper tax forms available to you, and can supply you with most others you need as well. The library cannot, however, assist you in any way with determining which tax forms you need or how to complete them. Even if we did know we are legally bound against assisting you with your tax preparation.

I’m trying to access a page from the website that asks me for my login information. Can you tell me what that means?
We have many databases and websites available to you from this website. Most will allow you to enter without any ID or password, but some will. The quickest way to get help is to call the Information Desk at 859-885-3523. If it is after hours, you may e-mail us and we will get back with you as soon as possible. When it is possible for you to determine the log in information yourself, we have posted that on the page for the website or database which you are trying to access.

Do you have movies on both VHS and DVD?
We offer a collection of feature films, documentaries, children’s films and more on both VHS and DVD.

Why can’t I place a hold on a movie?
It is not possible at this time to adequately respond to customer demand for holds on movie titles. Please note that if you call to ask us if a movie is available, we will tell you its status at the time of your call. It does not guarantee that it will be available by the time you come to the library. We do not hold movies at this time.

Can I have a fax sent to the library?
JCPL offers a fax for sending and receiving items. The fax number to which you can send items is 859-885-5164. There is a $1.00 charge per page to both send and to receive.

Do you have a notary?
No. We had notary services available in the past, but do not currently have anyone on staff assigned as a notary. The Information Desk will be able to assist you with the location of a local Notary.

Do you offer meeting space?
We have two meeting rooms available for free public use. The rooms can be combined into one larger room. For more information see: Meeting Rooms.

Do you own a color copier?
No.

Do you have a scanner?
No.

Do you offer adult literacy classes?
We do not offer classes here, but the Jessamine County Adult Education Center may have information to help you.

Do you lend out audio-visual equipment?
We have an overhead projector that one can borrow for one week with a library card in good standing. We have no other equipment to lend out. If you are using the Meeting Rooms and require equipment please ask the Circulation Desk for more information. We require a $10 deposit that is refunded upon return.

Is there a dropbox in Wilmore where I can return materials?
Yes! There are new book and media return boxes at the National City Bank in Wilmore. Materials are picked up every Tuesday and Thursday morning.