LIBRARY FAQs
Q: What do you need to get a library card?
A: You need to be a Berwyn resident. Bring in two (2) IDs, one from each column below. Both IDs need to have your name and current address. If you only have one form of ID we will mail you your card. The process is fast and easy – we can issue you a card in less than 5 minutes.
Column A
Valid Driver's License
Valid State ID |
Column B
Current Utility Bill
Lease/Mortgage
Checkbook with printed address
Current auto registration
Auto insurance with printed address |
Q: What is the checkout or loan period?
A: The library has two loan periods: videos and DVDs have a one (1) week loan period and all other materials can be checked out for three (3) weeks. There is a one-time renewal for an additional three (3) weeks for materials without holds excluding videos and DVDs.
Q: How do I access the library’s website from home?
A: http://www.berwynlibrary.net is our URL. You can sign up for adult programs, access many of our databases, check your library card record (renew materials on-line), place holds on materials, access book lists, view video footage for some of our programs and download audio books. Our site is under construction, so check back often to see some of the site’s improvements.
Q: What type of computer services does the library offer?
A: The Computer Services Department is located on the second floor of the library. Public Internet access is issued on a first-come-first-served basis to residents and non-residents alike. Users of our computers can have a total of three (3), one hour sessions per day. If other patrons are waiting, only one hour sessions will be allowed. There are additional terminals (for research and job searching) as well as a fax service in our Reference Department located on the lower level.
Q: Does the library accept donations?
A: The library accepts contributions of new and used materials. We use donations to supplement our collections or sell them in our on-going and annual book sale. The books are priced by library staff and all proceeds benefit the library. Bring your fiction and non-fiction, preschool to adult paperbacks and hardbound books, videos and DVDs, and music CDs to the library during any of our open hours. Please no condensed books or National Geographics.
Q: How can I support my library?
A: There are three ways to support the Berwyn Public Library.
- – Join the Friends of the Berwyn Public Library –
The Friends is a non-profit and educational organization. Membership is open to all persons interested in the improvement and growth of library services. The organization’s objectives are: focusing public attention on the library, stimulating use of the library’s resources and services, and generating financial support through book sales, programs and membership dues. If you would like to participate in the future of your library, join this vibrant group that provides extra programming, equipment and services not covered by the library’s regular operating budget. Membership applications are available at the library or to have one mailed or emailed contact the Outreach Department at 708-795-8000, ext. 3020.
- – Memorials and Pathway to Knowledge –
Remember a loved one, celebrate a wedding, anniversary, graduation, birth of a child or just honor someone special in your life with a beautiful book, especially chosen to reflect the person or occasion it commemorates or have a brick laid in the library’s Pathway to Knowledge. The pathway continues to honor individuals each time they or their families enter the library or a book will be added to our permanent collection to be enjoyed by others while serving as a reminder of the person or occasion you are honoring. Either choice is a lasting remembrance. For additional information please call Barbara Ziemba at 708-795-8000 ext. 3029.
The library accepts monetary contributions that can be used for specific projects. Please contact the library’s Director, at 708-795-8000 ext. 3032 for additional information.
