Using Your Library FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Library Cards
How do I get a Library Card? Cards for children, unincorporated Carol Stream, expiration, use at other libraries, losing your card, presenting your card.

Library Materials
Loan periods, renewals, overdue, damaged or lost, interlibrary loan, best sellers, book drop, gifts & donations, local history collection, other special collections, How much do I save by using the Carol Stream Public Library?

Unsupervised Children
Do children have to be supervised by an adult? Preschool children? School-age Children? What happens if a child is left at the Library after closing?

Meeting Rooms and Display Spaces
Meeting rooms, display spaces, Place a Room Request online.

Lost and Found
Does the Library have a Lost and Found?

Computers and Internet Access
Public use computers, Internet access, wireless access

Office Equipment Use
Copiers, fax machines, scanner, microfilm/fiche reader and printer

Library Board of Trustees
When do they meet? What's on the agenda? Who are the Trustees?

Friends of the Carol Stream Public Library
Who are the Friends of the Carol Stream Public Library?
How do I become a Friend of the Carol Stream Public Library?

About the Library
How do I contact the Library? What happens if patrons exhibit disruptive behavior while at the Library? Can I smoke on Library property? How do I get a job at the Library? What job opportunities are available?, and History of the Library

Freedom of Information Act
What is the Library's Mission Statement?, What is the operating budget for FY2008?, How many people are employed at the Library?, What organization exercises control over the Library's policies and procedures?, and How do I request records from the Library?

Library Cards
How do I get a Library Card?
To apply for a library card, residents must live within the Village of Carol Stream and supply two forms of identification: a photo ID and a document which supplies both the name and current address of the applicant. Appropriate forms of identification include: a Driver's License, State ID, Utility Bill, or Voter's Registration Card. [Borrowing Privileges, effective April 14. 2008]

A parent or legal guardian must sign a child's application and supply the required proof of residency in person.

How old does my child have to be to get a library card?
Any child, age 3 through 17 years, may be issued a library card.
A parent or legal guardian must sign a child's application and supply the required proof of residency in person.

How do I get a library card if I live in unincorporated Carol Stream?
As residents who live in unincorporated Carol Stream do not pay property taxes for the Carol Stream Public Library, a library card may be obtained upon payment of an annual fee, which is based on their property valuation. In addition to supplying the appropriate forms of identification, a copy of the most recent property tax bill should be presented.

Does my library card expire?
Most library cards are issued for a three-year time period.

Can I use my library card at other libraries?
Through an agreement with the DuPage Library System, Carol Stream library card-holders may borrow materials from participating public libraries throughout the State of Illinois. These reciprocal borrowing privileges are available to patrons in good standing, those without outstanding fines or other blocks on their cards. Local public libraries include Glenside and Wheaton Public Libraries.

What happens if I lose my library card?
Replacement library cards may be purchased for $1.00.

Why do I always need to bring my library card?
In these days of identity theft and confidentiality issues, your library card serves as a means of identification when calling or visiting the Library. Having your card with you is also the best way to ensure a prompt Library transaction. Whenever you are phoning the Library, stopping by to browse for materials, picking up items previously requested, or using the Internet or Public Use Computers, please remember to have your library card available. The practice of sharing library cards among family members is discouraged.

Library Materials
How long can I keep the material I check out?
[Circulation Policies, effective April 14. 2008]

Books	28 days
Audio Books	28 days
Multimedia Kits	28 days
Paperbacks, Pamphlet File Items	28 days
Adult New Books and New Audio Books	14 days
Periodicals and Puzzles	14 days
Cassettes, Compact Discs (CDs) and CD-ROMs	14 days
Older Videos, DVDs	7 days
New DVD sets	7 days
New DVDs and Videocassettes	3 days
Flashdrives	3 days

Can I renew my Library materials?
Yes! You can renew materials in person, by phone (630-653-0755) or through My Account. In most cases library materials may be renewed one time. Items that are on hold for another patron or are part of a special collection may not be renewed.

What happens if my materials are overdue?
The overdue fine for most library materials is $.25/per item/per day.
The overdue fine for new DVDs and VHS tapes that have a 3-day loan period is $1.00/per item/per day.

Overdue fines will accumulate to a maximum overdue fine. See Circulation Policies, effective April 14, 2008 for details. Patrons are encouraged to return library materials on time to avoid overdue fines.

Where can I return Library materials?
A book drop is available 24 hours a day to the right of the outside doors for convenient return of ALL Library materials.

What happens if I lose or damage Library materials?
The Library cardholder is responsible for any expenses that result from loss, theft or damage to any materials borrowed.

The replacement cost of the item will be charged plus a processing fee of $2.00-$5.00, to help defray the cost of preparing a replacement item for circulation. [Circulation Policies, effective April 14. 2008]

What should I do if I get home and find my Library material is damaged?
Occasionally, Library Staff will not notice that an item is damaged before checking it out. Upon returning home, if you discover a problem with any Library materials, please contact the Circulation Department as soon as possible at 630-653-0755. The pre-existing damage will be noted in the item record and you will not be charged.

Patrons will be held responsible for replacement or repair costs on any Library materials that are returned with damage that has not been previously reported.

What do I do if the item I want isn't in your computer?
If the title you are looking for is not in our online catalog, we can usually get the item for you through interlibrary loan. Your Carol Stream Public Library card entitles you to this free service, which allows us to request books for you from just about any other library in the country. Videos and other audiovisual materials can be requested only from other Illinois libraries.

Why do I have to wait so long to get a best seller?
The Library tries to minimize the wait time for a best seller by buying multiple copies of popular books. Our policy is to purchase one copy for every five Carol Stream reserves on a title. Therefore, if 40 Carol Stream patrons reserve the latest John Grisham book, we will buy 9 copies. In addition, best sellers can only be checked out for two weeks and cannot be renewed.

Normally, you wouldn't have to wait more than eight or 10 weeks to get a copy of a best seller. This is not an ideal world, however. Patrons keep books out past due or do not pick up their reserves in a timely fashion. This results in other patrons having to wait longer to get their books. We try to anticipate and meet the demands of our patrons while practicing wise fiscal management. This is often a challenge, but we recognize the appeal of best sellers and make an effort to provide them as soon as possible. [Between the Lines, Oct/Nov 2003]

Can I donate items or provide a gift to the Library?
The Library will accept gifts without commitment as to final disposition. In determining whether or not a gift item is to be added to the Library's collection, the same standards are applied with respect to a gift as are used in the selection of an item for purchase. If the material presented to the Library is useful but not needed, it may be offered to another library or sold by the Friends of the Library group.

Does the Library have any photos from the early years of the village's development?
Yes, the Library has collected photographs, documents, other items of local interest throughout the years. The items in the Local History Collection have to be used at the Adult Services Desk. Some photos from the Local History Collection are now available through flickr.com.

What special collections does the Library own?
The Carol Stream Public Library maintains collections of yearbooks, local government documents, local history collection, newspaper microfilm, pamphlet file, large print, foreign language, and English-as-a-Second Language materials.

How much do I save by using the Carol Stream Public Library?
The Carol Stream Public Library does not charge patrons to borrow materials, use the computers, or ask questions. You can use the Library Use Value Calculator to find out how much using the Library saves you each month. You might be surprised.

Unsupervised Children
Do children have to be supervised by an adult while at the Library?

PRESCHOOL CHILDREN (Children under Age 6)
Children under Age 6 must be directly supervised by an adult. The adult must remain with the child so as to be able to maintain eye contact. The child is not to be left with older siblings. The adult must also remain in the building during Library programs attended by the child. [Effective August 17, 1994]
SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN (Ages 6-18)
Unattended children between Ages 6 and 18 are free to utilize the Library as long as needed, provided their behavior is not disruptive to other patrons or Staff members. Exceptions may apply in cases of suspected child neglect or truancy. [Effective August 17, 1994]

What happens when a child is left at the Library after closing?
Parents and Caregivers are asked to be aware of closing times, particularly on weekends. Announcements are made on the public address system before closing to remind children to arrange for rides. If needed, Library Staff will also assist children in making appropriate telephone calls. Staff members are not responsible, however, for staying with children after hours. When the building is closed, the Carol Stream Police Department will be contacted for assistance. [Effective August 17, 1994]

Meetings Rooms and Display Spaces
Does the Library have a meeting room my organization can use?
The Carol Stream Public Library allows local groups the use of the Community Room, in accordance with its Meeting Room Policy. Groups wishing to use the Community Room must complete a Room Request online and submit a Responsibility Statement. Online reservations for the Community Room can be made no less than three days and no more than eight weeks in advance. If a reservation is needed sooner than three days or if the current calendars do not display a date up to eight weeks in advanced, contact the Head of Circulation Services, who will assist you with you reservation.

Library programs will be given priority when scheduling the Community Room. Permission to use the Community Room does not constitute an endorsement of a group's policies or beliefs. Inquiries about reserving the Community Room should be directed to the Head of Circulation Services.

Does the Library have any public display space available?
Two glass display cases located in the Library lobby and one bulletin board located in the main room of the Library may be reserved by individuals or non-profit organizations wishing to display artwork or information. The display cases measure 72" x 55" x 12" and the bulletin board display area measures 220" x 40". Any individual or organization placing items in the case must sign a Release from Liability Statement. Inquiries about reserving a display area should be directed to the Head of Circulation Services.

There is also a bulletin board in the lobby used to advertise programs and news with the Library, as well as community events. Flyers should measure 8 1/2" x 11" or smaller and all are subject to approval by the Librarian.

Lost and Found
Does the Library have a Lost and Found?
The Circulation Department maintains a Lost and Found for personal belongings left behind or mistakenly returned to the Library. If a misplaced item contains identification, every effort will be made to contact the owner. In instances when this is not possible, the Library will hold the article for sixty days. After that time, unclaimed items will be donated to a charitable organization or the Friends of the Library, as appropriate. Patrons are asked to contact the Circulation Department to inquire about missing items.

Computers and Internet Access
Does the Library have computers I can use?
Yes, the Library has 9 computers that are used primarily for Internet use and 5 computers that are not connected to the Internet for public use. The public computers provide access to a suite of Microsoft Office™ products. Public Use Computer Policy

Can I Use the Internet at the Library?
Yes, the library has 9 workstations with Internet access and a suite of Microsoft Office™ products, 7 workstations in the Adult Services Department and 2 in the Youth Services Department. According to the Internet Use Policy, you must have a valid public library card (library cards from other libraries are accepted after input into our database). The Library uses an automated reservation system to manage use of the Internet workstations. Reservations are made in ½ hour increments. Workstations are networked to a color laser printer. All printouts are $.10/page.

Does the Library provide wireless access to the Internet?
The Library provides free wireless access to the Internet for those users who have a wireless-enabled computer. There is no log-in or password required. The user must agree to a click-through wireless internet usage agreement.

Office Equipment Use
Does the Library have copiers?
The Library has two photo copiers for public use. The black and white photo copier by the Adult Services desk costs $.10/copy. The photo copier by the Circulation desk will produce color or black and white copies. Black and white copies are $.10/copy and color copies cost $.25/copy.

Does the Library have a public fax machine?
At this time, the Library does not provide faxing services for the general public.

Does the Library have a public scanner?
At this time, the Library does not provide a scanner for public use.

Does the Library have a microfilm/fiche reader and printer?
The Library does have a microfilm/fiche reader-printer. The Library can request specific reels of microfilm for you or you may bring in your own film or fiche. Black and white printouts are $.10/each. Please inquire at the Adult Services Desk for more information.

Friends of the Carol Stream Public Library
Who are the Friends of the Carol Stream Public Library?
The Friends is a non-profit organization that provides support for the Library through membership fees, fund-raising events and special projects. Their efforts create community support for existing Library programs, provide direct financial help and volunteer assistance, sponsor programs designed to add to the cultural life of the community, and encourage gifts, memorials and endowments.

The Friends run an ongoing used book sale in the Library lobby, as well as additional larger book sales during the year. They sponsor quarterly membership meetings which in the past have included craft programs, author presentations and poetry readings.

How do I become a Friend of the Carol Stream Public Library?
Joining the Friends is easy. Complete a Membership Registration Form, indicating the level of membership and involvement desired. Being a Friend gives one the chance to contribute to the growth and well-being of our community and to share experiences with others who value the Library's contribution to our lives.

About the Library
What happens if patrons exhibit disruptive behavior while at the Library?
Disruptive behavior is not permitted. Children exhibiting disruptive behavior will be asked to leave the Library premises. Repeated offenses will result in suspension of Library privileges.

Disruptive behavior may include, but not be limited to: inappropriate or abusive language, fighting, running, failure to heed staff requests, loud talking, littering, jumping on furnishings, playing radios, public display of affection, and gathering in groups for no apparent purpose.

Acts of vandalism, theft, substance abuse, or other more serious disruptive behavior will be reported to the Police. For more information, Please see the Standards of Conduct

Can I smoke on Library property?
In compliance with the Smoke Free Illinois Act, smoking is prohibited within 15 feet of the entrance to the Library. For your convenience, the Library moved the ashtray by the front door to the side of the front walk. Thank you for your cooperation. [410 ILCS 82/15 eff. 1-1-08]

How do I get a job at the Library?
Employment applications are available at the Reception Desk. When received these are forwarded to the Human Resources Administrator. For additional information contact Fran Venegas, fvenegas@cslibrary.org.

What job opportunities are available at the Library?
Circulation clerk, Part-time position: (approximately 20 hours a week)
Candidate must be available daytime, evening and weekend hours. Assist with Circulation Services including check out, check in, patron registration and shelving. Must have High School diploma or equivalent. Starting at $9.89 an hour, depending on qualifications.

Circulation clerk, Part-time position: (approximately 12 hours a week)
Candidate must be available evening and weekend hours. Assist with Circulation Services including check out, check in, patron registration and shelving. Must have High School diploma or equivalent. Starting at $9.89 an hour, depending on qualifications.

Apply in person or contact Fran Venegas fvenegas@cslibrary.org by May 9, 2008.

What is the history of the Carol Stream Public Library?
In September 1962, the Carol Stream Public Library began in a room in the Village Hall located at 397 Blackhawk Drive. Books, magazines, furniture and shelves were all donated by residents. The present library building opened to the public in January 1978. The Library's online circulation system and card catalog were initiated in 1983. Space expansion and reconfiguration projects were carried out in 1989/90, in 1995, and again in summer 2002, bringing the Library to its present full-capacity layout. The Library installed a local area network (LAN) in 1993 which has made it possible to offer a range of computer services to the public that continues to grow as technology changes.

Freedom of Information Act
What is the Library's Mission Statement?
It is the mission of the Carol Stream Public Library to satisfy the library service needs of a changing community and to provide its members with informational, educational, cultural, and recreational resources.

What is the operating budget for FY2008?
The total amount of our operating budget for FY2009 is $4,062,891. Funding sources are property and personal property replacement taxes, state and federal grants, fines, charges, and donations. Tax levy information is available in the Freedom of Information Act publication.

How many people are employed by the Library?
The Library employs 26 full-time employees and 31 part-time employees.

What organization exercises control over the Library's policies and procedures?
The following organization exercises control over our policies and procedures: The Board of Library Trustees of the Village of Carol Stream, which meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Library.

Its members are: Barbara Siegman, President; Robert Ranck, Vice President; Mary Hudspeath, Secretary; Robert Douglas, Treasurer; Jim Bailey, Thomas Arends and Leslie Shambo.

How do I request records from the Library?
The Freedom of the Information Act publication has detailed information on the types or categories of records maintained under our control that available for requests. Certain types of information maintained by us are exempt from inspection and copying. The publication also includes the request process and a Freedom of Information Request form.