Policies

Registration
See also the PCLS Patron Registration Policy.

All borrowers must be registered and must have a current library card to borrow library materials. Materials cannot be checked out until a Library card is issued.

Patrons must fill out an application form to apply for a Library card. Applicants under 16 yrs. old must have a parent or guardian give their consent on the application form before a new card can be issued.

In order to obtain a free Library card, patrons over 16 yrs. old must be a resident of a signatory county or municipality of the Plum Creek Library System (PCLS), or must own property therein. They must produce identification, such as a driver’s license or student ID at the time of application and, if necessary, proof of address. To renew a Library card, a patron must clear all outstanding fines and bills and update their information.

Anyone who lives outside of the Plum Creek Library System and has a valid library card from his or her home library and resides in an area that has signed the MN Library Reciprocal Borrowing Compact is also eligible for free library service.

Persons who are residents of other states or residents of communities in Minnesota that do not participate in the MN Reciprocal Borrowing Compact may purchase a nonresident library card for $5.00, which will be good for three years.

Cards may also be issued to businesses, institutions or organizations at no charge. The patron registration shall be signed by the owner, administrator or person in charge. A list of persons allowed to use the card shall be included in the patron registration notes. All patrons are required to present their card (or patron card number if they are residents of the Plum Creek Library System) in order to check out library materials.

Loan Periods
Books may be checked out for 14 days and may be renewed once, by phone, email, or on-line, unless a hold has been placed on them. Further renewals will need to be approved and completed by library staff. Books in popular demand (best sellers, etc.) may be checked out for the 14 day loan period, but will not be renewed because of patron demand.

DVDs may be checked out for 7 days. There is a limit of 4 DVDs per card holder. 2 New Releases may be checked out per household.  The librarian will have discretion to alter this quota on an individual basis. DVDs may be renewed once, by phone, email, or on-line, unless a hold has been placed on them. Further renewals will need to be approved and completed by library staff.

Puppets, activity kits, puzzles, etc. may be checked out for 21 days and will follow the same rules for renewal as books.

Mobile hotspots may be checked out for 21 days. Renewals are not allowed.

A maximum of 45 items may be borrowed by a patron in good standing, provided the items are returned promptly and they have no unpaid penalties.