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Frequently Asked Questions

CONTACT INFORMATION

How can I contact the Library?

Mailing Address:

Sterling Municipal Library
Mary Elizabeth Wilbanks Avenue
Baytown, Texas 77520

Phone: (281)427-7331 / Fax: (281)420-5347 / email: smlib@sml.lib.tx.us

How can I make a suggestion?

Using our online Feedback Form, please be sure to include your contact information if you want us to respond.

How can I donate to the Library?

Patrons of the Library may make donations for the purchase of materials in honor of loved one's accomplishments or in memory of a loved one. Each book donated will contain a commemorative plaque. Memorial and Honorarium forms are available at the Circulation Desk or by download below.

LIBRARY CARD

How do I get a Library Card?

Fill out a simple form while in the library. A registered borrower assumes full responsibility for materials and fines charged to his/her card.

  • No age or residence prerequisite on borrower's cards.
  • An applicant must present a valid photo ID.
  • Parental signature on the application is required when the patron is under the age of seventeen.

How long does a Library Card last?

Three years

What if I lose my Library Card?

Lost cards should be reported promptly. The charge for a replacement card is one dollar.

What if I change address?

Please notify the library when you change address.

Can I check out materials if I don't have my Library Card with me?

Yes, just present your photo ID at the Circulation Desk.

May I use my card at other public libraries?

Library cards issued by the library can be used only to borrow materials from Sterling Municipal Library.

BORROWING MATERIALS, FINES, RENEWALS AND RETURNS

How long can I keep borrowed Library Materials?

  • Books - Three weeks.
  • Audio Books - Three weeks.
  • Audio CD's - Three weeks.
  • VHS Tapes - Three weeks.
  • DVD's - Seven days.
  • Software Sets - Three weeks.

How many items can I check out?

  • Books - No limit.
  • Audio Books - No limit.
  • Audio CD's - No limit.
  • VHS Tapes - No limit.
  • DVD's - Three (3)
  • Software Sets - No limit.

How can I renew materials I have checked out?

Checked out items can be renewed online using the Patron Information and Self Renew feature on our Catalog or in person. The patron must bring the item they wish to renew at the library, if they are renewing in person. If there is someone else waiting to use the item then it renewal is not allowed.

  • Books - can be renewed for another 3 weeks.
  • Audio Books - can be renewed for another 3 weeks.
  • Audio CD's - can be renewed for another 3 weeks.
  • VHS Tapes - can be renewed for another 3 weeks.
  • DVD's - No renewal.
  • Software Sets - can be renewed for another 3 weeks.

How much is an overdue fine?

  • Books, VHS Tapes, Audio Books and Audio CDs - 10¢ per day.
  • DVDs - one dollar per day.

Is there a grace period for overdue items?

All items must be returned promptly no later than due date.

How will I know if I have fines or overdue items?

  • Check online using the My Library Card feature.
  • In person, please bring your library card or any valid identification card.
  • On the phone, please have your Library Card in hand before making a call.
  • For materials that are overdue as long as two weeks, the Library mails notices listing the overdue items.
  • If you provided us an email address when you registered or if you entered your email address on the Patron Information and Self Renew page, you will be notified through email.

How do I get my notices through email?

Using the Patron Information and Self Renew feature, modify your personal information and add your email address. All courtesy notices sent by the library will now go to your email. Bills for overdue items will be received by US mail.

What if the library does not have the material I need?

If a particular book or magazine article you wish to read is not in our collection, don't give up; we may be able to get it for you from another library. Make such requests at the reference desk for any title or any subject. We cannot guarantee that every request will be met, but we give a total effort.

FACILITIES

Does the library provide computers for Internet Access?

Yes, the library provides computers with Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Publisher) and Internet Access. A library card or visitors pass is required to use these computers.

Terminals for adults and for children are available for online catalog and internet searches. During busy hours, use of the terminals is limited to sixty minutes per person.

All terminals are filtered to comply with Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA). Unfiltered access is provided, upon request, to patrons conducting educational research.

Please read our Internet Use and Guidelines for more information.