FAQs • Sterling Heights, MI • CivicEngage

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Library Check-In & Check-Out Information

1. Does the library have a self check-out computer?: No, the library does not have computers available for check out.

2. I’m going on vacation and don’t want to lose my place on the hold list. What can I do?: Patrons can suspend their holds or have a librarian do it for them. For more information, contact the Circulation Services at 586-446-2665.

3. Any charge to check out videos or DVDs?: No, there is no charge to check out videos or DVDs.

4. How are residents notified if they have overdue materials?: Residents are notified by email or phone. Residents with email addresses in their library account are also notified before items are due.

5. Can I place a hold from home?: Yes, instructions are available at all service desks.

6. How long do I have to pick up my holds?: You have 7 days to pick up a hold.

7. How can I find out what I have on hold?: You can check your patron record through the library website. You will need your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Please see a staff member at the Circulation desk about getting a PIN. You must show valid identification.

8. Can I get a book if it is not on the computer?: Yes, we can usually interloan from any library in Michigan.

9. Where are books held?: Books are normally held on the self-serve hold shelves along the wall behind the first information desk you see when you enter the library.

10. How do I get a library card?: You need to fill out an application and show your driver's license with current address. Residents of Sterling Heights are eligible for library cards.

11. Can my children get library cards?: Yes. In order to receive a card, minors under the age of 18 must be present and have a parent or legal guardian with them who will fill out an application and show a driver’s license.

12. How much is a replacement library card?: A replacement library card is $3.

13. I forgot my card. Can I still check out books?: You can check out 3 items, 3 times a year with proper identification.

14. Are there any limits on the number of items you can check out?: There is a limit of 10 for DVDs, 10 audiobooks, and 10 music CDs.

15. Where can I use my card?: You can use your card at any library in Macomb County. You may also use your card at the Harper Woods and Troy libraries. If you have a MiLibraryCard sticker on the back of your card, you can use your card for print materials at any MiLibraryCard library in Michigan.

16. How and where can we return materials?: Our outside and curbside drop boxes are open 24 hours a day. You may also return materials at the checkout desk and in the lobby when we are open. All our materials may be returned to other public libraries in Macomb County, plus Troy Public Library and Harper Woods. We accept most materials from other public libraries in Macomb County, Troy, and Harper Woods.

17. Can I renew my materials?: Yes, there are a number of ways to do this. You can renew your items 24 hours a day by logging into your online account or using our automated phone renewal system at 586-203-8725. Both services require your library card number and PIN. You can also renew in person at the checkout desk, or you can call the library Monday through Saturday during business hours. Sterling Heights materials can be renewed twice, and only if no one has the items on hold.

18. How much are fines and where can I pay them?: Fines are $0.25 per day per item up to a maximum of $5 for paperbacks and $15 for hardcover books and audiovisuals. Fines can be paid at the Circulation desk, by mail, or at any other library in the Suburban Library Cooperative. We accept cash, check or credit (Discover, MasterCard, and Visa).

19. Do we have a grace period for fines?: There is no grace period for fines.

20. I'm going on vacation and would like my books checked out for a longer period. What can I do?: The library does provide up to 6 weeks for extended loans. Please see the Circulation desk for assistance.