Mechanics’ Institute Library has re-instituted our maximum item limit and members can now have more items checked out at once! The Library allows up to 25 items to be on a member's account at any one time. This can be any combination of materials: books, DVDs, magazines, etc. (e-materials do not count towards this number), but there are limits for specific item types like travel guides and new books. In addition, while most items have a 4-week loan period, print magazines and new books can only be checked out for 2 weeks. Our current limits and loan periods are as follows:
Checkout Limits and Loan Periods
*Items may be renewed only when no hold is in place for the title.
Renew Materials
Items may be renewed online, by phone, or in person at the Circulation Desks.
Requesting Materials to be Held
Materials in the collection may be requested and held for pickup at the Circulation Desk on the 2nd floor. Members may place holds for items that are checked out or may request that an item on the shelf or in the basement be held for them. Items that are not in the library's collection may be requested through Interlibrary Loan.
View your library account
Members are responsible for all items checked out on their Library cards. No one else may use your library card without your written permission. Overdue, damaged, and lost items will be subject to fines and charges. Your Library account is confidential.
Lost Material Fines and Account Suspension
Replacement fines are applied when materials are lost, damaged, or exceed the maximum loan period, plus a processing fee.
Library privileges are suspended when fines and/or fees total $30 or more.