1. Using the Library
  2. Using the Library
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Can I use my CML library card at other libraries in central Ohio?

Yes, you can use your library card to check out materials and access services at libraries throughout central Ohio without having multiple library cards.

Participating libraries include:

  • Bexley Public Library
  • Columbus Metropolitan Library
  • Grandview Heights Public Library
  • Marysville Public Library
  • Pickaway County District Library
  • Pickerington Public Library
  • Plain City Public Library
  • Southwest Public Libraries
  • Upper Arlington Public Library
  • Wagnalls Memorial Library
  • Worthington Libraries

Services and programs vary, so check with each library before you go.
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Why do I have to create a username for the catalog?

It's a one-time registration process so you can utilize social aspects and other new features of the catalog.

After creating a username, you can continue logging in to the catalog using your library card and PIN just as you have in the past.
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How do I get a library card?

Any Ohio resident can get a library card. There are two ways to get one:

  1. In library: complete an application at a designated computer. Bring a photo ID.
  2. Online: complete the Library Card Application. Your card will be mailed to you.

A parent or guardian, with photo ID as described above, must sign the application for minors (ages 17 and under). If child is not present, identification must be shown for the child, such as birth certificate, social security card, insurance or welfare card, or most recent report card.

Kids 17 and under can also sign up for a Kids Card, which allows them to check out or reserve up to five age-appropriate books. No parent or guardian signature is required. Ask a staff member for more information.
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What are the loan periods, borrowing limits and fines for materials?

Loan Periods:

  • Books: 21 days
  • Magazines and Other Print Materials: 7 days
  • Fiction DVDs: 7 days
  • Nonfiction DVDs: 14 days
  • Audio Books: 21 days
  • Music: 14 days

Borrowing Limits:

  • Books, Magazines and Other Print Materials: 50 items
  • DVDs and Videos: 10 items
  • Audio Books and Music: 30 items combined

Fines on Materials:

  • Beginning Jan. 1, 2017, Columbus Metropolitan Library will no longer charge fines for overdue materials. Click here for more information.
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How do I request library materials?

Click the "Place a Hold" link in our catalog and follow the on-screen instructions. You can request up to 37 items in a combination of formats. Print items not found in our catalog may be requested using Interlibrary Loan. You can also call us at 614-645-2275 and we will place up to 5 requests for you.

You can also suggest items for the library to purchase through our catalog after logging into your account and choosing "Suggest a Purchase".
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How do I renew materials or check the status of my requested items?

The library makes renewing easy. We automatically renew your eligible* books, CDs and DVDs.

You can sign up for email account reminders at any of our library locations. You can also check My Account anytime for due dates. 

*Items will not be renewed if:

  • Another customer places a request on that item.
  • The item has reached its maximum number of renewals (10 for CML items; other library systems' items may vary).
  • Fines on the account have reached $10.01.
  • Your account activity has been blocked.
  • The item is an eBook.

Not all material can be automatically renewed. 

To renew items yourself, 24 hours a day, use My Account or call 614-645-2275 and select option 1 for our automated service. Have your library card number and PIN handy.

 

*Don't miss emails from us: add notices@columbuslibrary.org to your Approved Senders list, check your Spam Folder if you aren't receiving notices and keep your email address up-to-date in My Account. 

 
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How can I pay library fines?

You can pay fines the following ways:

  • At any library location by cash, check, credit or debit card
  • Online with a major credit card: go to My Account and have your library card number and PIN handy
  • By phone with a credit or debit card: call 614-645-2275 and speak with a library staff member
  • By mail: send check with library card number noted to: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Attention: Circulation, 96 S. Grant Ave., Columbus, OH 43215
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How do I pay for lost or damaged items?

Pay for lost or damaged items by calling 614-645-2275 or by visiting any library location.
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What if my card is lost or stolen or I need to change my contact information?

Please call 614-645-2275 or visit any library location. You are responsible for all items checked out on your card, so please report changes as soon as possible. There is no charge for replacing your card.
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What are the libraries' hours?

Hours vary between locations. Visit our Locations page for hours and holiday closings.
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What computer services does the library offer?

All of our locations have computers and printers for customers to use if they have a valid library card. Customers may have an unlimited number of computer sessions each day if no one else is waiting. Guest access of 1 session per day is available to out-of-town visitors who have proper identification.

Printers cost 10¢ per page for black & white and 50¢ per page for color.

Call 614-645-2275 for more information.
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What special services does the library offer to teachers?

We offer an Educator Card for anyone who shows proof they teach in a K-12 school or licensed childcare center. The Educator Card allows you to borrow Teacher Collections and other materials for your classroom without using your personal card. Call 614-645-2275 for more information.
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How do I find and download eBooks and other digital materials from the library?

Use your library card to download eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, music and videos for FREE.

Finding Digital Formats:

There are 2 ways to find the library's digital materials:

  1. Search directly in our online catalog.
  2. Select Explore from the top bar of our site and click on eContent to select eBooks & Audiobooks, Magazines or Music & Movies. 

Downloading:

For step-by-step downloading instructions for popular eReaders and portable devices, go to Explore from the top bar of our site and click on Instructions under eContent.

To find out if a digital format is compatible with your device, view this list. We offer several different formats, but system and software requirements vary so please check the manufacturer's specifications. 

If you need more help, call us at 614-645-2275.
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What's the difference between lists and shelves under My Account?

Lists are created by customers to be shared with the greater catalog community or for their personal use.

Shelves are designed to track customer's personal reading history and what they would like to read in the future. Customers can choose whether to make their shelves public or private.
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What is Celebration of Learning?

Learn about Columbus Metropolitan Library Foundation's annual fundraising event, Celebration of Learning.
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What if I didn't find the answer to my question here?

Call us at 614-645-2275 or visit our Contact Us page for more ways to contact the library.