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Library

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1. How do I get a library card?

To register for a library card you must come to the library with photo identification and proof of your local mailing address and complete an application. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must sign your application.

2. Can I get a library card if I don’t live in Richland County?

If you live outside Richland County, but in our region, and regularly do business in or travel to Sidney, you can get an out-of-county library card. You have to bring photo ID, proof of your mailing address, and pay the out-of-county fee. The charge is $10/year for individuals or $15/year for a family.

3. What are your hours?

Winter Hours - September to May

• Monday, Friday, Saturday - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm


• Tuesday - Thursday - 11:30 am - 7:00 pm


• Sunday - Closed

Summer Hours - June to August

• Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm


• Wednesday, Thursday - 11:30 am - 7:00 pm


• Sunday - Closed

Holiday Closings

• New Year's Day


• Martin Luther King Jr. Day


• Presidents Day


• Memorial Day


• Independence Day


• Labor Day


• Columbus Day


• Veterans Day


• Thanksgiving Day


• Christmas Day

4. How many items can I check out?

DVDs are limited to 5 per household. We do not limit the number of books, magazines or books on CD. If you have fines over $2.00 on your account, all fines must be paid and overdue items renewed or returned before you can check out additional items.

5. Can I renew materials over the phone?

Yes, items can be renewed over the phone, just call us at 433-1917 during our business hours. Items cannot be renewed if another patron has placed a hold, and we may limit renewals on high-demand items like DVDs and other popular or new materials.

6. Does the library offer fax services?

Yes, the library provides fax services. Faxes may be sent and received at the library.

7. Does the library have a copy machine?

Yes. Copies are $0.10/page for black & white, or $1.00/page for color.

8. How much are library fines?

A complete list of fines is available at the front desk at the library.

9. How long can I keep books checked out?

Books and magazines are checked out for 28 days, except in the case of new or high-demand items, which generally have a two-week check-out. If your item has a limited check-out, you will be told when you take it.

10. How long can I keep DVDs checked out?

DVDs are checked out for 1 week. They can generally be renewed twice unless another patron has placed a hold on the item.

11. If I have fines can I still check out books?

Yes, as long as the fine is not over the $2 limit. If you are over the fine limit, the entire fine must be paid before any items can be checked out.

12. Can I return books after hours?

Yes, there is an outside book drop just outside the front door.

13. Can I check out magazines and newspapers?

Yes, all magazines and newspapers may be checked out except for the most current copy. The most current copy is restricted to in library use only.

14. What happens if I lose a book or other item?

If you lose a book you will be charged the replacement cost of the book plus a $5 processing fee.

15. Does the library accept donations?

Yes, the library greatly appreciates donations of books, audio tapes, videos, etc. Please bring your donations to our circulation desk during our business hours. Once items are donated they become the property of the Sidney Public Library.

Items not added to our collection are either shared with other libraries in Montana or placed on our for sale rack. You can get a receipt for donated books to use for taxes.

16. Does the library have computers available for public use?

Yes, there are computers for patrons and visitors to use for web browsing and word processing.

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Library - For Adults

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1. Do you have eBooks I can download?

Yes! We are a part of Montana Library2Go, so you have access to over 10,000 audio and eBooks that you can download anywhere. You can always bring your eReader or MP3 player into the Library and we'll help you get started.
Learn more about Montana Library2Go

2. What if I forget my PIN or lose my card?

You can get a replacement card at the library for $1. We can reset your PIN over the phone, or when you come to the Library.

3. Can I place a hold on an item online?

Yes, through our online card catalog(link). You will need to log in with your card number and PIN, search for the item you want and then click on the red PLACE HOLD link. We will call you when your item is available.

4. Another FAQ

The Montana State Library

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Library - For Kids

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1. Can my child have a library card?

Yes, but you will be responsible for any items they borrow, including any fines or replacement fees. We encourage parents to use the library with their child to help them find and check out appropriate items. If you only want your child to be able to use our computers, we can give them a computer-only card.

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Library - For Teens

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1. Can I get a library card?

If you are under 18, your parents must sign your library card application, but you can certainly have your own card. As long as you live in Richland County, it's even free! Just make sure your parents bring photo ID and proof of their LOCAL mailing address.

2. Do you have eBooks I can download?

Yes! We are a part of Montana Library2Go, so you have access to over 10,000 audio and eBooks that you can download anywhere. You can always bring your eReader or MP3 player into the Library and we'll help you get started.
Learn more about Montana Library2Go.

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Library - Library Resources

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1. Do you offer any classes?

Yes, we offer classes on computers, technology and other topics. We also offer one-on-one help for Kindles, Nooks, iPads and other tablets/eReaders any time we are open. The best way to find out about classes and other events is to subscribe to mailing list, or follow us on Facebook.

2. Do you have computers for public use?

Yes, we have 12 public computers. There is no fee, but you must bring your library card or get a guest pass at the front desk. If you live in Richland County and plan to use the computers for more than one month, you will need to get at least a computer-only library card.

3. Do you have databases with magazines and articles I can search from home?

Yes. As a library patron you have access to databases with engine repair diagrams, back issues of Consumer Reports and other magazines and articles on a wide array of topics. We even have search portals designed to be safe and easy to use for kids in elementary through high school. If you need the password, just visit the library or call 433-1917.

4. How do I get a library card?

You can get a library card for free if you live in Richland County. You just need to bring Photo ID and proof of your current LOCAL mailing address to the library. If you just want to use the public computers, you only need Photo ID.

Non-resident cards are issued to those who live in the region, but outside Richland County. The cost is $10/year for individuals/couples and $15/year for families.

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Library - Online Research

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1. Online Research FAQ

Answer!

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.