Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Your friendly neighborhood librarians have assembled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions - both general and on more specific topics - here on our website for your convenience. But we're also happy to answer your questions one-on-one at the Information Desks, by telephone, or by email, so please don't hesitate to ask!
Q: How do I get a library card?
A: Maryland residents from any county are eligible to sign up for a standard Talbot County Free Library card, free of charge. For details about what to bring with you, and about the other types of cards we offer, including our new Teacher Cards, please see the Get a Library Card page.
Q: What services does the library offer?
A: We're so glad you asked! The library offers many services both traditional and innovative, and we love getting the word out about them. Please visit our Library Services page for details.
Q: How many and what kinds of items can I borrow? For how long?
A: You can find that information and more on our Borrowing Library Materials page.
Q: Can I take photographs or shoot video in the Library?
A: Yes, with permission from the Library Director. You can find more information in our Filming and Photography Policy. From time to time, library staff may photograph or record patrons for library promotional purposes. Please notify the staff if you do not want you or your child to be photographed or recorded.
Q: What if you don't have a copy of the book or other item I want to borrow?
A: Depending on availability, we may be able to have a copy sent here for you from another library in the state through Marina, our Interlibrary Loan system. If you're looking for a recently released item, or one you feel it would be important for our library to own, please let us know about it through the Suggest a Title page.
Q: How do I check due dates on materials I have out? Can the due dates be extended?
A: You can check due dates and more through our library catalog's My Account feature, by signing in with your library card number and password. If you don't know your current password, you can have it sent to the email address associated with your account, or a library staff member can help you reset it.
Some types of library materials may be renewed (our term for extending the due date), depending on factors such as whether someone else has requested the item, whether you've renewed the item previously, and whether your account is in good standing.
If you're signed up to receive email notifications, our system will automatically renew items that are eligible for renewals. Otherwise, you can renew items manually through the My Account feature of our online catalog, or a staff member can assist you.
Q: What is the library's policy on...?
A: Our Library Policies page provides links to a number of policies of interest to our patrons. If you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
Q: I love my library! What can I do to help?
A: Thank you for asking! We're always happy to find community members willing to help make our library the best it can be. Your donations, participation with the Friends of the Library and the Library Foundation, as well as willingness to volunteer your time and talents can make a big difference in the level of service we're able to offer to our community. You can also spread the word to your friends, family and neighbors about all the great things the Library offers.
Q: What if I have more questions?
A: We have some more specialized FAQ documents you could check, including the following:
Or, we'd be happy to answer any additional questions you may have by email, over the phone, or in person. Please don't hesitate to ask!