Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I get a Library Card?
You can fill out a registration form at the library and bring with you an item with your current address on it, ie: driver's license, phone bill, car registration. We now have an online option to fill out, and you will have an active library card number and PIN number emailed to you for your use immediately. This means you will be able to instantly access ebooks and eaudio, place holds on item you want, and access online magazines and databases. You will have 3 weeks from your online registration date to come into your local public library and pick up your permanent library card or your record will be deleted from the system. You are now able to reserve museum passes with your online registration as well, so you can pick up your permanent library card and pass at the same time. This online option is only for NEW cards for adults only. Thank you.
Are Library cards free?
Library cards are free for first time registrants. If you lose your card there is a $2.00 replacement fee.
What if I live in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island or any other out-of-state residents can obtain a SAILS Library Network card in person for the low fee of $75 per card per year. Your card allows access to all Network privileges including online books and audio, and interlibrary loan. We charge out-of-state residents because we receive no compensation from the State of Rhode Island or any other state to provide public library service to their residents (while we do for residents in other Massachusetts towns). If you work in Plainville you are eligible to receive a no-cost library card by registering in person at the library with a copy of your paystub.
Can my child get a library card?
Children can get their own library card when they are able to write both their first and last name. Parents must come in with the child to sign the registration form. At this time children cannot obtain library cards through the online registration.
My library card is going to expire - now what?
Library cards expire once every three years to give us a chance to catch up with our customers. We want to make sure we have the most current contact information for you. If you get a notice that your card will expire - just give us a call at 508-695-1784 and we will verify your information over the phone and renew your card for another three years.
I'm moving out of town, what should I do?
You should treat your library card like a bank account and close the account before you leave. If you are moving out of the SAILS Library Network Area: come into the library, return your items, clear your account and give us your library card to dispose of. Your account will be deleted from the system, once it is cleared. If you are moving within the SAILS Library Network: then you can keep your card, but simply update your address and contact information at your new library.
Do you have an APP?
Yes, we do for android or apple.
rewew, request, join family cards, pay fines and fees - all right in the app (make sure your app background is blue - then you know you have the latest one)
How do I get notified when something is at the library for me or late?
The Plainville Public Library uses an automated system to notify you when items are late or when items come in for you. You can choose ONE way to be notified: automated phone call, text message or email. choose your preference now.
Email: If you specify e-mail as your method of notification you will receive e-mails regarding hold pick-up, and first and second notice of overdue items. The email message will contain the title of the overdue item or the item on hold for you, and the name of the library where the item is being held. Please note that some email programs and system servers may identify email from the Plainville Public Library as spam. To help ensure that you receive your notices, it is helpful to place our email address in your contacts list or address book: [email protected]
Text Message: You will receive a short text message informing you that you have an item available for pickup at the library or something is overdue. Standard message and data rates may apply.
Telephone: By selecting telephone notification, you will be sent an automated call regarding hold pick-up and overdue materials . The automated caller will tell you only that you have something on hold or overdue at the Plainville Public Library, not what the item is.
Notices are generated and sent daily Monday through Saturday, for your convenience. The library wants to make sure that you receive all of your notices as quickly as possible however, the delivery and receipt of a circulation notice is not guaranteed. Factors not under the direct control of the library can hinder delivery of e-mail, telephone messages, and notices sent by mail; therefore, the Plainville Public Library is not responsible for circulation notices that do not reach patrons in a timely manner. Please make sure that e-mail addresses, phone numbers and mailing addresses are kept current. You may update or alter your preferred method of notification at any SAILS Library Network location.
What is my PIN number?
Your PIN number is usually the last 4 digits of your phone number. You can call the library and ask for your PIN number if that doesn't work. Or just click on the forgot your pin link at the top of the catalog.
My dog ate the book - literally - what happens now?
If you lose or damage a book you need to replace it. You can do this 2 ways for Plainville items: 1. Buy an exact copy and bring it to the library with the $5 processing fee OR 2. Pay for the cost of the item at the library plus the $5 processing fee. Items from other towns must be taken care of in accordance with that library's policy and some may not accept replacements. And payments must be made by check payable to that library.
What happens if I lost the case (or the cd booklet, etc)?
This is the same as losing or damaging an item, because what you brought back to us is not the whole item it was when it left. So please understand we need to make it whole, so another person can borrow it. If you lose the booklet for a game or cd it is $5. To replace a broken case for a cd, dvd or game it is $5. If you notice any damage to an item when you check it out, please call us right away.
Where is your Book Drop?
The book drop is a silver door located to the left of the entrance. A secondary book drop is located at the Wood School on Route 106. Simply turn right into the parking lot as you enter the Wood School driveway.
The Plainville Library worked with the Plainville Schools to locate the box a safe distance from the buildings with easy drive-up access. The Friends of the Plainville Public Library, Inc. purchased the box, and the school department completed the installation January 1, 2006. The Library will be picking up the items from the box everyday before 8am. Your items will be checked in as if they had come back on the previous pick up day.
Can I return movies in your book drop?
Yes! We allow all materials to be placed into the book drop, except kits or big puppets because of their size (they'd get stuck).
Do I have to bring back the books I checked out in Plainville to Plainville?
You can return any SAILS Library Network item to any SAILS Library Network Library at any time. So, you can return Plainville items to any SAILS library.
How many movies can I take out?
You are allowed to check out as many movies as you like. We have no limits.
Can I pay my fines with my debit card or send you a check?
You may pay online with your debit or credit card when logged into the SAILS Library catalog. View your account and click on Fines. Then click on PayFinesPLA and accept the terms and conditions, as listed below.
• This transaction is protected by SSL certification, a protocol for transmitting data securely.
• This payment system complies with PCI-DSS standards (PCI-DSS stands for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards.)
• SAILS Library network and participating public Libraries do not collect or store any personal information or credit or debit card processing data.
• Library fines and fees are cleared automatically from your library account during the payment process.
• If your account continues to display outstanding fines and fees please contact the library for assistance.
• A failed transaction may leave a pending charge on your account. These “pre-authorized “ amounts normally clear within 24 hours
• There is a $.85 credit card processing fee per transaction not per individual fine paid.
• Technical requirements and services are the sole responsibility of SirsiDynix Inc and ProPay Inc.. By proceeding you agree to accept and assume all risks and responsibilities for the losses and damages that may arise from your use of this payment service and release the SAILS Library Network and its member libraries from all liability.
We accept cash, check or money order for payment of lost books, fees or fines at the library You may send in your check payment by mail by printing out this form and mailing it to the library. All checks should made payable to the Town of Plainville. You can also pay your bill at any SAILS Library Network Library.
Do you have Video Games?
We circulate Wii, Nintendo Switch, DS games, PS3, PS4, Xbox360 and XboxOne games. Games go out for 2 weeks at a time, with no renewals. Late fee is $1 per day. Limit of 2 video games per family. There is a fee of $5 is the instruction booklet is not returned with the video game.
What if you don't have the book I want?
The Plainville Library is a member of the SAILS Library Network of over 50 libraries and chances are someone will have what you need. If not we can search for your specific item in the Massachusetts Commonwealth Catalog, and if it is available we can have it shipped to us. Still not in Massachusetts? Please see us at the desk and we can try to get it from somewhere in the United States.
What is AUTO-Renewal?
Beginning July 1, 2019: Customers are granted one renewal as long as there are not conditions or holds that prevent the auto-renewal from happening. The new due date is calculated by adding another full loan period to the current due date. This means customers can potentially keep books for a total of 8 weeks, audio items and new books for 4 weeks and DVDs for 2 weeks. Of course, materials can be returned anytime within the check-out period at the library or in our book drops by the library door or in the Wood School parking lot.
Customers will receive a notice informing them of the new due dates of any renewed items, and any items that could not be renewed three days prior to their original due dates.
You can fill out a registration form at the library and bring with you an item with your current address on it, ie: driver's license, phone bill, car registration. We now have an online option to fill out, and you will have an active library card number and PIN number emailed to you for your use immediately. This means you will be able to instantly access ebooks and eaudio, place holds on item you want, and access online magazines and databases. You will have 3 weeks from your online registration date to come into your local public library and pick up your permanent library card or your record will be deleted from the system. You are now able to reserve museum passes with your online registration as well, so you can pick up your permanent library card and pass at the same time. This online option is only for NEW cards for adults only. Thank you.
Are Library cards free?
Library cards are free for first time registrants. If you lose your card there is a $2.00 replacement fee.
What if I live in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island or any other out-of-state residents can obtain a SAILS Library Network card in person for the low fee of $75 per card per year. Your card allows access to all Network privileges including online books and audio, and interlibrary loan. We charge out-of-state residents because we receive no compensation from the State of Rhode Island or any other state to provide public library service to their residents (while we do for residents in other Massachusetts towns). If you work in Plainville you are eligible to receive a no-cost library card by registering in person at the library with a copy of your paystub.
Can my child get a library card?
Children can get their own library card when they are able to write both their first and last name. Parents must come in with the child to sign the registration form. At this time children cannot obtain library cards through the online registration.
My library card is going to expire - now what?
Library cards expire once every three years to give us a chance to catch up with our customers. We want to make sure we have the most current contact information for you. If you get a notice that your card will expire - just give us a call at 508-695-1784 and we will verify your information over the phone and renew your card for another three years.
I'm moving out of town, what should I do?
You should treat your library card like a bank account and close the account before you leave. If you are moving out of the SAILS Library Network Area: come into the library, return your items, clear your account and give us your library card to dispose of. Your account will be deleted from the system, once it is cleared. If you are moving within the SAILS Library Network: then you can keep your card, but simply update your address and contact information at your new library.
Do you have an APP?
Yes, we do for android or apple.
rewew, request, join family cards, pay fines and fees - all right in the app (make sure your app background is blue - then you know you have the latest one)
How do I get notified when something is at the library for me or late?
The Plainville Public Library uses an automated system to notify you when items are late or when items come in for you. You can choose ONE way to be notified: automated phone call, text message or email. choose your preference now.
Email: If you specify e-mail as your method of notification you will receive e-mails regarding hold pick-up, and first and second notice of overdue items. The email message will contain the title of the overdue item or the item on hold for you, and the name of the library where the item is being held. Please note that some email programs and system servers may identify email from the Plainville Public Library as spam. To help ensure that you receive your notices, it is helpful to place our email address in your contacts list or address book: [email protected]
Text Message: You will receive a short text message informing you that you have an item available for pickup at the library or something is overdue. Standard message and data rates may apply.
Telephone: By selecting telephone notification, you will be sent an automated call regarding hold pick-up and overdue materials . The automated caller will tell you only that you have something on hold or overdue at the Plainville Public Library, not what the item is.
Notices are generated and sent daily Monday through Saturday, for your convenience. The library wants to make sure that you receive all of your notices as quickly as possible however, the delivery and receipt of a circulation notice is not guaranteed. Factors not under the direct control of the library can hinder delivery of e-mail, telephone messages, and notices sent by mail; therefore, the Plainville Public Library is not responsible for circulation notices that do not reach patrons in a timely manner. Please make sure that e-mail addresses, phone numbers and mailing addresses are kept current. You may update or alter your preferred method of notification at any SAILS Library Network location.
What is my PIN number?
Your PIN number is usually the last 4 digits of your phone number. You can call the library and ask for your PIN number if that doesn't work. Or just click on the forgot your pin link at the top of the catalog.
My dog ate the book - literally - what happens now?
If you lose or damage a book you need to replace it. You can do this 2 ways for Plainville items: 1. Buy an exact copy and bring it to the library with the $5 processing fee OR 2. Pay for the cost of the item at the library plus the $5 processing fee. Items from other towns must be taken care of in accordance with that library's policy and some may not accept replacements. And payments must be made by check payable to that library.
What happens if I lost the case (or the cd booklet, etc)?
This is the same as losing or damaging an item, because what you brought back to us is not the whole item it was when it left. So please understand we need to make it whole, so another person can borrow it. If you lose the booklet for a game or cd it is $5. To replace a broken case for a cd, dvd or game it is $5. If you notice any damage to an item when you check it out, please call us right away.
Where is your Book Drop?
The book drop is a silver door located to the left of the entrance. A secondary book drop is located at the Wood School on Route 106. Simply turn right into the parking lot as you enter the Wood School driveway.
The Plainville Library worked with the Plainville Schools to locate the box a safe distance from the buildings with easy drive-up access. The Friends of the Plainville Public Library, Inc. purchased the box, and the school department completed the installation January 1, 2006. The Library will be picking up the items from the box everyday before 8am. Your items will be checked in as if they had come back on the previous pick up day.
Can I return movies in your book drop?
Yes! We allow all materials to be placed into the book drop, except kits or big puppets because of their size (they'd get stuck).
Do I have to bring back the books I checked out in Plainville to Plainville?
You can return any SAILS Library Network item to any SAILS Library Network Library at any time. So, you can return Plainville items to any SAILS library.
How many movies can I take out?
You are allowed to check out as many movies as you like. We have no limits.
Can I pay my fines with my debit card or send you a check?
You may pay online with your debit or credit card when logged into the SAILS Library catalog. View your account and click on Fines. Then click on PayFinesPLA and accept the terms and conditions, as listed below.
• This transaction is protected by SSL certification, a protocol for transmitting data securely.
• This payment system complies with PCI-DSS standards (PCI-DSS stands for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards.)
• SAILS Library network and participating public Libraries do not collect or store any personal information or credit or debit card processing data.
• Library fines and fees are cleared automatically from your library account during the payment process.
• If your account continues to display outstanding fines and fees please contact the library for assistance.
• A failed transaction may leave a pending charge on your account. These “pre-authorized “ amounts normally clear within 24 hours
• There is a $.85 credit card processing fee per transaction not per individual fine paid.
• Technical requirements and services are the sole responsibility of SirsiDynix Inc and ProPay Inc.. By proceeding you agree to accept and assume all risks and responsibilities for the losses and damages that may arise from your use of this payment service and release the SAILS Library Network and its member libraries from all liability.
We accept cash, check or money order for payment of lost books, fees or fines at the library You may send in your check payment by mail by printing out this form and mailing it to the library. All checks should made payable to the Town of Plainville. You can also pay your bill at any SAILS Library Network Library.
Do you have Video Games?
We circulate Wii, Nintendo Switch, DS games, PS3, PS4, Xbox360 and XboxOne games. Games go out for 2 weeks at a time, with no renewals. Late fee is $1 per day. Limit of 2 video games per family. There is a fee of $5 is the instruction booklet is not returned with the video game.
What if you don't have the book I want?
The Plainville Library is a member of the SAILS Library Network of over 50 libraries and chances are someone will have what you need. If not we can search for your specific item in the Massachusetts Commonwealth Catalog, and if it is available we can have it shipped to us. Still not in Massachusetts? Please see us at the desk and we can try to get it from somewhere in the United States.
What is AUTO-Renewal?
Beginning July 1, 2019: Customers are granted one renewal as long as there are not conditions or holds that prevent the auto-renewal from happening. The new due date is calculated by adding another full loan period to the current due date. This means customers can potentially keep books for a total of 8 weeks, audio items and new books for 4 weeks and DVDs for 2 weeks. Of course, materials can be returned anytime within the check-out period at the library or in our book drops by the library door or in the Wood School parking lot.
Customers will receive a notice informing them of the new due dates of any renewed items, and any items that could not be renewed three days prior to their original due dates.
What does State Certified Mean?
A State Certified Public Library is one who has passed the criteria set for by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for their population group. Plainville is in the 5,000 - 9,999 group. Which means the following:
1. We spend 19% of our total budget on Library Materials (books, magazines, movies, etc)
2. We are open a minimum of 25 hours a week.
3. We employ a certified Library Director.
4. Our Town appropriates the correct amount of money towards the running of the library. Which is the average of the last three years funding, mulitplied by 1.025 to get the amount to be spent for the following Fiscal Year.
5. We are open to all residents of the Commonwealth.
6. We do not charge for normal Library Services.
5. We submit the correct reports on time.
What benefits do we get from being Certified?
The Plainville Public Library gets many benefits from being certified.
1. We are eligible to apply for Federal and State grants, like the one that started our very popular Mother Goose on the Loose storytime for ages 0-2.
2. We get State Aid money in the amount of approximately $12,000 which we use to pay for Membership in the SAILS Library Network.
3. Our customers can borrow books, movies and more from any public library in the State, including items that are sent to us and those that they borrow in person at the neighboring library. Regionalization at its best!
4. You have access to thousands of magazine and newspaper articles online with your library card.
For more information on State Aid and Certification please go the the MBLC web site.
A State Certified Public Library is one who has passed the criteria set for by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for their population group. Plainville is in the 5,000 - 9,999 group. Which means the following:
1. We spend 19% of our total budget on Library Materials (books, magazines, movies, etc)
2. We are open a minimum of 25 hours a week.
3. We employ a certified Library Director.
4. Our Town appropriates the correct amount of money towards the running of the library. Which is the average of the last three years funding, mulitplied by 1.025 to get the amount to be spent for the following Fiscal Year.
5. We are open to all residents of the Commonwealth.
6. We do not charge for normal Library Services.
5. We submit the correct reports on time.
What benefits do we get from being Certified?
The Plainville Public Library gets many benefits from being certified.
1. We are eligible to apply for Federal and State grants, like the one that started our very popular Mother Goose on the Loose storytime for ages 0-2.
2. We get State Aid money in the amount of approximately $12,000 which we use to pay for Membership in the SAILS Library Network.
3. Our customers can borrow books, movies and more from any public library in the State, including items that are sent to us and those that they borrow in person at the neighboring library. Regionalization at its best!
4. You have access to thousands of magazine and newspaper articles online with your library card.
For more information on State Aid and Certification please go the the MBLC web site.