How do I get a library card?

Stop by the library and fill out a form and you will have your card within minutes, or you may download the form here and bring it with you to the library. Or, receive a temporary card online by visiting the CLAMS website and filling out the eCard form. 

 

Do I have to be a Barnstable Resident to get a card?

No! Anyone working, residing, owning, property, or living in the state of Massachusetts may receive a library card with full borrowing privileges.

Just visiting?

No problem, come see us at the library and we'll get you a visitors card!

 

Where else can I use my library card?

Any library on Cape Cod that is part of the CLAMS network. You may also use your card number from home to access your CLAMS account online, where you can request materials and access ebooks. If you do not have a PIN, please call or stop by the library so we may add one to your record.

 

What can I borrow with my card?

Our materials include books, DVDs, audiobooks on CD, museum passes, magazines, vinyl records, and equipment. Through the CLAMS Libby website you may also borrow ebooks and downloadable audio books.

 

How long may I keep things?

Books, audio books, and magazines check out for 2 weeks and DVDs for 1 week. The check-out period for museum passes varies.

 

How can I renew materials I'd like to keep longer? 

Most items will renew automatically up to 2 times, provided no one else is waiting for them.

Want to double check or renew early?

Log in to your online CLAMS account using your card number and PIN (call the library if you don't yet have a PIN), call the library at 508-362-2262, or stop by and see us!

 

Do you have a book drop? 

Yes, right next to the front door. 

 

What if my items are overdue? 

No fines are charged on overdue materials.

 

My dog ate the DVD I had checked out. Now what?

Most items that are lost or damaged materials must be replaced. Please call us for the best way to do this.

 

How will I know when my requested items are available for pickup at the library? 

We will email or call you - whichever you prefer.

 

When I logged into my CLAMS account online, I got a message saying, "See Librarian." What's up?  

The most likely culprit is an expired account.

Library cards must be updated every three years, and yours may be due for renewal. Simply call the library and we will take care of it.

Alternatively, if you have fines on your card totaling more than $25, or you have a lost or billed item on your card, the card may be blocked. Please call the library so that we can help you.

 

I can't find the book I want in the CLAMS catalog. Is there any other way to get it?
Try searching the Commonwealth Catalog which allows you to borrow materials from libraries throughout the state of Massachusetts. You will need a valid CLAMS card and PIN to order and the item(s) will be delivered to your home library.  If you are still unable to find what you need, contact us and we will try to find it for you.

 

Do you have a computer I can use?

Yes, we have a computer, linked to a printer.

 

Does the library have wifi?

Yes, there is an open wifi connection available throughout the library. No password is needed.

 

I'm having trouble figuring out how to download ebooks. Can you help me?

We sure can! Set up an appointment, and we'll do our best to get you set up.

 

Do you have a copy or fax machine?

Yes, both are available. Faxing is $1 per page. Fees apply for copies/prints made in excess of 5 pages.

 

Do you have meeting space?

Our library is quite small so we do not have room for a large group, but small groups are welcome. Please contact the library or fill our our Facilities Use Request Form to make a request. 

 

Do you take book donations?

We accept donations of gently used, clean, recent books, as well as audiobooks, music CDs and DVDs. Books of local interest are also welcome. Some are used in the library, many go to our book sale area. We cannot accept dirty, moldy or musty books, nor textbooks or encyclopedias. These materials are accepted at the recycling area of the Barnstable Transfer Station. If you have more than a box-worth of material, please call ahead to make drop-off arrangements.

 

Do you have a library "Friends" organization? 

Yes! Click here for more information. New members are always welcome.

 

Is Whelden a "town library"?

Each of the seven village libraries in Barnstable are private entities, managed by a board of trustees. The Town of Barnstable partially funds each library through grants, but the remainder of our budget must be made up through donations, gifts, and fundraisers.