Frequently Asked Questions

 

   

Frequently Asked Questions

This is the place to get answers to questions which you've always wondered about:

 How do I get a library card? Is there a fee? Can I return this book to another library? What do I do if my library doesn't own a particular title? Do the public libraries have videos? What should I do if my books are overdue but I don't have enough money to pay the fines today? All these and more are answered in the section that follows.

  • How do I get a library card? How much does it cost? Library card application forms are available at any public library in Hawai`i. The first card is FREE for Hawai`i residents and members of the military and their dependents with military I.D. and a copy of orders. Don't lose it -- a replacement card is $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for minors (less than18 years of age). Non-resident library cards cost $25.00 for the first and any replacement cards. A 3-month visitor card is available for $10.00. Here's more info about library cards.

  • Do I have to return my books to the same library where I borrowed them? What about cassettes, compact discs, and videos? You may return books to any public library in Hawai`i. After hours, books may be returned in the library's book drop. Audiovisual materials are more fragile and cassettes and compact discs should be returned to the circulation counter since heavy books can damage them in the book drop.

  • How can I get access to the public library system's online catalog of books and other materials? The Hawaii State Public Library System Catalog is available at http://ipac.librarieshawaii.org.

  • I forgot what books I borrowed and what titles I put on hold. How can I find out? Check 'my account' where you can see what materials you have borrowed, what items you have reserved, and any fines or other library card alerts.

  • How much are fines?

    Overdue Fines for Adults (18 years and older):

    • Overdue fine: $0.25 per item per day
    • Maximum fine per item: $7.50

    Overdue Fines for Minors (less than 18 years of age):

    • Overdue fine: $0.15 per item per day
    • Maximum fine per item: $4.50

    Overdue Fines for Videos (Adults and Minors):

    • Overdue video fine: $1.00 per video per day
    • Maximum fine per video: $30.00

    Fines Threshold: The maximum fines threshold is $10.00. You will not be able to use your library card if you have fines or charges of $10.00 or more.
    Here is more information about library fines and fees.

  • I don't have money to pay for my fines today. Should I keep my overdue books?
    Nope! Return your overdue library materials as soon as possible to stop additional fines from being charged against your account. Pay your fines and other fees as soon as you can. However, please note that the maximum "fines threshold" is $10.00. This means that you will not be able to use your library card if you have fines or charges of $10.00 or more.


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