Q: How do I get a library card?

A: Library cards require an application, along with picture identification and proof of address. Acceptable forms of Identifications: Driver’s License, CA ID, out of state ID, Military ID, Student Body Card and Passport, Mexico Consular Id.

Q: How many items can I check out?

A: You can check out a maximum of 20 items (for example: 12 books, 3 DVDs, 3 books on CD and 2 magazines). DVD can be checked out only on an adult library card.

Q: May I check out books if I forgot to bring my library card?

A: No, library card is required to check out books.

Q: Where can I return my items?

A. You can return your items to any library in the San Joaquin Valley Library System.

Q: How long can I keep my items?

A: Loan periods vary depending on the material.

Books, Audio Cassettes and Audio CDs - 3 weeks

Encyclopedias, Magazines, DVD and Comics - 1 week

Q: How can I renew my items and how many times?

 A: You can renew your items in person or by phone with any of your Madera County Libraries.  You can also renew online anytime through the San Joaquin Valley Library System's catalog, library card number and pin number required. You may also renew 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by calling the library's automated telephone renewal service at 559-444-0412 or 866-290-8681 (toll free), library card number and pin number will be required. 

Q: How much are overdue fines?

A: For adult items you will be charged 25 cents per item per day. For children's material you will be charged 15 cents per item per day. The maximum fine you will be charged per item is the cost of the item.

Q: What happens if I don't pay my fines?

A: If you owe more than $5, or have unpaid fines over 12 months old, Madera County Library will refuse service until the fines are paid. Delinquent accounts are regularly sent to a collection agency.

Q: What happens if I lose an item?

A: You will be charged the full cost of the item, plus a $5 processing fee.

Q: If an item is checked out, can I be put on a waiting list?

 A: Yes, you can request the next available copy and have the item be reserved for you. Contact your nearest branch or go to your account online to place a request.

Q: Does the library have photocopy machines?

A: Yes, all Madera County libraries have photocopy machines, 15 cents per page black and white

Q: Does the library have public fax machines?

A: Madera Headquarters, Madera Ranchos, and Chowchilla have a public fax machine available for $1 for the first page and $.25 for each additional page.

Q: Does the library have computers for public use?

A: Yes. All branches have public computers. You must have your library card to gain access to them.

Q: How long can I use the library's public computers?

A: You are limited to 60 minutes per day; if computers are available you will receive automatically an additional 30 minutes. If you need more time contact your librarian. 

Q: Does the library have laptops?

 A: Yes. Laptops are available strictly for online job applications/resumes; school related testing/research; government documents. 2 hours use only.

Q: Can I print from the public computers?

A: Yes, 15 cents per page black and white and $1 a page for color

Q: Can I save a document to the public computers?

A: We don’t allow you to save to the public computer for your own protection. If you save something to the computer which has personal information on it and then forget to delete it before you log out anyone who uses that computer can access your information. However you can bring a USB and save your document or borrow one from your librarian if available.

Q: Does the library have a typewriter for public use?

 A: There is a typewriter for public use at all branches.

Q: How can I get a book that is not in my local library?

 A: You can apply for an Inter-Library Loan from any member library within the San Joaquin Valley Library System. Your local library can do this for you, or you can use the online catalog. You will need your library card number and pin number to gain access to your online library account. 

If the title you want is not found in ValleyCat, your local library can apply for an Inter-Library Loan. This involves borrowing from a library not in the San Joaquin Valley Library System. It can take several weeks to receive an Inter-Library Loan. Madera County charges $5.00 to process an Inter-Library Loan, and there may be additional charges imposed by the lending institution.   

Q: Can I ask a reference question over the phone?

A: Yes, just call your local library.

Q: Does the library have a room for public meetings?

A: Yes, call for information or to make a reservation to the following branches.  

Madera Headquarters, (559-675-7871), Chowchilla Branch (559-665-2630) and Oakhurst Branch (559-683-4838)