FAQs • Anoka County, MN • CivicEngage

How do I place a hold on library materials?: Library materials can be requested and set aside for you at the library location of your choice. If you would like to request a title owned by the Library, search for the specific item you want to borrow in the online catalog and click the "Place Hold" button next to that item. You will be asked for your library card barcode and PIN to place the hold. After entering this information, you will be prompted to choose a library location where you want the item sent. If all copies are checked out, you will be added to the list of people waiting. A notification will be sent to you via email, computer-generated phone call, or by mail when the material is available for pick-up.

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Library

1. How do I get a library card?: You can be issued a new library card if you are an Anoka County resident or property owner and do not currently have an account. You may register for a library card in person at one of our libraries by inquiring at the service desk. Please bring identification showing your current address. You may also apply for a library card online. See our Library Cards page for more details. Library Cards

2. How do I place a hold on library materials?: Library materials can be requested and set aside for you at the library location of your choice. If you would like to request a title owned by the Library, search for the specific item you want to borrow in the online catalog and click the "Place Hold" button next to that item. You will be asked for your library card barcode and PIN to place the hold. After entering this information, you will be prompted to choose a library location where you want the item sent. If all copies are checked out, you will be added to the list of people waiting. A notification will be sent to you via email, computer-generated phone call, or by mail when the material is available for pick-up.

3. How do I renew my materials?: Most Library materials may be renewed four times for an additional 21 days per renewal. You can renew materials online by logging in to My Account or by calling the phone renewal line at 763-324-1590. Materials requested by other borrowers or loaned from libraries other than Anoka County Library cannot be renewed.

4. What's my PIN and how do I get one?: Your library card barcode and PIN give you access to computers, online databases, and your library account information. PINs can be assigned when you register for a new card or by asking library staff. If you have an email address in your library record, you can request a new PIN by selecting "Forgot my PIN" on the My Account login screen and entering your library card number. If you do not have an email address associated with your account, you should contact your local library and speak with a staff member to set a new PIN. If you want to change your PIN, you can do so by logging in to My Account, selecting the "Personal Information" tab, and then the "Change PIN" option. If you do not remember what your PIN might be, staff will often assign you a PIN that is the last four digits of your phone number.

5. How do I update my account information?: You can update the phone number and email address in your account by visiting or calling any of our libraries, or by emailing the Library. Include in your email your first and last name, your library card number, and your new phone number and/or email address. Changes to your physical address must be made in person at a library.

6. How can I get a job with the Library?: Anoka County Employee Relations handles most job openings for the Library. Some internships and temporary positions are listed on our Employment page. Employment

7. How do I find an Anoka County library?: Visit the the Locations & Hours page for directions, open hours, and information about each library. Locations & Hours

8. What materials can I check out at the Library?: The Library provides free access to books, eBooks, audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, magazines, maps, newspapers, business directories, large print books, book club kits, power meters, and even bike locks at a few libraries. The Library offers online databases with full-text articles and newspaper archives. Use these for auto repair, homework, family trees, and other research projects. See our Books & More page for links to our many available resources. Books & More

9. How can I make payments for my fines or fees?: Payments are accepted online through the library catalog by logging in to My Account. The minimum online payment amount is $5.00. There will also be an additional 50 cent convenience fee added to each transaction by the service provider. Payments can be made using credit card, cash, or check at any library service desk, and credit card payments can also be made at library check-out stations. Payments cannot be made by telephone. My Account

10. What are the borrowing rules when checking out library material?: Review the Borrowing Policies page for full details. Most material can be checked out for three weeks and renewed up to four times if no others are waiting. Borrowing Policies

11. Does the Library offer student exam services?: The Anoka County Library does not administer or proctor student tests and exams.

12. How can I ensure I'm receiving emails from the Library?: Email notices for catalog items are sent from sirsi@magellan.sirsi.net. Please add this address to your contacts to ensure that you will receive your notices. All notices or automated calls from the Library are courtesy reminders only. You may want to check your account ahead of time to avoid unforeseen circumstances such as a hold preventing you from renewing an item or email failure. You may also want to check your junk folder for missed emails.