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FAQs

How many items can I check out at one time?

Up to 500 materials may be checked out on a card at a time. You may check out only 5 DVDs owned by Perkiomen Valley Library, however, we do not limit held items belonging to other libraries. There is no limit (save the 500 limit total) on books, magazines, or audios. However, if you choose to use your MCLINC card at another library, limits may apply.

Can I use my card at another library?

Yes! Your library card, with the blue Access sticker, grants you use at the majority of Pennsylvania Libraries.  Check with the library of your choice for additional information.

Can I return my book at another library?

Yes!  Most libraries throughout Montgomery County and beyond will accept our books and return them to us.  Check with the library of your choice for additional information.

How do I renew a book?

Assuming an item can be renewed (most items have two renewals, however some items have none: check with staff for more information), there are three ways to renew an item.  You can visit the library in person, call us at 610-287-8360, or log into your MCLINC account here and follow the prompts for book renewal.

Automatically renew eligible materials that are checked out on your library card–without you having to lift a finger! Autorenewal will apply only to materials owned by MCLINC.
When will my item(s) automatically renew? We will attempt to renew your borrowed item(s) three days before the due date. If successful, your loan period will be extended for 21 days from the existing due date, an additional full loan period. There are several ways to find out an item’s due date:

  • Check the courtesy notice emailed to you 3 days before the due date. (For this option, opt-in to receive email notices if you have not already.)
  • Log in to your online account.
  • Call your library branch or bookmobile during operating hours.

Why won’t my item Automatically Renew? An item will not automatically renew if:

  • Another library user has requested it.
  • The item is from another MCLINC library that currently does not offer auto-renewal.
  • The item has reached its maximum number of renewals (2 times for most items).
  • Your account is expired.
  • The item is a digital item, such as an eBook from Overdrive.
  • The item is an InterLibrary Loan from a library outside of MCLINC.

Can I opt out of Automatic Renewal? Automatic renewal is an automatic process that applies to all MCLINC cardholder accounts. Please return items if you are finished with them.

How much are the fines?

Fines vary, based on the item.  DVDs accrue $2 per day up to 7 days, adult materials are 15¢ per day, and juvenile materials are 10¢ per day.

How long can I keep a checked out item for?

Due dates vary, based on the type of item check out. PVL loan periods can be found here.  Or, check your receipt or online account for a comprehensive list of due dates.

How do I reserve a book?

Call the library or reserve your book online by logging onto your MCLINC account here and following the prompts to reserve a book.

Who can get a card?

If you reside in one of our service areas, you can get a card, with an Access sticker, granting you access at most Pennsylvania libraries.  Those in Montgomery County but outside our service area can receive a card without Access, providing use at our Main Library or our sister Branches in Red Hill, Royersford, and Conshohocken. Children under the age of 18 need a parent’s/guardian’s signature on the registration form. Please come in to the library with identification showing your current address to register yourself or your child(ren).  Please note: Residents of Lower Salford MUST apply to the Indian Valley Public Library first.  After you receive your IVPL card, your card can be added to our MCLINC database.

What if my card expired?

Library cards expire every three years.  Please visit the Library with a current form of identification (including your current address) and we will update your card.

What if I lost my card?

You can get a new replacement card free. Please visit the Library with a current form of identification (including your current address) and we will update your account and issue you a new card.

Does a card cost anything?

Cards are free to those in our service area and in Montgomery County.  Outside of Montgomery County, cards are $30 for one year.

How do I get a library card?

Stop in at the library and fill out a quick and easy application to get your card. Please bring your photo ID (preferably your PA driver’s license) with your current address for verification purposes. 
Click here for a printable copy of the application form.
Click here to apply online (adults only).  Your new card will be mailed to you with further instructions.

Is the hall available to rent?

Yes! View more information about hall rental here.