The list below represents a collection of questions we encounter on an almost daily basis here at the library. We are constantly updating and revising the questions (and answers), so be sure to check the page often.
- How do I get a library card?
- Bring your driver's license or picture ID with a current address to the circulation desk and we will be happy to provide you with a card. If your ID has an old address, you may bring other documentation of your current address (such as a utility bill).
- Is my Dauphin / Lancaster / Lebanon County card valid here?
- We can use your existing card if we import the number into our system. However, we will need to see a driver's license or picture ID with your current address to register your card.
- If I forget my library card, can I still check out materials?
- No, you must have your library card with you when you check out.
- Can't you look up my information on the computer if I forget my card? Please? Pretty please?
- How long may I borrow materials?
- Most books and audio books may be checked out for 21 days.
- Videos, DVDs and music CDs may be checked out for 10 days.
- Loan periods for interlibrary loan materials are set by the lending library.
- How do I renew items?
- You may either log on to your account and renew materials online or call us during business hours.
- Items may only be renewed one time
- Items placed on hold by another patron may not be renewed
- How do I place an item on hold?
- You may either log on to your account and place an item on hold online or call us during business hours
- Holds for popular items are filled on a first-come/first-serve basis
- How do I request materials from another library?
- You must fill out an interlibrary loan request either online or at the library.
- New items (materials published within the previous 6 months) are not available for request
- Not all libraries are willing to lend audio or visual materials
- How much are fines?
- .25 / day for books, audio books, music CDs.
- .50 / day for interlibrary loan materials
- $1.50 / day for videos and DVDs
- Is the Hershey Public Library part of the Dauphin County Library System?
- The Hershey Public Library exists independently of the DCLS. While we collaborate with Dauphin County libraries on a regular basis, we are two separate systems.
- Does the HPL offer FAX services?
- No, we do not have a public fax machine. We will be happy to provide you with a list of local business that offer fax services.
- Does the HPL offer wireless Internet access?
- Yes, HPL provides free wireless Internet access for patrons and guests. Please read our Wireless FAQ page for details.
- What types of media can I use on the HPL computers?
- You can bring in materials on 3.5" floppy disk or USB "flash" drives. We do not allow material to be brought in on CD.
- I can't login to my account from home. What's the problem?
- It's possible you have a stop on your account, either because your registration has expired or you have accumulated fines. Please call the library for assistance.
- What specialized material on Hershey and Derry Township does the HPL own?
- The Hershey Room in the HPL houses the Pennsylvania Collection, which contains a variety of materials on local history.
- Does the HPL provide office supplies?
- We are happy to lend you a pencil or a piece of scrap paper, but we cannot regularly supply paper, tape, and other supplies due to budgetary constraints.
- Do you have read-alouds/storytimes for children?
- Yes, the Children’s Services Department has a year long schedule of read-aloud programs for children from birth – kindergarten. Preregistration is required for these free programs. The schedule is available on the website or in paper form.
- Do you have special programs for homeschoolers?
- Homeschooled children are welcome at all of the Library’s children’s programs (and appropriate adult programs) We encourage homeschool parents to contact the Children’s Librarian (this should be an email link) to schedule sessions tailored to their children’s needs and interests.
- At what age can my child get a library card?
- This decision is made by the parent/guardian. A child may obtain a card whenever the parent/guardian feel the child is able to handle the responsibility, although, the parent/guardian is ultimately responsible for any fines or lost book charges.
- How many books may I check out?
- There is no limit to the number of books someone may check out. There might be a limit to the number of books in a certain subject area that may be checked out if there is a school project. In general, however, if you can carry them, you may check them out.
- Whom should I contact regarding meeting room reservations?
- The contact person is Chris Gawron, Circulation Services Coordinator, tel: 533-6555 x3710
- How much does it cost to print documents from public access computers?
- 10 cents per page for black and white copies, 50 cents per page for color copies. All printing must be pre-paid at the circulation desk.
- When is the first notice sent for an overdue item?
- The first overdue notice is mailed to the patron 14 days after the due date.
- I've never been in the library on a weekend before. What should I do when all the computers are in use?
- You must place yourself on the automated waiting list to guarantee access to a computer when all are in use. If you have questions on this procedure, please see a staff member.
- How can my teen be involved in your library?
- Teens may join the Teen Advisory Board and engage in activities that interest them. Contact Christine Walsh, Children's Librarian, at 533-6555, x3708.
- If a tree falls in a forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound?
- No. The falling tree produces sound waves which are not converted into sound until received by organs specifically for this purpose, i.e. ears.
