Frequently Asked Questions
How can I join the Friends of the Somerville Public Library?
The Friends of the Somerville Library are always looking for new members. For more information, visit the Friends page or to find a Membership Application click here.
Can I look at the library catalog from home over the Internet?
Yes. The library has an online catalog which can be accessed by clicking here.
What are the fines for books and other materials?
• There are no fines for overdue books, CDs, books-on-tape, and cassettes.
• There is a fine of $1.00 per day for videos and DVDs.
• Interlibrary Loans are $0.25 per day if they are late.
Can I renew items by telephone?
Yes, but with a few exceptions.
Books may be renewed as long as the book is not on reserve for another person.
Videos and DVDs are not renewable.
How long can I borrow an item?
Except for the following material, all library materials have a 28 day circulation period. The others are:
New Audio Media
(books on tape, books on CD, music CD's)—14 days
New Adult Fiction and Non-Fiction—14 days
Periodicals—14 days
Puppets—14 days
Puzzles—14 days
Entertainment Videos and DVD's
(no fee; $1.00/day fine)—5 days
What are the library's borrowing policies?
Most patrons may borrow any of the library's materials, and may take out an unlimited amount of materials.
RVF, LMXAC and MURAL members have no restrictions on the type of materials they may borrow.
Children, under the age of 18, may take out specially designated family Videos and DVDs.
There is a limit of 25 videos or DVDs for each patron.
Patrons who live in temporary housing are limited to taking three materials out on their card at once.
Where is my library card valid?
If you have a Somerville Library card, you may use it at all of the libraries listed below. Please note that other libraries' lending policies may be different. Read more...
Can I use my card at the Somerset County Library?
The Somerville Public Library is not a member of the Somerset County Library system. Somerville library cards cannot be used at any branch of the Somerset County Library system.
How do I get a library card ?
In order to get a Somerville Public Library Card, you must come to the Somerville Public Library with valid identification. Types of acceptable identification include the following:
1. A valid driver’s license (with correct address)
2. Official postal mail, including utility bills
3. Work ID, if it has your name and either your current address, or work address.
4. Non-residents who go to school in Somerville should have a school ID, report card, or class schedule.
Who can get a library card at Somerville Public Library?
Somerville Public Library Cards are available for FREE to the following individuals:
1. Residents and taxpayers of the Borough of Somerville, as well as employers and employees of Somerville businesses and local government.
2. Non-resident students or teachers, who go to school/teach in Somerville Schools.
3. Non-residents who are 60 years of age or older
4. Members of either the Raritan Valley Federation of Libraries, or the Middlesex and Union County Reciprocal Associated Libraries.
5. If you live in any of the temporary housing listed below, you may get a library card for free, but with limited access, as shown below. Read more...