Beginning with any current items checked out on your library card that are due on July 1, 2023, the library will automatically renew items that are eligible for renewal. Items with a due date prior to July 1, 2023, will be not be considered for the new auto renewal procedure.
What is automatic renewal (auto renewal)?
Items that are eligible for renewal will now renew automatically on your account. Three days before items are due, the library system will check your account for eligible items to renew and then renew them automatically. The new due date will extend from the original due date based upon the checkout period for that item.
Which items do not automatically renew?
- Items that have already auto renewed 1x.
- Items that another patron has requested to borrow (items on hold for another patron)
- Interlibrary Loan items (items borrowed from another library)
- The following physical materials: passes, tickets, seeds, Makerspace items, board games
- Digital & streaming materials (e.g. eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines)
What items can automatically renew?
Most physical items (books, DVDs, audiobooks, etc.) are eligible for 2 auto renewals.
How long is an auto renewal?
Automatic renewal calculates the new due date from the original due date. No time is lost in the overall checkout periods. A full list of loan periods can be found on our website here.
How many times can I renew?
Library materials that are eligible for renewal may be renewed up to 2 times if no one else has placed the item on hold. Items will only attempt to auto renew for the first renewal. The second renewal must be done manually by logging into your account online or by contacting staff.
How am I notified of auto renewals on materials I check out?
Courtesy notices are sent by either text SMS or email 3 days before an item is due. If you’ve provided an email or phone number for SMS, you will receive a notification. Items will be grouped into two lists in these notices:
- Items that did not automatically renew with their original due date.
- Items that did automatically renew with their new due date.
You may also view items you have checked out by looking at your account online or contacting the library to check on your account.
Can I still manually renew materials when I want?
You can still manually renew materials 8 days ahead of the due date by logging into your account online or by calling the library.
Can I opt-out of auto renewals?
Not at this time.
How do I place an item on hold?
Placing an item on hold keeps an item from auto renewing for another patron if they currently have it checked out.
Log in to your account online using your library barcode and PIN. Search for the title or author of the item you would like to place on hold in the ‘Search’ box. Once you locate the item in the list of materials displaying, select the blue ‘Place Hold’ button. A pop-up box will open and you must select the blue ‘Place Hold’ button one more time. You will be notified by email or text message when the item is ready to pick up at the library.
More steps and information on placing holds can be seen by watching this how-to video: How to Place a Hold
You can also call the library at 712-323-7553, option 2. Have your account information ready, along with the name of the item you want to place on hold, and a staff member can assist you.