Registration Policy

Library cards are issued at no cost to all residents of New Madrid County. All persons who borrow library materials from any branch of the New Madrid County Library are required to sign an application card. Application cards are available at the circulation desk in all branches. The signature of an adult constitutes an agreement to abide by rules set forth by the New Madrid County Library regarding use of library materials and signifies responsibility for any fines, fees, damages, or loss of materials which may result from borrowing library materials. All borrowers under the age of 18 are required to have the signature of a parent or guardian on the application card.

Temporary Card

A temporary card may be issued to an individual residing temporarily in New Madrid County. The person requesting a temporary card will need to provide identification and proof of permanent residency as well as proof of temporary residency. Cards will be issued for a period of up to 90 days and will allow check out of two items plus Internet access.

Circulation Procedures

Library books and audio books circulate for a period of 14 days with renewal privileges. Videotapes and magazines circulate for a period of three days with renewal privileges. Vocational (schools) loans may be made at the discretion of the Director. Reserve material (material on hold by someone else) circulates for a period of 14 days with no renewal privileges.

Adult patrons may have ten items (books, audiobooks or magazines, or three video tapes) on loan at one time. Juvenile patrons may borrow a total of five items. No one under 16 may borrow video tapes.

First time borrowers are limited to one item. When that item has been returned on time, the limit will go up to the normal number.

Damaged or Lost Materials

Patrons are responsible for all borrowed library materials. Patrons are expected to pay list price for lost or damaged items, however, there will be no charge for items lost through an Act of God such as fire, tornado, etc. Patrons will be given a receipt for any items that are paid for and refunded the list price should an items be returned in good, usable condition. The amount charged for damaged materials depends upon the value of the item and the degree of damage.

Requested Materials

Materials not contained in this collection can often be obtained through inter-library loan. Any patron may request purchase of library material. All requests will be evaluated in accordance with the selection policy. Materials are also loaned within all seven branches. Books will be delivered and picked up on Tuesday and Friday. Materials checked out in any branch can be returned to any branch.