Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to have a library card to use the computers?

  • Nope! We have guest passes you may use. Please ask for one at the Circulation Counter. 

Do I have to have a library card to visit the library? 

  • Everyone is welcome in our building, with or without a library card. You can attend programs, browse books inside the library and utilize other resources. 

What is a Lucky Day item? (AKA, how can I get new releases?)

  • Lucky Day items are extra copies of popular books and movies we purchase that are available on a walk-in basis. If you come in and find it on the shelf, it's your lucky day! 

What does it mean to Place a Hold?  (AKA, how do I order items from other libraries?) 

  • We share items with 54 libraries in our system. This means you can get items for free from other libraries! If something isn't on our shelf, you can Place a Hold (which is a fancy way of saying 'order') from another library. You can ask a staff member to do this for you, or you can place holds via LinkCat, our online catalog.  

How many items can I have checked out at one time? 

  • 100! 

Can I check out items from the display shelves? 

  • Absolutely! Please do!

How old does a child need to be to get a library card? 

  • This is up to the parent/guardian. Whenever you think they are ready, we'll happily give them a card. 

Do you have overdue fines? 

  • We don't. However, if an item is more than 30 days overdue, the system assumes the book is lost and automatically places a replacement fee on your account.  This fee is removed when the item is returned. 

Can I check out ebooks and eaudiobooks with my library card? 

  • Yes! Use the free Libby app to view/borrow these items. (Note: if you live in a county outside of the South Central Library System, such as Iowa County, you will need to use a library card from your hometown library.) 

Can I get a Mount Horeb Library card if I don't live in Mount Horeb? 

  • You sure can! 

Do you have study rooms available? 

  • We have two small rooms (one fits 2 people, one fits up to 6 comfortably) that are available on a first come-first served basis. They may be used for up to 2 hours - or longer if no one is waiting.
  • There is also a meeting room that can be reserved. Find out more here.