How do I get a Deerfield Library card?
Deerfield residents can obtain a library card upon display of a valid government issued photo-I.D. and proof of their current address within incorporated Deerfield. Residents of Riverwoods, Bannockburn, and unincorporated Deerfield are not taxed for library services but may choose to purchase them. Purchased card-holders are entitled to the same services as taxed card-holders.
Can a family member pick up my reserved Library material?
Patron account security and confidentiality are of the utmost importance to us here at the Deerfield Public Library. Because of this, items that are placed on reserve are attached specifically to the account of the patron placing the hold, and can ONLY be checked out using that patron’s library card. If you wish to send a family member to pick up an item on reserve for you, they must have your library card with them in order to do so.
Can I use my Deerfield Library card at other libraries?
Yes, your Deerfield Public Library card can be used at other libraries in Illinois as well! In order to register at other libraries as a reciprocal borrower, you must have a current Deerfield Public Library account in good standing. When registering at other libraries as a reciprocal borrower, be prepared to present them with your Deerfield Library card, and a valid government-issued photo-I.D.
How can I access my account from home/How can I see what is on my account?
For your convenience, we offer multiple ways to access your library account without having to leave the comforts of home. Your account information can be obtained by clicking on “My Account & Catalog.” By accessing your online account, you can search and place holds on items, view and renew materials currently checked out, and even rate and review items.
We also have a mobile app that allows you unlimited access to your account from your mobile device with some convenient extras such as the ability to scan the barcode of any book to see if we currently carry the item in our collection.
To download our mobile app, visit the App Store of your Apple or Android device or visit this site on your mobile browser. You will need your library card barcode in order to access your account online or through our app. Of course, if you simply need to renew items, or have specific questions or issues, feel free to give us a call at (847)945-3311.
Can I see a list of material I previously checked out?
In order to see a list of material you previously checked out, you must opt-in to your reading history. Your reading history will begin on the day you opt-in. This video will show you how to turn it on.
Can I receive an email or text message when my items are due?
In order to best accommodate our patrons, we offer either phone or email notifications based on preference. If you would prefer to receive email notifications (in which you would be notified of upcoming due dates, overdues, and item reserves) simply inform a member of our patron services staff, and we will set it up for you.
For text message notification, sign up here for Shoutbomb, our text messaging service.
How long do my items check out for (i.e., loan periods)?
See this chart for loan periods, limits, renewals, and fees.
Can my library material be renewed?
See this chart for loan periods, limits, renewals, and fees.
How much are overdue fines?
Effective December 1, 2020, Deerfield Public Library will no longer collect overdue fines.
Since the Library is no longer charging overdue fines, how will I be notified when my materials are due?
2 days before due: Courtesy notice will be received (email and text only).
2 days overdue: Notice sent.
7 days overdue: Notice sent.
14 days overdue: Notice sent.
21 days overdue: Notice sent and card is blocked. Until items are returned, patron will be unable to place holds, check out any materials, including the digital collection, or use the MakerSpace.
28 days overdue: Billing Notice sent for full replacement cost of item(s).
Why is there a charge on my account?
While the Library no longer charges overdue fines, borrowers are still responsible for any damaged or lost items. Patron cards are blocked at 21 days after an item is overdue. A bill is issued for the item at 28 days. Once the item is returned, the bill is removed from the account. A patron has 3 months to return an item.
Can I still be charged if I check out an item from a library that hasn’t gone fine free?
The lending library will determine charges for any lost or damaged item. Anything charged to the Deerfield Public Library by the lending library is passed on to the requesting patron. Overdue fines will not be assessed on materials from the lending library.
Why can’t I place holds?
There are a number of reasons as to why you may be unable to place a hold on an item. Those reasons include:
- Your card is expired
- There is a $10 or higher charge on your card.
- One (or more) items 21 days overdue
- Item may not be holdable
- You are a Reciprocal Borrower
- You have reached the maximum number of holds
Why is my card blocked?
Your card may be blocked for a number of reasons. Those reasons include:
- Your card is expired
- There is a $10 or higher charge on your card.
- One (or more) items 21 days overdue
How long do I have to return something?
A patron has 3 months from the billing date to return an item to the Library.
Why didn’t my items automatically renew?
Your item may not renew automatically for a number of reasons. Those reasons include:
- Your card is expired
- Item has hold
- There is a $10 or higher charge on your card.
- One (or more) items 21 days overdue
- Has already used all the renewals
What if I lose library material?
Lost Items: A borrower has up to 45 days to search for misplaced items before being required to pay for the replacement costs. Replacement costs vary depending on the item in question. Fees may be paid before the end of the three-month period; however, NO REFUNDS WILL BE GRANTED FOR FOUND ITEMS. The Library does not accept donations of like items in lieu of payment.
How do I renew my items?
All eligible items will automatically renew up to two times. See the following section for details, including a description of eligible items. If you choose to renew manually, the two-time limit still stands. You may renew from home by accessing your account via the website or mobile app, or by calling the library during our normal business hours. Items can also be renewed at the library by using our self-checkout stations or by visiting the patron services desk.
What does Automatic Renewal mean?
The Library circulation system will automatically attempt to renew eligible items up to two times. This will occur in the morning when the courtesy notices are automatically prepared and sent — between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. — two days before the item is due.
What items are not eligible?
- Any item on hold for another patron, Lucky Duck books, new videos, and items acquired through interlibrary loan.
- Digital items (e-books, e-audiobooks, streaming movies, and music) are not affected.
How will I be notified?
- Patrons who have an email address in their account will get an email courtesy notice listing which items were not automatically renewed, and which items were renewed and the new due date.
- Patrons who receive text message notices will receive a courtesy notice listing the items that were NOT renewed.
- Patrons who do not use e-mail or text as their notification preference will not get an automated message although their eligible items will be renewed.
How can I sign up for a courtesy notice? You can:
- Ask in person at the library, ask by phone (847-945-3311), or update your patron account online: https://dpl-encore.deerfieldlibrary.org/iii/encore/myaccount/
- Learn how on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCHWy9mWwpg
- You can always check your due dates using the “My Account” link on our website.
Who has Automatic Renewals?
All accounts have Automatic Renewals; there is no way to opt out.
What happens if I returned my item in the drop box overnight but it still automatically renewed?
We will check-in the drop boxes as usual in the morning; you can always check “My Account” to make sure it has been removed from your account.
Will this reduce my fines?
Effective December 1, 2020, Deerfield Public Library is no longer collecting overdue fines.
Does the Library have wireless access for my laptop?
Yes, the library offers free Wi-Fi to all library patrons that can be accessed by your laptop or mobile device.
Can I print from my laptop?
Yes, patrons can actually print remotely from their laptop in the library, or even from home!
Print jobs that have been sent to our print release station will remain there for up to 4 hours.
To get started sending a print job please see our information on printing here.
How can I book a meeting room or study room at the Library?
We have three meeting rooms available for use by not-for-profit groups. Each seat about 35, with the ability to expand into one large and welcoming space. Technology includes hearing assistance, projectors and sound system, and other amenities. Study rooms, seating 2-6 people, are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Click here for full details.
