FAQs

Q: How can I get a library card?

A: You can apply for a library card in person at any Cheltenham branch or MCLINC library. You can also apply for a card online. For instructions and more information, see “… get a library card?” on the “How do I” page.

Q: I’ve lost my library card. How do I get a replacement?

A: If you have lost or damaged your card, visit any Cheltenham branch with your photo ID to obtain a new card.

Q: How can I check out materials at one of the Cheltenham libraries?

A: To check out materials, visitors must have a valid CTLS library card, a library card from another library in the MCLINC consortium, or a Free Library of Philadelphia library card that has been registered with CTLS. Please visit the circulation desk for more information about obtaining a card or click here to apply for a card online!

Q: My books are almost due. How can I renew them?

A: Items will typically auto-renew twice, unless they are nonrenewable or have been requested for a hold. Items can also be renewed from home through your library account online, over the phone or in-person at any Cheltenham branch or MCLINC library. Please note that your library card number will be required to access account information/renew materials over the phone.

Q: I don’t see what I’m looking for on the shelf. Can I request it from somewhere else?

A: You can request an item from home via the online catalog or in-person at any Cheltenham or MCLINC branch. If the item is not available within the MCLINC consortium, you can place an interlibrary loan. For instructions and more information, see “… request library materials?” on the “How do I” page.

Q: I forgot my card at home. Can I still check out materials?

A: If you have forgotten your library card, you may check out materials with valid photo identification such as your student ID or driver’s license.

Q: Can I borrow museum passes from the library?

A: Yes, but borrowing is limited to Cheltenham residents only. Please check with your branch for availability. A list of the museum passes available at the Library can be viewed here. (updated 1/24/24)

Q: Can someone else pick up library materials for me?

A: Because of Pennsylvania’s library confidentiality law and our computer system, holds can only be checked out with the requester’s library card. If you would like someone else to pick up your held materials, they must have your library card with them to complete the transaction.

Q: How much does it cost to print?

A: The cost is $0.20 per page for black and white and $0.50 per page for color.

Q: Can I use the copy machine, scanner, or fax machine? How much does it cost?

A: Scanning is free. Photocopies are $0.10 per page. Faxing is available at the Elkins Park and Glenside branches at $1.75 for the first page and $1.00 for each subsequent page. Availability of these services may vary by branch. Please contact your branch for more details.

Q: Can I come in to do work, read, use the computer, and/or use the library’s Wi-Fi if I am not a patron or do not have a library card?

A: Yes, everyone can visit our libraries and use the services available.

Q: Can I donate books?

A:  Our Friend of Library groups sell gently used materials to raise funds in support of our libraries. We are unable to accept donations of VHS tapes, audio cassette tapes, magazines, textbooks, and Readers Digests. Call your local branch to inquire about their needs and to arrange a drop-off or pick-up. Please do not put donated materials in the outdoor book return boxes or leave them outside the buildings.

Q: Can I book a meeting room at the library?

A: The Community Rooms at the Elkins Park branch and the Glenside branch may be reserved by filling out an application for use at the library branch. Before filling out an application, please review our Meeting Room Policies to learn who can book a meeting room, when meeting rooms are available, fees associated with booking a meeting room, and other important information.

Q: How can I apply to work in the libraries?

A: When the library is hiring, full job descriptions and downloadable applications will be posted here.

Other questions? Please contact your branch or email your question to ctllibsys@mclinc.org.