Using the Library

Frequently Asked Questions

We know you have lots of questions regarding our services. Along with you, we’re trying to adjust to our new reality in a way that keeps our patrons and staff safe. For the latest on what we are offering, please see Current Library Services.

In addition, we’ve provided answers to common questions below.

For information on our hours and locations or if you can’t find what you need, please visit the Contact Us page.

 

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Library changes due to COVID

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How do I use Curbside Services?

You can still do curbside pickups at all our libraries. No need to make an appointment – just arrive anytime during regular hours. Please call when you are outside the branch and a librarian will bring the materials out to you.

Are you still offering library programs?

Absolutely! We are offering a variety of online programs for kids, teens and adults, and also scouring the web for additional fun activities. We will slowly add back in-person programming as state restrictions are lifted.

You can find out more on our Online Library Programs page. Also see our online events calendar for a complete list of programs. 

What is the library offering online?

Glad you asked! You can check out eBooks and audiobooks, stream movies, and more using the library’s many digital resources. We also offer online library programs and finding fun activities for our kid, teen, adult, and Español communities. Find more information about our Digital Library here

Want to take a crafts class, get help studying for your GED, prepare for college admission exams, achieve your career goals, or learn computer skills or a new language? Check out Online Learning & Classes. Also, you can explore your family history, do some auto repair, or research an area of interest. For these and other projects, we have  Research Tools to help you get started!

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Can I reserve a meeting room?

Both of our small meeting rooms are available, first come, first serve. Our large meeting room is handled by reservation. Book your meeting now!

How can I get the latest library news and information?

Our website will have the most up-to-date information. We are posting our latest news on our home page, so be sure to check back regularly. If you would like more information on the library’s COVID-19 response, please click here.

We also announce many changes on our Facebook and Instagram pages as well. Our social media pages are open for all to view, no account or sign-in required.

We will continue to send out our Library Newsletter periodically with updates and information, so be sure to sign up if you haven’t.

Will WiFi still be available outside library buildings?

Yes, day or night, every day! Just be sure to practice good physical distancing (6 feet apart) if others are around.

When will you open again to regular hours and services?

We are currently open for Regular Library Services at all our branches.

The Hood River County Library District Leadership Team has developed the Hood River County Library District Roadmap to Reopening plan using recommendations from Governor Kate Brown, local health department officials, and the Oregon State Library. The plan involves re-opening the library in stages. We are currently in Stage 4.

The Hood River County Library District Leadership Team will approach each stage of reopening with careful thought and consideration to ensure the safety of the staff, volunteers and patrons. The library will reverse the order of the stages during the pandemic in the event of a local outbreak of COVID-19.

We will continue to follow guidelines from the Center for Disease Control, Oregon Health Authority, and Hood River County public health officials.

We really appreciate your understanding during these challenging times and all the support you’ve expressed. We can’t wait to throw open our doors and see all of you again!

Using your library card & account

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Can I apply for a library card online?

Yes! If you live in Hood River County and need a library card, you can apply for one online here.

You can also apply if you live in Clackamas, Multnomah or Washington Counties (OR) or if you live in Clark, Skamania or Klickitat Counties (WA) through our MIX  (Metropolitan Interlibrary Exchange) Program.

We will process online applications within 2 business days. Watch your email for your card number so you can start using our online services!

I've lost my card - what should I do?

Stop by one of our branches during business hours and we can replace your card for $1.00. If you want to use our online services and can’t make it into our branches, email or call us with your full name, address and phone number so we can look you up and find your card number  for you. 

Where do I return my books and other items?

You may drop off library materials in the outside book drops or inside when you visit the library. There are no overdue fines since we are a Fine Free Library.

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How do I pick up my items on hold?

Visit the branch where you requested to pick up your holds during our business hours. Find your items on the Holds shelf and check them out using the self-check computers or bring them to the counter.

If you have concerns about entering the building, you can use Curbside Services at all of our branches.

Help! I've forgotten my username and/or PIN!

By default, your username is your library account number on the back of your card, though you might have opted to change it at some point.

For your PIN, try the last 4 digits of your telephone number (the one you have on your library account).

If you are still having problems, email us or call us and we can help you reset them!

Donating items to the library

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Are you accepting donations?

We are accepting donations in the bin in the lobby during business hours. We’re currently accepting new and gently used books, audiobook CDs, and DVDs. For more information, click here.

Thanks to the generosity of patrons, we met our goal for Legos and craft supplies and are no longer accepting those.

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Hood River County Library District is committed to delivering excellent library services to all of the people of Hood River County, Oregon.