Using the Library

Come on in, the library is open to everyone!

You do not need a library card to use the library.
Here are some of the things you can do without a card:

  • Have a question? Ask us! Our staff is always available to help with research questions, local history questions, and more.

  • Read any of the books, newspapers, or magazines in our collection while you’re visiting.

  • Check out some of the museum pieces throughout the library. Artwork, taxidermy, and our rock and mineral collection are some of the items always on display throughout the main floor.

  • Connect to our WiFi network with your own device or use one of our desktop computers to browse the internet, check your email, print a document and make photocopies, or search the library’s online databases.

  • Get comfortable at a table or chair in a quiet corner of the library.

  • Attend one (or a few!) of our many free programs. Programs are always open to the public.

What kinds of things can you do with a library card?
Here are some ideas:

  • Browse and borrow many of our books, audiobooks on CD, DVDs, music CDs, museum passes, and more, available free of charge.

  • Borrow books from our digital collection through OverDrive or Libby on your computer, tablet or smartphone.

  • Visit and borrow items from any of the 150+ CWMARS libraries in central and western Massachusetts.

  • Use the library’s online catalog to place holds on any item from our library or other participating CWMARS libraries and have them delivered to Barre for pickup. The CWMARS collection consists of 8.1 million items waiting to be borrowed.

  • Can’t find what you’re looking for in CWMARS? With a library card, you can borrow items from anywhere in the state, or even the country!

 

Get a Library Card - FAQs

 

How do I get a library card at the Woods Memorial Library?

 

Patrons can visit the library to fill out our library card application. To be issued a card the borrower must provide at least one piece of identification bearing the borrower's name and current address.

If you do not have a document with proof of address, you may ask a librarian to send a postcard to you. Once you receive the postcard in the mail, you may then use the postcard as your proof of address and we will create a library card for you.

If you already have a library card from another library within the CWMARS network, that card will work in Barre.

Do I need my card every time I come to the library?

 

Yes. Patrons must have their card to complete any transaction. If a patron contacts the library by phone or email for questions or concerns regarding their account, they must include their library card number.

Can I have someone else pick up my holds for me?

 

Yes. To pick up items for another patron, the library card for whom the materials have been reserved must be presented at the time of checkout.

What happens if I forget my library card?

 

In an effort to protect patron privacy, we must have your library card at the time of checkout. If your library card is lost and you need a replacement, you may bring a photo ID to the circulation desk to be issued a new card. It is important to always use your library card as this reduces error – there can be many people with the same name but your library card is unique!

What happens if I forget my account PIN number?

 

A PIN number gives you access to your own library card account. If you don’t remember your PIN number you can visit or call the library to have your password reset. You may also reset your PIN using the “forgot your password?” button on the account login page.

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

 

The maximum number of items a patron may have checked out on their record at one time is 50. The maximum number of holds a patron may have on their record at one time is 20. CWMARS has established the following limits:

Music CDs, DVDs, and Audiobooks - Limit 20 items.
Museum Passes, Library Telescope, and Kits - Limit 1 item.

How long can I keep my borrowed items?

 

All DVDs checked out to patrons circulate for 7 days with 1 renewal for 7 days. CDs, books, audiobooks, and periodicals checked out to patrons circulate for 21 days with 1 renewal for 21 days. All museum passes will circulate for 3 days and will not be renewed. The telescope will circulate for 14 days and will not be renewed.

How can I renew my items?

 

Items that are eligible to be renewed will automatically renew on the due date. If you have an email address on file, you will be notified of the renewals via email. Patrons can also log into their account to view the status of all checked out items. You may also call the library to renew items.

Am I charged a fine if I return something late?

 

The Woods Memorial Library does not have late fees on most items, with the exception of museum passes, kits, the telescope, and library technology. If an item received through Interlibrary Loan is returned late, the patron will be responsible for paying any late fees as determined by the owning library.

 

For more information, please consult our borrowing policy or contact a librarian.