Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a library card?
Click here to register for a library card online. You can also call us at (423) 434-4450 or visit the Circulation Desk to register for your library card. Click here for more information on getting a library card, including who is eligible for a library card and what you need to bring with you to finalize your registration.
I received a message that my library card is expired. How do I renew it?
If you receive a message that your library account is expired, don’t worry! It’s very quick and easy to renew your account. Call (423) 434-4450 or visit the Circulation Desk and we’ll renew your card. Please call during Library hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sunday, 12-6 p.m.
How do I log in to my account?
Click here to log in to your account. You’ll need your library card number and PIN. Your PIN is your last name—up to the first eight characters—in all lowercase letters. (If you have a hyphen in your last name, the hyphen counts as one character.)
Once you’ve logged in to your account using the default PIN, you can change your PIN in the “Account Summary” tab. You can also create an “EZ Login” username and password if you want.
My account PIN was reset. What is it?
In March 2022 your PIN was automatically reset to your last name—up to the first eight characters—in all lowercase letters. (If you have a hyphen in your last name, the hyphen counts as one character.)
Once you log in using the default PIN, you can change your PIN in the “Account Summary” tab. You can also create an “EZ Login” username and password if you want.
I used to get text notifications about my account but now I don't. How do I get those again?
In March 2022 all notification preferences were automatically reset to email. You can sign up for text notifications again—just stop by the Circulation Desk or call (423) 434-4450.
My family members' accounts used to be linked but now they aren't. How do I relink them?
In March 2022 all linked accounts were automatically separated. To relink your family members’ accounts, stop by the Circulation Desk or call (423) 434-4450.
I don't see digital books and media in the catalog. Where can I find those?
Digital books and movies aren’t incorporated into the catalog, but they are still available!
You can browse and borrow from our large collection of ebooks and eaudiobooks at Tennessee R.E.A.D.S. or through the Libby app.
You can also access these items while you’re in the catalog by clicking the “TN R.E.A.D.S.” button at the top of the catalog page. (See below.)
We also offer hoopla digital, a streaming service with thousands of ebooks, eaudiobooks, comic books, magazines, movies, TV shows, and music.
How do I renew items?
We automatically renew eligible items. Click here for information on which items are eligible for automatic renewal and how to manually renew items.
How do I put items on hold?
Search for an item in the catalog, then click “Place Hold”. (See the example below.) You’ll receive an email or text notification when your hold is ready. You can pick it up at the Circulation Desk or curbside pickup.
How many items can I check out?
Most new library users are limited to two items for their first checkout. After that, users may check out up to 40 items, with some exceptions depending on the type of item.
Curbside pickup orders are limited to 15 items. Please call (423) 434-4450 with questions.
What if I have late fees and fines?
We are waiving most overdue fines right now. However, bills for items that are lost or damaged will not be waived. Click here and scroll down to the bottom of the page for more information on fees for lost or damaged items.
Do you have storytimes and other events?
Storytimes for toddlers and preschoolers meet in the Natural Adventure Area across the street from the Library.
We have a variety of events for all ages, both in-person and online. Please visit our calendar to find upcoming events.
How do I request that you add an item to your collection?
Click here to request that we add an item to our collection. You can also call one of our service desks: (423) 434-4458 for youth items, (423) 434-4349 for teen items, or (423) 434-4454 for adult items.
Can I print, copy, scan, and fax documents at the Library?
Yes, we offer printing, copying, scanning, and faxing services in the Computer Center on the second floor. Click here for details on how to use them.
Do you have public computers and access to the internet?
Yes, we have public computers. Click here for details.
Free WiFi is available throughout the building. Choose “JCPL WiFi” to connect. You don’t need a password to connect to the public network.
Where do I return items?
We have an outside book and media drop box that is accessible 24/7 in our parking lot on Fairview Avenue. Our inside returns drop is past the Circulation Desk to your left. We do not have remote book drop locations.
Do you have study rooms or quiet areas to work?
Four quiet study rooms are available on the second floor. The Campbell Study Room is available by reservation, and the other three study rooms are available on a first come, first served basis.
The Tennessee Room is a quiet area that houses our genealogical and local history collection. It is open for genealogical research sessions of up to two hours.
For more information or to reserve the Campbell Study Room, please call the Information Desk at (423) 434-4454.
How do I reserve the meeting room?
Where are the newspapers?
Newspapers are located at the Information Desk on the second floor. You can ask a staff member at the desk for assistance.
Do you have a notary?
Yes, we offer notary services! Call (423) 434-4352 to set up an appointment, and please allow 24 hours for a response.
Please note that our notary is not an attorney licensed to practice law in the state of Tennessee, and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.
Do you accept donations?
We accept donations of books and media items. Click here for details about the donation process and what we accept.
Do you have paper tax forms and instructions?
Yes, we have paper tax forms and instruction booklets available at our service desks and at curbside pickup. You can also find instructions at irs.gov/forms-instructions.
Do you offer exam proctoring services?
Yes, we proctor professional and academic exams. Contact the Information Desk at (423) 434-4454 to schedule an exam time.
Click here for more information about our proctoring services.
Can I take the TWRA Boating Safety exam at the Library?
We proctor the TWRA Boating Safety exam by walk-in or appointment during our regular operating hours. Come to the Library’s Information Desk on the second floor to take the test.
Please note that you must have purchased a Type 600 boating safety permit prior to taking the exam, and you must have this permit with you when you arrive to take the exam.
Please allow approximately one hour to complete the exam. It is administered on a computer, so you must have basic computer skills.
Click here for an online study guide or pick up a hard copy at the Information Desk.
Call the Information Desk at (423) 434-4454 for more information.
