Frequently Asked Questions
This section includes frequently asked questions. If you do not find the answer here, simply e-mail your question to Ask A Librarian 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You will receive an answer within four business hours.
How do I get to your libraries?
If you go to Library Information and click on Hours and Locations we have all the information you need to find us!
What services do the Ramsey County Libraries offer?
Personal assistance - Library staff are available to assist you in person or by phone, to handle inquiries and to help locate the books and materials you are seeking. Librarians have access to numerous databases to help you find information. If an item you want isn't owned by the Ramsey County Public Library, we'll contact other library systems to obtain the item for you.
Ask a Librarian - Librarians will provide answers to your questions via email within four business hours! To find out more go to Ask a Librarian.
Programs for adults, teens and children
Copy machines
TelePhone or Email request notification
Meeting rooms for public use
Internet Access - Each library location has Internet access available. It is available on a first come first serve basis and you are allotted 60 minutes per day. You will need your barcode and PIN number to access the Internet.
Word processing - Word processing computers using Microsoft Word are available at every location except North St. Paul.P
Wireless - For more information, please click here.
Who can apply for a library card?
Any resident of the seven county metropolitan area with a current picture identification may register for a library card. A parent's or guardian's signature with current picture identification is required for those under 16 years of age. You are responsible for materials checked out on your library card. Report a lost card or change of address immediately.
How do I apply for a library card?
Simply visit any library in the seven county area. Ask someone at the Circulation Desk to issue you a library card. You will need to provide picture identification and your current address.
In accordance with the Minnesota Statutes 13.02 and 13.40, library patron records are private and information contained in the record cannot be given out to anyone other than the library card holder.
What materials can I check out at the Library?
The Ramsey County Library provides free access to nearly 1 million items including books, videos, DVDs, CDs, magazines, maps, newspapers, business directories, large print books and audio books. The Library also offers countless resources available through the Internet including access to more than 25 online databases that provide full text articles, newspaper archives and more to help aid you in research projects, homework, family trees, car repair and more. To find out more about our databases go to Online Resources.
How do I search for a book and what is iPac?
iPac is our web-based search tool that allows you to search the libraries' collections (books, magazines, movies, databases), place requests, check your library account or access internet resources. To help you find what you want we have added features like cover art, book reviews and summaries that display on many of our title pages. Click on Library Catalog on our home page to begin using iPac.
What's my PIN number and how do I get one?
Your Personal Identification Number (PIN) is used along with your barcode number to give you access to computers, online databases and your account information found in iPac. In an effort to preserve your right to privacy and to ensure access to library services, all patrons are required to choose a four digit PIN when they register for a new card. If you already have a card but don't remember your PIN we will require a PICTURE IDENTIFICATION in order to assign or convey all PIN numbers.
Can I extend the due date on my items?
Most materials borrowed from a Ramsey County Library may be renewed (extended) a maximum of two times, in person or by telephone if no one else has requested the material. Exceptions to this include persons with more than 10 items overdue or more than $5.00 in charges and fees. When these limits are exceeded, users will have their borrowing privileges suspended, resulting in the prevention of renewing materials.
Can I renew my own materials without having to come into the library?
There are two ways to renew materials remotely....
1. Go to our web site and click on My Account. You will be asked for a barcode and PIN to proceed so make sure to stop by your library if you don't already have one. Within My Account you can go to the Checked Out section and you can renew your materials.
2. Call our telephone renewal system (TeleCirc) at 651-766-4141. You will be asked for your barcode and PIN number and then our computerized attendant will prompt you through the renewal process.
Where can I use my Ramsey County Library card?
A Ramsey County library card may be used at most public libraries in Minnesota. When using your card in another library system, you must abide by its rules.
Where can I return my library materials?
The Ramsey County Public Library is a member of the Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA). This means you may return most items borrowed from any public library in the MELSA region to any other public library in the MELSA region.
What is the typical due date for library materials?
Most materials are due three weeks from the day you check them out. Some exceptions apply such as video cassettes. At checkout you should receive a receipt with the due date of you materials. If you lose your receipt you can call our TeleCirc system or go to our web site to find out your due dates.
What if the item I am looking for is already checked out?
If the item you want is checked out, you may request to have it set aside for you when it is returned. You may do this by selecting the title from the catalog and clicking on the "request" link. You will need to have your library card barcode to place the request.
How do I return items when the library is closed?
When a library is closed, books, magazines and videos may be put in the book or video returns at any Ramsey County Public Library. Please Note: "Rental Material" returned in book or video returns will continue to accrue daily charges, including closed days and holidays.
Can I change my email address or PIN number through your web site?
Yes you can! If you go to My Account and call up the profile screen you will be presented with the options to change either of these.
What are the overdue fines for materials returned after the due date?
All DVD's and video cassettes $1.00 per day per item.
Adult items $0.30 per day per item.
Juvenile (J) and Young People (YP) items $0.10 per day per item.
The maximum overdue charge is $10.00 per item, excluding video cassettes.
Persons with more than 10 items overdue or more than $10.00 in charges and fees will have their borrowing privileges suspended.
How do I enter my artwork in the Library Art Exhibit?Please click here for Art Exhibit Policy.
How can I get a job with the Library?
The library is not currently filling positions due to the budget situation limitations. For information on employment opportunities with Ramsey County, please click on the Jobs link below. You will be connected with the Ramsey County Human Resources web site, which has information on current job postings.
Ramsey County Human Resources
