Borrowing Policy

Obtaining a Library Card

All persons who wish to borrow materials from the Library must obtain a library card. The library card must be presented each time materials are borrowed. A picture ID may be accepted in lieu of a library card one time before a replacement card will be required. Children under 18 may verify their birthdate to check out in lieu of a library card. A physical library card does not need to be presented if a patron’s photograph is attached to their circulation account. Photographs are optional when obtaining a library card.

The following persons may obtain a Portsmouth Public Library card by presenting valid identification:

• Ohio Residents
• Kentucky Residents from Greenup and Lewis Counties
• Students attending educational institutions in Scioto County

Valid identification for persons 18 years and older will be defined as a valid state or federal issued picture ID such as a valid driver’s license or valid state identification card and proof of current address. Responsible Party must present a valid picture ID and proof of current address to obtain a card for children under the age of 18 and the juvenile must be present. In some instances, official paperwork may be required to establish juvenile/adult relationships.

Borrowing Policies

A library card-holder may have a maximum of up to 25 items at any one time on their card. A total of ten (10) DVDs may be borrowed on an Adult card and a total of five (5) DVDs may be borrowed on a Juvenile card.

Materials Circulation Periods are:

• Regular Books including New and Audiobooks: 28 days
• New Author Reserve Books, Magazines, Holiday Books: 14 days
• DVDs and Quick Pick Books: 7 days
• Wifi Hotspots: 21 days, Adult card only, Limit 1 on adult card, no renewals, $100 lost fee and $1.00 per day overdue fines
• Leap Pads: 21 days, Adult card only, Limit 1 on adult card, no holds, no renewals, $100 lost fee and $1.00 per day overdue fines
• Interlibrary Loans (ILL): Limit of 2 on a card, DVDs – 7 days, All other materials – 14 days, no renewals.
• All Bookmobile materials have a circulation period of twenty-eight (28) days.

Library items may be renewed up to three (3) times. Items with holds and items on an Educator’s card cannot be renewed.

Damage Fees: Minimal and Repairable Damage – $3.00 per item / Non-repairable and total damage – replacement cost of item (patron may have item upon full payment unless disposed of due to health and safety issues)

Lost Fees: Replacement cost of item

Replacement Library Card Fees: Initial Library Card: Free / Replacement Card: $2.00

Any library card with:

• More than three (3) overdue items will be blocked until items are returned.
• A balance of more than $5.00 will be blocked until it is paid below $5.00.
• Items overdue more than 21 days will be charged replacement costs of the items until the materials are returned in good condition.

Effective 4/1/22