Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does the library open?
A: Library hours are as follows for each branch location*:
Branch Location
Hours of Operation
Artesia
Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Thursday: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Caledonia
Monday & Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday & Wednesday: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbus-Lowndes
Monday – Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Crawford
Monday: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Library hours are subject to change for holidays, inclement weather, etc.
Q: How do I get a library card and how much does it cost?
A: Getting your own library card is free, easy, and quick! Library card applications can be found online for both adults and children on our Library Card Application page. Once you fill out the form, just return it to your nearest Columbus-Lowndes Public Library System branch with a photo identification and proof of residence (an existing bill, passport, check, etc). You will receive your card on the spot with the proper paperwork. If you lose your library card, it is just $2.00 for a replacement card. If your card has been stolen, please report it to your local library as soon as possible.
Q: Can I search the library's catalog online?
A: Absolutely! Our online card catalog will provide you with an up-to-date look at what is available in our library branches.
Q: What is the username and password to sign in to my library account?
A: Your username is your library card's number (without spacing) and your password is your own personal PIN number. This number will either be the last four digits of your library card number or a personal PIN you created upon applying for your library card. If you need assistance with logging into your library account, call 662-329-5300.
Q: How long can I keep the items I have checked out?
A: Loan periods may vary depending on the type of item that is checked out. Below are a few of the common items that are checked out and their loan periods:
Item Checked Out
Checkout Period
28 days
Most books & audiobooks
2 renewals allowed, unless holds have been placed on the items
7 days
New & popular books
The checkout period is based on the number of holds for the item
DVDs
American Girl Dolls
Brain Boxes
ARC Therapy Tools
Leap Frogs
7 days
Renewals are not allowed on any of these items
7 days, 14 days, 21 days
Downloadable
eBooks & eAudiobooks
These items are checked out on your personal device and the checkout period is pre-determined by Overdrive, the library's eBook and eAudiobook platform.
Q: What if I am late returning my items?
A: All items that are able to be checked out have an overdue fine associated with them. These fines vary based on item type.
Item Checked Out
Associated Fine
Most adult books & audiobooks
10¢ per day
Maximum fine of $5.00
If not returned, the account will be charged the replacement cost of the item, plus processing fees.
Adult DVDs
25¢ per day
Maximum fine of $5.00
If not returned, the account will be charged the replacement cost of the item, plus processing fees.
American Girl Dolls
Brain Boxes
ARC Therapy Tools
Leap Frogs
$1.00 per day
No maximum fine
If not returned, these items continue to accrue fines until returned. If not returned, the account will be charged the entire replacement cost of the item plus processing fees. These specific items range in price from $50.00 to $200.00
These items cannot be returned in library book drops. A $2.00 fine will be added if returned in a library book drop.
Damaged items also result in a fee added to accounts. Below are the costs for some specific items damaged:
Damage to Item
Damaged or missing barcode
Associated Fine
$2.00 fine
Damaged audiobook cases
$10.00 fine
Damaged media cases (DVDs)
$2.00 fine
Damaged discs
$10.00 fine per disc
Damaged booklets or printed materials accompanying a CD or DVD
$1.00 fine
Q: How much does it cost to use the computers and WiFi?
A: The library provides computer and wireless internet access services for free. Our WiFi is always available for use and does not require a password.
Q: How do I use the library computers?
A: Columbus-Lowndes Public Library System computers are equipped with a self-service system. If a computer is available for public use, it will show 'AVAILABLE' on the screen. Patrons and community members may log in to a computer using a guest pass provided by circulation staff or by using a library card.
Q: What does it mean if the computer has 'RESERVED' on its screen?
A: This means that the computer has been reserved by another patron and only that patron is able to log in to use that specific computer for a specific amount of time.
Q: How much is it to print and where do I pick my prints up?
A: The cost for each print is 25¢ per black-and-white pages and 50¢ for color pages. Print outs can be picked up at the print release stations at each library. All money is paid at the vending machines. These machines accept $1 and $5 bills, quarters, dimes, and nickels. Please do not insert pennies or bills over $5. Please ask a librarian for assistance if you need more information or check out our Mobile Printing page.
Q: Can I print something from my personal device?
A: Absolutely! The Columbus-Lowdnes Public Library System is happy to provide mobile printing. Check out how this process works on our Mobile Printing page.
Q: How much is it to fax and receive pages?
A: It costs $1.50 to fax the first page and $1.00 for each additional page. To receive a fax, the cost is 25¢ per page. The fax number for the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library System is 662-329-5156.
Q: Does the library have programs for children?
A: Of course! The Columbus-Lowndes Public Library System has a variety of programs for children as part of our Children's Services department. Special and regular programming is offered. For more information, contact Children's & Teen Services Coordinator, Tori Hopper.
Q: How can I get a book that the library doesn't have?
A: While the library has a consortium membership as part of the Mississippi Library Partnership, we're also able to ask libraries across the state if they have a book you're looking for as well! You can fill out our Inter-Library Loan Request or ask us in-person as well.