Special Needs

Volunteering

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t I cancel a patron placed ‘request’ from my home computer?
The website currently allows patrons to place a hold but not to cancel a request. To cancel a request you have placed, you will need to call or come into the library.

Can materials checked out at other libraries be returned at Westchester?
Most of the time, materials from other libraries can be returned to the Westchester Public Library and we will route them on to the owning library, provided they are within our library consortium—Metropolitan Library System.

Can my card be used at other libraries?
Yes, your Westchester Public Library card may be used at any of the Metropolitan Library System’s libraries.

How do I change my PIN number if I have forgotten what it was?
Come into the library to have your old PIN number deleted by library staff. After the old PIN number has been deleted, you will be able to create a new one by accessing our catalog either in the library or from your computer at home.

How many videos/DVDs can I check out?
6 new feature videocassettes or DVDs, per patron, with unlimited older titles are the limits for daily checkouts. For informational/non-fiction videos, 5 items per subject is the limit. Just remember they circulate for a 1-week period (3 days for new titles) and the fine is $1 per day, per title.

Can I save something from the Library’s computer to a CD?
You can save your work onto your 3.5 floppy disk or you can purchase a formatted disk at the front desk for $1or you can save onto your flashdrive. Our computers are currently not configured to save information onto any other format.

Do you circulate computer programs? Can I copy your programs onto my laptop?
No, we do not circulate computer programs nor can you copy our programs. Copyright law and licensing restrictions make it illegal for you to copy our computer programs onto your computer equipment.

Can I plug my laptop into your network to access the Internet?
No. Patrons are not allowed to tamper with any plugs on the Library’s computers, and they are not allowed to attach their own peripherals or devices to the Library’s computers. See our computer policy.

Do you have wireless Internet access?
Yes, our WiFi access is free and is 802.11b and 802.11g compatible. Printing is not available for laptops or WiFi equipment. Click here for more information about WiFi access at the Library.

Do you have a typewriter I can use?
Yes, we have an electric typewriter in one of the study rooms upstairs in the Adult Department. It is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please bring your own paper and envelopes.

Do you have copiers?
Yes.

• Laser printers are connected to the Internet stations for printing from the computer workstations.
  
• Color printers are connected to the Internet stations for printing from the computer workstations.
  
• Photocopy machines are located on the main floor by the Circulation Desk and in the Adult Department (near the elevator). Both machines copy to 8x11 and 8x14 size paper, using black ink. Copies cost 10 cents per page. Both machines accept dollar bills.
  
• Microform reader/printer, located in the Youth Department, can print 8x11 copies of images from microfilm or microfiche. Machine accepts dimes only. (Change is available at the Circulation Desk.)

Can I use my cell phone in the Library?
No, we ask that you place or receive cell phone calls in the front lobby or outside (weather permitting). When you are in the Library, please make sure that the ring mode has been switched to the silent mode so that you don’t annoy your fellow patrons.

Can someone proctor an exam I need to take?
Yes, but you must be a Westchester resident and you need to talk to a reference librarian in advance to discuss any conditions or arrangements that the school requires and to schedule the proctored exam. Proctoring is subject to the staffing needs of the Library.

I have searched the Library’s online catalog and the Library does not own the materials I am looking for. How can I get these materials?
When an item is not available in the online catalog, our reference staff can attempt to locate the item in another library in the state or elsewhere. We can borrow books, videos, CDs and even microfilm requested by patrons from other libraries in the state at no charge. Most items arrive within 7-10 working days.

If the item is only available out-of-state, the request is forwarded to the Metropolitan Library System, pending the patron’s approval of a $3 service fee.

For more information, see interlibrary loan Please plan ahead. Call, email, or visit the Library and we will be happy to help you find what you need.

Can I access my college library resources here?
Yes, most colleges and universities provide remote access to their databases. (you will need to know how to log into their site). Since our databases are designed for public library patrons, we recommend that you use the databases offered at your college or university for your coursework. Databases available at your college or university library are designed for an academic community, and will give you access to professional literature and scholarly journals (which we don’t have). Besides, your tuition pays for this access.

Why can’t I just do my college research here? Your library is more convenient.
Our library is convenient for study and Internet-based research, but our collection is no substitute for the in-depth research that you can do using academic books and journals housed in a college or university library. Our reference staff will be happy to suggest databases and strategies for researching your topic, but reference staff of an academic library will have more expertise in researching academic topics. Again, your tuition pays for these services and it is in your interest to use them.

Do you have information on property transfers in Westchester?
Yes, we have some old newspaper clippings with listings of older property transfers, however, recent information on property transfers now can be found in the Public Records Database.

Do you have a copy of the village code?
Yes. We have a copy of the Westchester Municipal Code for reference use in the Library. It is kept at the Circulation Desk. We also have a copy of the Illinois Compiled Statutes in the reference collection of the Adult Department.

Do you have maps of flood plains or underground utility lines?
No, you will need to contact the Village for maps of flood plains and other information. You should also contact the utility companies serving your neighborhood for information about underground utility lines.