▼

Checking Out

Show All Answers

1. How many items can I check out?

Borrowers may have a total of 100 items checked out at a time, with the exception of new card holders who will have a limit of 3 (three) items checked out at a time, temporary residents who will have a limit of 1 (one) item checked out at a time and guest card holders who will have a limit of 3 (three) items checked out total for period of time the card is valid.
In order to maximize access to some small collections in the Library, each borrower is limited to five (5) DVDs, two (2) “Books To Go” and two (2) "DVDs To Go." Borrowers may have a total of three (3) Interlibrary Loan items on their account at a time.

2. How long is the check out period?

DVDs, magazines, children’s holiday books, and “Books to Go” have a seven-day checkout period. All other materials are checked out for three weeks.

3. Can I renew items?

Most items can be renewed once. Exceptions include Books-to-Go and Children’s 7-day holiday books. If, however, there is a waiting list for any item that item cannot be renewed.

4. How many times can I renew something?

Once; after the second check out by the same cardholder the item(s) must stay in the Library for a period of 48 hours before that same cardholder can check the item(s) out again.

5. Do I have to come into the Library to renew something?

No, you may use your telephone to reach the automated renewal system TeleCirc by calling 589-0087 or you can call Circulation at 589-4225, or you can also renew materials online from the Library’s web site at www.dubuque.lib.ia.us by following the link to “My Account.”

6. What is the TeleCirc number and how do I use it?

TeleCirc is an automated telephone system that can renew books, let you know when an item is waiting for you or tell you what items you have checked out. You can reach TeleCirc by calling 589-0887. If you would like to renew material, have the items in front of you when you call, as well as your library card, and follow the prompts on the telephone. Please contact Circulation Services for a more in-depth explanation at 589-4225.

7. Can I put an item on hold?

Yes, you can do this from the Library’s web site, www.dubuque.lib.ia.us, by following the link to the Library’s catalog, or you can telephone the Library at 589-4225.

8. How will I be notified when something is ready for me to pick up?

When you apply for your library card you will be asked if you prefer to be notified by mail, telephone, or email. You can change the method by which you are notified at any time by calling the Library at 589-4225.

9. Where do I pick up an item that is waiting for me?

Circulation desk or at the Self-Serve Hold shelf between the Check Out Desk and the Children's area.

10. Where do I go to ask for something to be borrowed from another library? (known as interlibrary loan)

Adult Information. This service is not be available to new library members for 90 days, temporary residents, those holding guest cards, or Open Access patrons.

11. Where do I pick up an item borrowed through interlibrary loan (ILL)?

Pick up ILL material at the Circulation desk.

12. Can interlibrary loans be renewed?

This depends on the loaning library. Telephone the Library at 589-4225 and ask to speak with the interlibrary loan librarian who can assist with this request.

13. Can I still check out if I have an overdue item or a fine?

You may continue to check material out until your account shows fines or fees of $10.00 or more. At that time you will not be allowed to borrow materials until the account is paid.

14. How much are the late fees?

Most material is fined at $.20 (twenty cents) per day. “Books to Go,” DVDs, and interlibrary loan materials are fined at $.50 (fifty cents) per day. Maximum fine accrual per item is $10.00.

15. Can I return items after the Library is closed?

Yes. Materials returns boxes are located at the main entrance, two drive-up boxes on Bluff Street side of the Library, at Eleanor Roosevelt Middle School located at 2001 Radford Road, in the parking lot of the Hy-Vee grocery store at Asbury Plaza, and these are available 24 hours each day. Material return boxes are also located in the Kennedy Mall at the Information Desk and available 7 days a week during regular mall hours

▼

E-Branch Library

Show All Answers

1. Who do I call if I can’t log on to the Library’s web site to see my account or use a database?

Contact the Library at 589-4225. Library Staff can determine if the cause is card related, or technology related.

2. What are downloadable materials?

Downloadable materials are digital versions of books that you can check out and listen to on your portable listening device such as an iPod, or read on an e-Reader such as a Kindle, Nook, or Sony. The Library also checks out Sony e-Readers.

▼

History of the Library

Show All Answers

1. When was the library built?

The library was built in 1902. This was made possible by a grant from Andrew Carnegie for the building and the gift of land from Frank Stout in memory of his father Henry Stout. The public library was named after these two benefactors. In the mid 1930’s the library board purchased the property (Masonic Temple) adjoining the library in anticipation of future growth. The library was expanded in 1981. In December 2008 the Library embarked on a total renovation of the facility.
The renovation was completed in September, 2010.

▼

How the Library Operates

Show All Answers

1. What is the Recommendations Desk?

Staff at the Recommendations Desk can offer suggestions on what you might read, listen or view next. If you have finished the latest John Grisham book and would like to read more books like his, the librarian at this desk can help you find something similar. Find out more about books series and more by stopping by this desk.

2. How many people work at the library?

18 full time employees, 36 part-time and 13 substitutes who work on an “on-call” basis.

3. What does Technical Services do?

Technical Services, managed by Deb Fliegel, is the center for new materials. All formats of new materials are ordered, received, processed, and cataloged in this department. Older materials are also repaired here. The library’s database, online catalog, web site and network are managed in this department as well as all other technology related issues.

4. What does Youth Services do?

Youth Services, managed by Danielle Day, is the center for all services to children ages 0 – 18 (and all others interested in children’s materials!) This department selects materials in fiction, non-fiction, reference, and audio-visual formats as well. Staff in this department provide reference service to children and parents. Programs take place throughout the year, often on a daily basis, for children. Staff in Youth Services conducts tours of the library for children and reach out in the community to provide library services to those children who cannot visit the library (in daycare or school) as time and resources allow. This department assists young library visitors in their use of library computers and Internet computers. Youth Services also ensures returned materials in their collection are shelved.

5. What does Administration do?

Administration, managed by the Library Director Susan Henricks, is responsible for implementing policies and the long-range plans established by the Library Board of Trustees. Administration is the library liaison to the Library Board of Trustees, Friends of the Library and Foundation. This department is responsible for overall management of the library. Financial work, such as purchase orders and payroll, are completed in Administration. Maintenance of records, facility and meeting room management also take place in this department as well as the marketing and public relations of the Library.

6. What does Adult Services do?

Adult Services, managed by Michelle Hellmer, is the focal point for services to Adults. This department selects materials in fiction, non-fiction, reference, and audio-visual formats for adults. Reference services are provided in person, by phone, fax, and e-mail through the Personal Librarian service. Programs take place throughout the year for adults, including regular book discussions and movie screenings. Staff conducts tours of the library for college students and other groups by request. This department is involved in outreach in the community by delivering library materials to people in facilities who cannot visit the library. This service is referred to as the library’s “Extension.” Adult Services also assists patrons in their use of Internet and other public access computers. This department facilitates the borrowing of material from another library (known as interlibrary loan)as well as requests for the Library to purchase a particular title.

7. What does Circulation Services do?

Circulation Services, supervised by Debi Stephenson, checks all materials out and in for library members (including reserves to be picked up) and ensures Adult and Young Adult materials are properly returned to shelves. This department maintains the borrowers’ database and issues library cards. Circulation Services also handles the collection of all library fines and fees and sells library merchandise.
Circulation Services notifies borrowers of items waiting to be picked up as well as items which are overdue. Circulation Services maintains the six materials returns boxes: two at the main entrance, two drive-up boxes on Locust Street side of the Library, two inside Kennedy Mall at the Information Desk, and two drive-up boxes at Eleanor Roosevelt Middle School located at 2001 Radford Road.

8. What does Maintenance do?

The Maintenance Department, supervised by John Young, is responsible for custodial services in the library. This department also performs preventative maintenance in/outside of the building and to equipment, and manages the library grounds. Maintenance also sets up rooms to accommodate the many meetings which take place in the Library. Maintenance works with Adult Services in outreach to facilities with housebound residents by delivering materials to various locations weekly.

9. Who are the Library Board of Trustees' members?

John Anderson-Bricker
Paula Connors
Jenny Harris
Diann Guns
David Hammer
Fred Miller
Michael Willis

10. How does someone become a library board member?

Currently, library board trustee members serve four year terms. When a position becomes vacant any Dubuque resident who is 18 years or older is eligible to serve. Nomination papers are available from the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall (13th Street, Dubuque). A person can be nominated, or nominate themselves. Library board members are then appointed by the Mayor with City Council approval.

▼

Internet Computers at the Library

Show All Answers

1. Can I use an Internet computer?

Yes, computers for Internet use are available to those age 13 and older in Adult Services. Teens (13-17) can also access the Internet from the Teen Zone. Computers are available for those under the ages of 13 in Youth Services.

2. Does the Library have wireless Internet access?

Yes, the Library has wireless access throughout the building.

3. Does the Library loan laptop computers?

The Library circulates laptop computers for use inside the building.

▼

Library Cards

Show All Answers

1. Am I eligible to get a library card?

Any person who resides in the City of Dubuque will be issued a library card with proper identification (driver’s license or birth certificate with social security card) and proof of address (voting card, utility bill, recently postmarked mail, or a check with address imprinted on it.) If you do not have proof of address a postcard will be mailed to you which can be brought into the Library. The Library does not accept post office boxes, or student/campus mail boxes when applying for a card.

2. What if I do not live in Dubuque? Can I get a library card?

The Carnegie-Stout Public Library has partnered with the Cascade Public Library, the Dubuque County Library, and the James Kennedy Public Library in Dyersville to form an Agency with the goal of providing library service to residents of Dubuque County who are not eligible for borrowing privileges from these libraries (typically other towns in the County without a library.) The residents of those communities contracting with the Agency will have full privileges at the Carnegie-Stout Public Library. Towns in Dubuque County currently contracting for library service include: Graf, Luxemburg, New Vienna, and Rickardsville, effective July 1, 2013.

3. I don’t live in a city in Dubuque County that is contracting for library service. Can I buy a library card?

No. You will need to talk with your city government to express your interest in library use and ask them to contract for library service.

4. I do not live in Dubuque County; can I still get a library card?

If you live in the state of Iowa and are a member of a library that participates in the statewide reciprocal borrowing program called Open Access you are eligible for a library card at Carnegie-Stout.

5. I live in Wisconsin (or Illinois); can I get a library card?

Out of state residents who are not eligible for borrowing privileges may purchase a non-resident card for a fee established by the Board of Trustees. See the fines/fees policy

6. I will be visiting Dubuque for a short time. Can I get a library card?

The Carnegie-Stout Public Library will issue guest cards for visitors to the community. The fee for this card is $10.00 and it will be valid for 30 days. Guest cards are limited to having a total of three items on loan at a time.

7. Where do I go to get a library card?

Circulation desk

8. Can my child get a card?

A library card will be issued for a child under the age of 16 when a parent or guardian has signed a “statement of responsibility” card and proof of residency has been established. Guardians may be asked to provide documentation of guardianship.

9. How much does a library card cost?

Library cards are free. Staff may ask for a $1.00 donation however this is not required to get a library card. Replacement cards cost $2.00.

10. How do I renew my library card?

Stop at the Circulation desk, or telephone the Library at 589-4225.

11. I lost my library card. What should I do?

Immediately report this to the Library so that service to the card can be stopped. The borrower is responsible for all activity on the card until it is reported as lost. Telephone the Library at 589-4225.

▼

Library Foundation

Show All Answers

1. What is the Foundation?

The Carnegie-Stout Library Foundation is a private, non-profit corporation, founded to promote reading and life-long learning. The Foundation solicits donations from individuals and corporations once a year during an annual fund drive. Distributions are given to the library in support of specific projects which are intended to be in addition to, rather than a supplement or replacement of, existing funds. For more information...

2. Who is serving on the Board of Directors?

Currently, the Board of Directors is comprised of thirteen community leaders: Donna Bauerly (President), Becky Barnhart (Secretary), Jim Collins, Lynne Devaney, Nick Felder (Treasurer), Diann Guns, Kevin Kelleher, Terry Kouba, Ryan Kruse, Bob Peacock, Gail Murphy, and Mary Schreiber. Contact the Board of Directors

3. What is the Carnegie-Stout Public Library Foundation?

The Carnegie-Stout Library Foundation is a private, non-profit corporation.

4. How long has the Foundation been in existence?

The Foundation was formulated with articles of incorporation and by-laws in 1987, but was not activated until May, 1996. It sought and received 501(c) (3) non-profit status from the Internal Revenue Service in December, 1996.

Its reactivation was the result of a recommendation by the Board of Trustees to solicit interested community leaders who wish to support the mission of the Dubuque public library and the Library Foundation.

5. What is its purpose?

The Carnegie-Stout Library Foundation was founded to promote reading and life-long learning in those communities it services.

6. How will the funds be distributed?

The distribution are restricted by the Foundation and are held by the Foundation. Distributions are intended to be in addition, rather than a supplement to or replacement of, existing revenue sources from fee-based library operations and city / public support

7. How will the Foundation accomplish its mission?

The Foundation seeks to encourage, solicit, and accept donations for the long-term benefit of the library.

▼

Lost or Damaged Items

Show All Answers

1. I lost (or damaged) an item. What should I do?

Contact the Library at 589-4225 to report this. Cost to repair or replace the item can be discussed.

2. The Library says I still have an item out, but I think I returned it. What should I do?

If you believe you have already returned an item that appears on the Carnegie-Stout Library system as still checked out, the transaction is given a "Claims Returned" status. The Library is searched at least once a week for the item. You will be encouraged to also search for the item. If the item is found at the Library, the record is cleared. If someone else brings the item to checkout, the record is cleared. If you find the item, the overdue fine is calculated from the due date to the return date. At no time will the overdue charge exceed the cost of an item. If, after sixty (60) days the item is not found, you will be sent a bill for lost materials.

▼

Main

Show All Answers

1. How do I contact the Carnegie-Stout Public Library?

You can contact us by phone, fax, email, or in person. Learn more about how to contact us

2. Where do I pay my late fees?

You can pay your late fees at the Library during regular hours, or by phone with a credit card.

3. What are the Library Hours?

Find out at Library Hours and Closings

4. What is the library’s mission statement?

The mission of the Carnegie-Stout Public Library is to improve the quality of life by providing resources that enhance and contribute to individual enjoyment, enlightenment, and knowledge.

5. I’ve got a question for a librarian, who should I ask?

Contact the Library at 589-4225 and ask for the Reference Desk. Email us a question...

6. Where is the Library located?

The Library’s address is 360 W. 11th Street in Dubuque, Iowa. It is at the intersection of 11th Street and Locust Street as well as the intersection of 11th Street and Bluff Street.

7. Where does the library’s budget come from?

The library is tax-supported and most of its money comes from the City of Dubuque. A smaller portion of the budget is from the State of Iowa. Other income is derived from the library’s fines, fees, sales of merchandise, grants, gifts and contract library service to other communities. The library receives no federal money.

8. How do I apply for a job at the Library?

Applications can be picked up at the Library or at City Hall in the Personnel Department (50 W. 13th Street, Dubuque, IA 52001.) Access an online application...

9. Can I donate books?

The Library accepts gifts of material to be added to the collection if it fits within the scope of the Materials Selection Policy. If the material cannot be added to the collection, it will be given to the Friends of the Library for their annual used book sale. The Library will not accept materials which are not outright gifts. The Library does reserve the right to dispose of gift materials if necessary. The Library cannot provide donors with an estimate of the gift’s value for tax purposes but can provide the donor with a letter which will list the items donated.

10. Can I post to the public bulletin board?

Due to limited space, the bulletin board is used for announcements of Library Board of Trustees meetings and City of Dubuque meetings. When space allows we invite postings that support not-for-profit community activities. Please submit your poster or notice to the Adult Services Manager for consideration.

11. Where can I find copies of your policies?

Library policies are available on the web site. Paper copies of one or more policies are available inside the Library for a cost of 10 cents per page. Please inquire at the Adult Information Desk. View Policies...

▼

Other Services

Show All Answers

1. Does the Library have a fax machine that I can use?

Yes, the fax number is 563-589-4306. The cost is $2.00 for the first page of long distance and $1.00 per page for local and toll-free numbers. Additional pages are $1.00 for long distance and local calls. This fee is the same to send or receive faxes. Please visit the Circulation Desk for assistance with faxes or call (563) 589-4225 and ask for the Circulation Desk for more information.

2. Does the Library have a copy machine?

Yes, the cost for black and white copies is $.10 (ten cents) per page and $.50 (fifty cents) for color copies (8.5 x 11)

3. Does the Library still have typewriters for public use?

Yes, the Library has an electric typewriters available on the second floor.

4. Does the Library have a Notary Public?

Yes, the Library provides this service at no charge during regular business hours (9:00 – 5:00 p.m.) Monday through Friday. Contact the Library at 589-4225 and ask for Administration.

5. Can I book a meeting room?

The Library does have meeting room space available. For more information call the Library at 589-4225 and ask for Administration. More about our rooms...

▼

Parking and Bus Service

Show All Answers

1. Where can I park?

At any metered parking surrounding the library, or in the public parking lot across the library on Bluff Street (which is also metered.)

2. Is there anywhere I can park for free?

Free parking around the library is limited. If you don’t mind walking 3 or 4 blocks, parking is free on the northern part of Bluff Street, (just north of 13th Street)

3. Why is there so little parking around the Library?

There is no room to expand existing parking. Recently, the City acquired a small parking lot on the corner of 12th and Bluff Street. Many staff members now park in this lot which frees up additional parking for library visitors at the lot on Bluff Street which is directly across the street from the Library.

4. Where is the nearest bus stop?

A complete bus schedule is available here

▼

Suggestions for Purchase

Show All Answers

1. Can I request something be purchased for the collection?

Yes, you may do so online from the catalog search page or in person at the Adult and Youth Services Information Desks or the Recommendations Desk.

2. How will I know if something I suggested was purchased?

If you request to reserve the item you will be notified when it is available.

▼

Volunteers

Show All Answers

1. Can I volunteer at the Library?

The Library welcomes volunteers and every effort is made to match a volunteer’s preferences and skills with available tasks. Call the Library at 589-4225 and ask for Administration who can provide you with additional information. Or, submit an
Online Volunteer application...

2. Who are the Friends of the Library?

The Friends of the Library is a non-profit (501-C-3) organization which is separate from the Library. The Friends of the Library raise funds to supplement the library’s budget in support of programs, materials, and new technology and equipment. The Friends have an annual book sale from which most of their money derives. They also raise money through on-going used book sales and through membership fees. Membership fees begin at $3.

3. Can I become a Friend of the Library?

Yes, membership is open to all. Inquire in Library Administration for more information.

4. Who heads the Friends group?

The president of the Friends of the Library is JoNita Grabow.