Frequently Asked Questions

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Library Card Questions

A.  How do I get a library card?

A library card application must be completed and brought to any Stark County District Library location, including Bookmobiles and Kidmobiles, together with acceptable identification.

B.  What is acceptable identification?

• Driver's license
• State ID
• Birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Student I.D.
• Passport

Identification must include written verification of your current address. Acceptable forms for address verification are: Printed personal check, utility bill, or anything addressed to you and delivered to your home address by mail.

C.  Are there any age restrictions?

• Patrons 18 and over: Acceptable I.D.
• Patrons between the ages of 16 - 17: Application must include parent or guardian's name. Proof of identification is preferred but not required
• Patrons 15 and under: Parent or guardian must sign Parental Consent Form (Parent does not need to be present at time when card is issued; no I.D. is required.)

D.  Does the library card require renewal?

Library cards must be renewed every three years. In addition, addresses are checked.

E.  Where do I get a library card application?

• In paper form at any Stark County District Library location
• Print an online Library Card Application Form fill it out, and bring it to any Stark County District Library location.

• School teachers
• Teacher aides
• Home educators
• School librarians
• Library Resource Center Technicians
• Teachers in nursery schools
• Teachers in child care centers or preschools
• Visit Educators Resources for more information on the loan policies.

G.  What should I do if I lose my library card?

Call or stop into the library to report the card as lost.  For new cards, please come to the library with a valid I.D.  The replacement fee is $1.00.

H.  What should I do if my personal information changes?

Stop by the library circulation desk to update your information.  Changes made over the phone (mailing address, phone number, etc.) will be finalized the next time you show I.D. at any SCDL location.

I.  How long can I borrow something?

Materials Loan Periods and Limits:

J.  How much are fines and what forms of payment are accepted?

SCDL does not charge to check out library materials.  Due date receipts are given at every checkout, but if items are not returned by the due date, fines can accrue. The fines for all materials, unless specifically noted are:

• Videos DVD CD-ROM and Interlibrary Loan material: $0.50/Day
• All other materials: $0.10/Day
• Patrons may not check out or renew items if fines exceed $5.00.
• Patrons with more than $25 in fines may be sent to the library's collections agency. 
• All SCDL locations accept cash, personal checks, or Visa/MasterCard. Restrictions may apply.

K.  Do I have to return materials to the same location?

No, you may return library materials to any Stark County Library Location, including book-drops and bookmobiles.

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Catalog Questions

A. How do I use the library's catalog?

When you first access the catalog through www.StarkLibrary.org, your first Search option will be Encore, our catalog's search and discovery platform.The default search using Encore will be Keyword for a quick and simple item search. Once inside Encore, you will discover a variety of searching options.

After your initial Search, the catalog will offer you the opportunity to Refine your Search by the following categories.

• Search Found In: Limit by Title, Subject, or Author.
• Format: Limit by Book, DVD, Audio Book, Large Print, etc.
• Collection: Look for an item at a specific library location.
• Language: Limit by language, e.g. English or Spanish.

• Publish Date: Limit by publication date.

The list of search results is also sorted by Relevance to the keyword. This field contains the item record, as well as basic information such as Title, Author, Publication Information, Jacket Cover, and Item Format. You can request an item or refine your search from this portion of the screen; the results list can also be resorted by clicking on Title or Date.

The Encore page has a Tag Cloud to help refine your search without starting a new search. Plus, this page will suggest popular titles you may want to consider checking out.

If you still don't find what you are looking for, try the Advanced Search link to access the Classic Catalog. This portion of the catalog will allow you to search by Keyword, Title, Author, Subject, for a Series, or limit your search for specific items, such as DVDs.

B. What are some of the convenient features of the Online Catalog?

• Preferred Searches
  The Preferred Searches feature allows you to save a search of your favorite author or subject, so that you may place reserves on new materials more quickly. Once you have set up your Preferred Search, you may choose to be alerted by email of new materials added to the library collection which match your Preferred Search. When an item is cataloged that matches this search an email notification will be sent to the email address the library has on file. This guide will help you set up your Preferred Searches.
• My Lists
  The My Lists feature allows you to permanently save titles to your online patron record for future use, much like the Wish List function on commercial/shopping websites. This function allows you to keep multiple lists in order to track items you may want in the future. You must be logged in to your account to use this feature.
• Book Cart
  The Book Cart is similar to the shopping cart on a commercial/shopping website. You can place items in the Book Cart and request one or more of the items, all items, or save them to My Lists for future use.

C.  How do I place a hold or reserve an item?

When you find an item, you can request that it be held (reserved) for you. You will be asked for your library card number and PIN number. (NOTE: The first time you access the catalog, you will need to change your PIN number.) You may choose the library location where you wish to pick the item up, plus a space for comments is provided if you have specific instructions, such as requesting that the item be picked up at a specific bookmobile stop. The library limits the number of holds to 20 items per customer. Remember, it will be necessary to type in your Full Barcode, beginning with the 213330 numbers.

D. How do I keep my Holds from expiring if I won't be able to pick them up?

You can Freeze your Holds once you have logged into the My Account section of the Online Catalog. Log into your account and view the list of holds; there is a checkbox on the right hand of each title if there are multiple holds on the title. Simply check (or uncheck) this box to make a hold inactive (or make it active once again) and then click on the Update List box.

E. How will I be notified when items I place on Hold are ready for pickup?

The library offers two choices for sending out Pick-up and Overdue Notices: 1) Email or 2) Phone. You may choose which method you prefer. If you have not chosen your Notice Preference, the system will use the default, which is 1) Email 2) Phone. This means the system will first try to Email the notice, then the automated system will call.

If you would like to choose how you will be notified, you can do so in the online catalog by logging into your account, and clicking on the button on the right hand portion of the page that reads Modify Personal Information. From there, you can change your Email address in addition to selecting your Notification Preference. Of course, you can always call or stop by your local library and ask a staff person for assistance in setting your preferences. You may also update your account by filling out this form. We will update your account with the information.

The automated phone system makes calls Monday through Saturday, from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm and it will make 3 attempts to call. If a call does not "complete" after 3 tries, then it will move on to try to notify the patron via Email (if there is an Email in the patron record). The system will leave a message on an answering machine. The calls do not identify patron names nor item titles.

If you absolutely do not want to be called, contact the library and your library patron record can be set so that you do not receive calls.

The system will consolidate all of your items ready for pickup or overdue items into one call. Unfortunately, it cannot consolidate calls to the same telephone number for different library card numbers.

F.  How can I renew an item?

You may renew by telephoning any library location, by accessing the My Account link from our homepage, or in person at any SCDL location. Some library materials may not be renewable if reserved by another patron. The maximum number of times for renewal is two.

G. How can I get items from other libraries?

Stark County District Library offers SearchOhio which allows you to access the catalogs of 17 Ohio public libraries using your Stark County District Library Card. The library also offers online Interlibrary Loan service. If you desire a book that is NOT LISTED in our online catalog, you may request it through SearchOhio or Interlibrary Loan. Use this Interlibrary Loan Form.

H. What is SearchOhio?

SearchOhio allows you to access the collections of 17 Ohio public libraries simply and easily using your Stark County District Library card. This easy-to-use tool is now available with a click of a mouse.  This guide will answer your questions about SearchOhio.

I.  Are books available for downloading?

Yes. Access our Downloadable Media page for instructions and access to downloadable books, audio books, movies, music, and television shows.

J.  What is Downloadable Media?

The Stark County District Library offers you books, music, and movies that can be downloaded anywhere, anytime - all you need is your library card number and PIN, and software downloads for My LibraryDV or the Overdrive Media Console to begin. 

All programming is downloaded to a computer or laptop. Movies can be shown on your computer or on a television using AV inputs/outputs. Some eBooks, audio books, and music may be transferred to portable devices or burned onto CDs.

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Computer and Internet Use

A.  Is the Internet available?

All Stark County District Library locations provide free filtered and unfiltered Internet access to all people. In addition, Microsoft Office is available for:

• Word Processing
• Spreadsheets
• Presentations
• Databases

B.  Does Stark County District Library have wireless Internet access?

Yes.  Wireless Internet access is available at all Stark County District Library locations. Wifi FAQ's (pdf file)

• What do I need to access the Internet at the library?

You will need a wireless network interface card that is compatible with the 802.11b or an 802.11g standard. Most devices are equipped with a compatible wireless card. Please observe Stark County District Library's Internet and Computer Use Policy while using the library's wireless network.

• How do I set up my computer to use the library's wireless Internet access?

Your computer may automatically detect the wireless network when you are in the library. If your computer detects more than one wireless network, choose "Public Library" to access the library's network. If your computer doesn't automatically detect the network, use the software provided with your wireless network interface card to connect to the public library wireless network.

• How will I know if my computer is connected to the network?

Open your web browser and try to connect to a website. If you are not connected, check to see if your wireless settings are set properly. If you still cannot connect, check with a librarian to find out if the library's wireless network is currently having a problem.

• Will library staff help me set up my computer to access the wireless network?

The staff can provide basic information for accessing the network, but the user is responsible for configuration and troubleshooting of their personal equipment.

• Is the library's wireless Internet access secure?

No. Most wireless networks do not offer secure access. Please keep this in mind when accessing or providing business or personal information over the library's wireless network.

• Is the wireless Internet access filtered?

No. If you wish to filter your device, you must install personal filtering software.

• Do I need a library card to use the library's wireless Internet access?

No. It is free to anyone in the library.

• Can I print from my device while using the library's wireless Internet access?

No. You may save your work to a disk or other storage device or e-mail it to yourself, then log on to one of the library's computers to print your work.

C.  Can I print, fax, or photocopy? Do you have storage devices? How much do they cost?

• FAXES (sending only)
  Local and toll free: $0.50 per page
  Long Distance and International: $1.00 per page
• COPIES or PRINTING
  Photocopier: $0.15 per page, $.30 per double-sided page
  B&W Printer: $0.15 per page
  Color Printer: $0.50 per page
• STORAGE MEDIA
  Floppy Disks: $1.00 per disk 
  USB Drives: $5.00 each 

D.   What are the sign-up procedures at the Main Library Technology Center? 

• Only same-day reservations are accepted and can be made in-person or by phone 330.458.2740.
• Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead for reservations is recommended.
• Computer usage is limited to two 1.5 hour sessions (or 3 hours total) with at least a 0.5 hour break between sessions.

E.  Are computer classes offered?

Hands-on computer classes are free and open to adults, unless otherwise noted. Seating is limited; advance registration is required. Please call Dee Rondinella at 330.458.3150 to register, register by email: trainer@starklibrary.org, or by filling out the online form for each class in the Calendar of Events.

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Reference Research: Databases, Newspapers, and Magazines

A.  What research tools are available?

The Reference Services Staff can help you find answers for all kinds of questions.  Call at 330.458.2754 or email using the Ask a Reference Librarian form.  Independent research is possible using our collection of Databases or by browsing our collection of Web Links. 

B.  Does the library have legal materials?

Yes.  Some sources are:

• Black's Law Dictionary
• Codified Ordinances of the City of Canton, Ohio
• Code of Federal Regulations
• Ohio Revised Code
• United States Code Service

If we are unable to help, we may refer you to the Stark County Law Library. Please note that librarians are not permitted to recommend forms, explain legal terms, or offer any kind of legal advice.

C.  Does the library have medical references or information about prescription medicines?

Yes.  Some sources are:

• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders  
• Physician's Desk Reference
• Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary

Additionally, there are websites listed on the Web Links page and online databases.  Please note that librarians are not permitted to offer any medical advice or diagnoses.

D.  Does the library have materials on businesses?

Yes.  Some sources are:

• Brands and Their Companies
• Dun and Bradstreet Million Dollar Directory
• LexisNexis Corporate Affiliations
• Morningstar Investment Research Center
• Valueline Investment Survey
• Wall Street Journal

E.  Does the library have phone books for areas other than Canton?  Is there any way to find out to whom a specific phone number belongs, or who lives at a particular address?

Yes, the library has some phone books from across the country. Also, the library has the Canton City Directory and the Haines Criss Cross Directory.  ReferenceUSA is a popular online source for business and residential information from across the country.

F.  Where can I find the history of Stark County?

The library has many books on the history of Stark County, including Edward Thornton Heald's six-volume The Stark County Story.  Another good source for information is the Stark County Engineer's Stark County History web page.

G. Where can I find the history of Canton, Ohio?

There are several books about Canton's history at the library, such as The Stark County Bicentennial Story, v.2. The City of Canton, Ohio: History website is another good source.

H.  Does the library have old copies of the Canton Repository?

Yes.  The library has past issues of the Repository, 1815 to the present, with current issues in paper.

I.  What is the current and past population of Canton and Stark County?

(Source: Decennial Census Totals and The Stark County Story by Edward Thornton Heald Vol. III)

For more local statistical information try the Ohio Department of Development web page or the US Census Bureau online.

J.  What are the highest and lowest points in Stark County?  How high above sea level is Canton?

(Source: Stark County Engineer)

• Highest point - 1,360 feet above mean sea level, 1 mile northeast of Paris.
• Lowest point - 880 feet above mean sea level, Tuscarawas River, Bethlehem Township.
• The city of Canton, Ohio is 1,060 feet above sea level.

N.  What is the latitude and longitude of Canton, Ohio?

(Source: Topozone.com)

• Latitude is 40.799°N
• Longitude is 81.379°W

Genealogy

A.  Where is the library located, and how do I get there?

The Stark County District Library' Main Library is located at 715 Market Ave. North, in Canton, Ohio. From I-77 take 13th St. exit. (Extension turns into 12th St.) East to Market St. turn right and go south to 9th St. N.W. The driveway into the library's parking lot is approximately 100 feet past the light at 9th St. on the right.

B.  How do I get to the Genealogy Division?

Come in the main doors at the north end of the library of the Main Library.  (The library has handicapped access.)  Take the elevator, located at the far end of the central atrium area, to the second floor. Go left around the Technology Center and then left again through the double doors into the Genealogy Division.

C.  What are the Genealogy Division and library's hours?

The Genealogy Division is open the same hours as the library.  The library is open 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday  -  Thursday, 9:00 a.m.  -  6:00 p.m. on Friday, 9:00 a.m. -  5:00 p.m. on Saturday, and 1:00 -  5:00 p.m. on Sunday (Sept. - May).  The library is closed on the Memorial Day and Labor Day Monday holidays, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.  Library hours vary during the week of the Pro Football Hall of Fame celebrations.    

D.  Will there be anyone there to help me?

The Genealogy Division is staffed with four full-time genealogists. Barring an unforeseen situation, there should be someone in the department at all times.

E.  What is the parking situation?

Parking is free in the library's lot immediately north of our building. The parking lot entrance is on Market St. There are also un-metered spaces along 8th St. N.W.

F.  Is there anywhere nearby to eat?  What hotel accommodations are available?

Find hotels, restaurants, and other great attractions in the Stark County area.

G.  What Stark County Records are located in the library?

H.  Can I receive genealogy research through e-mail?

Find the form you need to find your information.

I. Can I get genealogy records from other libraries?

The Stark County District Library is now a lending library for the genealogical records from the Mormon Church (LDS). LDS will provide microfilm copies of records it has permission to copy to SCDL customers. The special nature of this service does entail fees, however. LDS will provide a one month rental of a roll of microfilm for $5.50. Customers can also order the film for a three-month lending period for a $16.50 fee, at which time the microfilm will remain on permanent loan to the Stark County District Library. Customers may search the LDS catalog at www.familysearch.org, then visit the library's Genealogy Department to place their order for microfilm.

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Services

A.  Does the library have tax forms available?

Yes, the library does have tax forms and information. However, library employees are not permitted to answer any tax questions.

B.  Does the Stark County District Library offer any book clubs?

Yes, there are a wide variety of book clubs at our locations.

C.  What other activities or programs does the library offer?

The library offers many programs and activities for children, teens, and adults.

D.  Are meeting rooms available?

Yes, there are meeting rooms available at various locations.

E.  What are the schedules for the Bookmobile and Kidmobile?

F.  How can I view and apply for employment opportunities?

G.  How can I volunteer?

Volunteer opportunities are available at many library locations.  Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, at the Jackson Township Branch, 330.833.1010 for more information.

H.  Are book drops available?

Yes, for patron convenience, there is a book drop to return materials at any time at all library locations.

I.  Are drive-up windows available?

Unfortunately, due to budget cutbacks all drive-up windows service has been eliminated at the Stark County District Library.

J.  Is there a special collection for teachers?

Yes, there is an online Educator's Resource service available.

K.  Are books on tape/CD available?

Yes, the library offers a diverse collection of books-on-tape and books-on-CD for children and adults.

L.  Are CD-ROMS available?

Yes, the library has a large assortment of software that may be checked out for use on home computers.

M.  Are music CDs available?

Yes, the library has a large variety of music CDs for children, teens, and adults.

N.  Are large print materials available?

Yes, all of our locations offer substantial collections in large print to make reading easier for patrons.

O.  How can I donate to the library?

The library gratefully accepts donations of money, time, or materials.

P.  Can I register to vote at the library?

Yes, at the circulation desk.

Q.  Can I register for an Ohio Golden Buckeye Card at the library?

Yes, at the circulation desk.

R.  Can I get items from other libraries?

The Stark County District Library offers SearchOhio which allows you to access the catalogs of 17 Ohio public libraries using your Stark County District Library Card. The library also offers online Interlibrary Loan service. If you desire a book that is NOT LISTED in our online catalog, you may request it through SearchOhio or Interlibrary Loan. Use this Interlibrary Loan Form.

S.  Is homework help available?

Yes, the library has programs that can help with homework.

T.  What's happening at the library?

We have special sections devoted to our news and programs.

U.   Are there used books for sale at the library?

Yes, the Friends of the Library run a gift store and monthly book sale at the Main Library.  Most branch locations offer used materials for sale as well.

Library Funding

A. How do we pay for library services?

The Stark County District Library is funded by a combination of state and local tax dollars.  Slightly more than 60% of revenue comes from the State of Ohio Public Library Fund.  Approximately 32% is from a local property tax levy, and approximately 4% is from fees and fines.

B. Why does the library need local funding?

The Stark County District Library encompasses 11 locations, 2 Bookmobiles, 2 Kidmobiles, and Outreach Service to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and the homebound.  In addition, the library provides technology access to all residents. Its collection of 970,600 items includes books, movies, music, and more. And it provides programming which is free and open to the public. Find more information about library funding here.