FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long will it take for me to receive my item?
Why does it cost money to borrow, isn't this a library?
Can I pick up or drop off my item(s) and not use Paypal?
Do I have to pay to ship item(s) back?
How should I mail the item(s) back?
What is the address to mail back my item(s)?
How long can I keep the item(s)?
Can I renew the item(s) via email?
Does the librarian receive any money?
How can I donate a book, DVD, or video?
How Do I Borrow?
You borrow by simply clicking on the "enter library" tab on the homepage, agreeing to the rules prior to entering the library, and selecting a resource you want to borrow. Click on the "borrow from library" tab and inform me that you want the item. You can pick it up at my house, or pay through PayPal to have it shipped to your location. You don't have to be a PayPal member, but you have to have a credit card. I will send you an invoice. The cost is usually around $2.00. You are responsible for getting the items back on time, whether you drop them off or ship them back. While there are no fines for overdue items, I do hope you get them back to me on time.
How long will it take for me to receive my item(s)?
If you elect to have the item(s) shipped, it usually takes about 2 to 5 days depending on your location and the postal service used. DVDs will be sent first class mail and arrive sooner, but heavier items, such as, videos or books are mailed via Media Mail rate and take longer. Media Mail is used in order to keep the cost of borrowing low.
Why does it cost money to borrow materials, isn't this a library?
The fees paid for borrowing through the mail cover the cost of postage, envelopes, and Paypal fees. The whole idea of having an online library is for users to access materials conveniently at minimal cost. The fees to borrow are usually around $2.00.
Can I pick up and drop off my item(s) and not use Paypal?
Yes. You can pick-up or drop-off your items at 3410 Aurora Ave in Des Moines, Iowa, or make arrangements by contacting the librarian at 515-274-5660.
Do I have to pay to ship the item(s) back?
Yes, it is up to you to return the item(s) however you choose. You can mail it, or drop it off at 3410 Aurora Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50310.
How should I mail it back to the library?
Use the same envelope that it was sent in, as long as it is still in good condition. I use padded bubble mailers. Be sure to seal it well with tape. If it is a DVD, you can mail it first class (least expensive). If it is a video or a book, you should mail it media mail rate (least expensive). Do not mail it Bound and Printed. Bound and Printed rate does not guarantee return service if it gets lost.
What is the address to mail the item(s) back?
John Wenck, 3410 Aurora Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50310
How Long can I have the item(s) out?
15 days for a DVD or video, and 25 days for a book. The loan periods starts from the date it is mailed to you. Say you checked out a DVD on August 12, but it wasn't mailed until August 14th. The due date for the item would be August 29th--15 days from the date of mailing. The postmark on the package must be on or before the due date. Again, there are no fines, but please try to get the item back on time.
Can I renew the item(s) via email?
Yes, but only for 10 days from the original due date, and only if no one is waiting to borrow it. You can only renew an item once.
Does the librarian receive any money?
No, I receive no money. My job is strictly voluntary.
How can I donate a book, DVD, or video?
I would love to accept your DVD, video, or book donations. You can mail it or drop it off to John Wenck, 3410 Aurora Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50310.
Click the button below to see more detailed information about donating materials.
