A Guide to your Library Card

Patron Registration

Each OCLN Member Library sets their own policies for patron registration, including age at which a child may obtain a card, while adhering to the Network's required forms of identification.

Use by Massachusetts Residents who do not reside in an OCLN Community

Massachusetts General Laws (c. 78, s.8)  require that libraries must "... lend books to other libraries in the commonwealth and extend privileges to the holders of cards issued by other public libraries in the commonwealth on a reciprocal basis."

If you are a resident of Massachusetts you may register for a card at any library. Some services like museum passes may be reserved for residents only.

Use By Out of State Residents

OCLN Member Libraries set their own policies for granting privileges to residents of other states.

On-Line Registration

If you are a resident of Massachusetts you may register online for an E-Card. The E-Card may be used to place holds on library materials, and to download ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines from our Overdrive service. After registering for an E-Card , please visit your OCLN Member Public Library to have the E-Card upgraded to a permanent card. The E-Card expires 180 days after the last use.

Library Card Expiration

If you are a resident of an OCLN community, your library card will expire after 3 years of inactivity. Cards for non-residents expire after 1 year.

Availability of Library Materials

OCLN Member Libraries share most materials freely, but may retain new and high demand items for the exclusive use of their local patrons. In addition, downloadable ebooks, audiobooks, and other electronic content may be reserved for local patrons. Access to museum passes, PC workstations, and other special collections and services may also be restricted according to local policy.

Loan Periods and Fine Rates

Each OCLN Member Library sets their own loan period and fine rate. When you place a title on hold, the hold may be filled by a copy owned by another Member Library.  You should understand that loan periods and overdue fines may vary for similar materials owned by different libraries.

Returning Materials

You may return materials owned by OCLN member libraries to any member library. 

Exceptions for museum passes and other items may apply.

Overdue Notices

You will receive overdue notices from the OWNING library. Overdue Notices are sent to the email address on file. If you do not have an email address on file you will receive notices by mail or phone call.

Billing for Damaged Items

You may be billed for by the owning library for items you return that are damaged.

Billing for Lost Items

Items are assumed to be lost when 60 days overdue. You will receive a bill for these items. The bill may include additional processing fees to cover the cost of obtaining a replacement copy and making it ready for use.

Bill Notices

You will receive a bill once you owe over $5.00 in fees and fines.

Bill Notices are sent to the email address on file. If you do not have an email address on file you will receive notices by mail.

Fine Payment

You may pay fines and fee at any OCLN member library.

As a convenience, you may use our online payment system to pay fines and fees of over $5. Library staff are NOT permitted to handle your credit cards or process payments on your behalf. You will be assessed a nominal service charge when making an online payment.

Academic Library Cards

If you are a student or faculty member of an OCLN academic library you may use your card to place holds on materials owned by OCLN public libraries for delivery to the academic library.

If you visit a public library and want to borrow materials you will need to obtain a public library card.