Do I need a library card?

No - if you are regularly attending Occoquan Bible Church or if you are in the homeschooling co-op, then you may borrow items from the library.

How do I check something out?

The library is set up to be self-serve. There should be a card in the back of the item you want to borrow. Please remove the card, put your name in the proper space and the date that it should be brought back. There is a place on the pocket where you can also record the due date so that you will know when to bring the item back. There is a box where you can deposit the card after you have filled it out.

What do I do with the item when I return it?

There are a couple of plastic crates in the library. If you could gently place your items there, I will check them back in and put them back on the shelf.

How many items can I check out?

Currently, three items per family. The library is still growing. Since we don't have lots of items to circulate, it's best if we limit families to a specific number of items.

How long can I keep what I check out?

For one month - whether it's a book, a movie, a tape… Please return it in a month. If you need to keep it longer than that, you should probably think about purchasing it for your home library.

How long can I keep homeschooling materials?

For one month - the curriculum items we have on the shelf are meant as a help to you in selecting what curriculum you would like to use with your families -- not to be used by you as a part of your curriculum for a whole year.

Can I donate items to the library?

Yes! The library is happy to receive new and used items that can be added to the shelves. However, I cannot guarantee that the item that you donate will be added. There are many reasons why an item might not be appropriate. If for some reason the library cannot use the item, it will be sold either in the OBC yard sale or at the homeschooling convention. We cannot accept cash donations at this time. But you are welcome to donate items.

I know you have an item but I don't see it on the shelf - can I ask that it be held for me?

Yes - just leave a post it note on the bulletin board and I will let you know when the item is returned.

Can I request specific items be purchased?

Yes - you can add items to the wish list. Just write down what you would like to see in the library and tack it on the bulletin board - or any other suggestions and I will review them. Bear in mind, though, the library has a very small budget. So we can't purchase all items that are requested.

The item that I want to check out does not have a pocket or a card. What does that mean?

It could mean one of two things - either it's a new addition to the library and I have not had time to process it yet. Or it could mean that it is a reference item that cannot leave the library. Either way, you won't be able to check it out. Ask me - I can either process it or let you know why it can't leave the library.

What happens if I lose an item or damage an item that I have checked out?

We will ask you to either replace the item yourself or pay for the item so that it can be replaced.

What happens if an item is late?

You will receive a postcard in the mail asking you to return the item the next time you come to church. Please return all items promptly - there may be other people waiting to check them out.