How Can We Help You?

Who can get an Eldredge Public Library CLAMS card?

  • Any adult may get an Eldredge Public Library card with proof of ID.  Children must be 5 years of age to get a card, and all children under the age of 18 need the consent of a parent or guardian in order to borrow materials from the Eldredge Public Library.

How do I log into my account?

What if I don't have or have lost my pin number?

  • We automatically assign the last 4 digits of your library card number as your pin number, unless you have specifically asked for a different number or assigned your own pin number.  If you need your pin number reset, please call or visit the library.

How can I renew my materials?

  • Items will automatically renew unless their are existing holds
  • In person at the library
  • By phone at 508-945-5170
  • Online through the CLAMS online catalog.  Log into your account using your library barcode and PIN number

How many times can I renew?

  • As long as no one is waiting for the materials, you may renew three times.

How long can I borrow materials for?

  • Most items have a loan period of 2 weeks.  Movies have a 1 week loan period. 

Can I return another library's materials to you?

  • Yes.  Any items from the CLAMS network can be returned here and we will get it back to the owning location.

Is there  a limit on the number of items that I can take out on my library card?

  • The total number of items checked out on your account is limited to 50.  However, some types of items have their own specific limits.  Please see our Borrowers Policy and Restrictions for more detailed information.

Can I search the library catalog from home?

Can I request  books or get my name on a waiting list?

  • Yes.  You can do this through the CLAMS catalog by locating the item and clicking the "place a hold" button.   You will need your library barcode and PIN number to do this.  You can also ask the staff to place requests for you - ask at the desk or give us a call at 508-945-5170.

Can I return my items if you are closed?

  • Yes.  We have a return box in the parking lot behind the Library on Library Lane.

Do you have museum passes?

I have books to donate.   Can I bring them to the library?

  • Yes.  Please see our Book Sale page for guidelines.

When is the book sale open?

Can I send  or receive a fax from the library?

  • Yes.  Sending: $2.00 for 1st page, $1.00 for each additional page; Receiving: $1.00 per page.
    Our fax number is 508-945-5173. If receiving, please have sender put your name and phone number so we can contact you.

Do you have a copy machine?  Is it color?

  • We have a black & white copy machine.  Copies are $.15 per copy.

Can I scan documents at the library?

  • Yes, you can scan documents and pictures in several formats to your email or USB.  There is no charge for scanning.

Does the library have wi-fi?

  •  Yes.  We are the "eldredge" network.  No log in or password is needed.

Do you have a printer I can use?

  • Yes. You can print from all of our public computers.  We have a wireless printer for laptops and mobile devices.

Does the library have public computers?  Do I need a library card to use them?

  • We have public computers, free of charge, for adults, teens and children.  You do not need to be a library member to use the computers.    You do need to sign up for computer time, which fills up quickly in the summer time.  You can sign up in person or call the library at 508-945-5170.   See our Computer Information  page for more information.

How can I find out information about upcoming programs?

When was the library built?

  • The library was built in 1896.  Please see our Library History page for more detailed information.

Was this always a library?

  • Yes.  The library was a gift to the people of Chatham by Marcellus Eldredge in 1896.   Please see our Library History page for more detailed information.

How can I get materials if I am homebound?

Who should I contact if I need some research assistance?

  • You can reach our Reference Department through email or by phone, 508-945-5170.

Do you have meeting space available?

  • Yes.  We have a meeting room space available to non-profit organizations.  Please see our Meeting Room page for more information and to download the meeting reservation forms.

Do you have space for tutoring or a quiet area where I can study?

  • Yes.  Our Quiet Study Room is the best location in the library for tutoring and study.  Room reservation forms can be downloaded on our Meeting Room page.

Who should I talk to about volunteering?

  • The library offers many opportunities for volunteers.  Please download the volunteer form and return it to the Front Desk.

How do I sign up for the library newsletter and emails about programs and events?