Library Services

Library Services

How to get a card:

1. Library cards are free to all patrons. Patrons must show a current/valid picture ID to receive a library card.
2. Juveniles may apply for their own cards (there is no minimum age). A parent or guardian must sign their child’s registration card and must present the signed card in person to the library. Parents must show a current/valid picture ID. Parents or guardians are responsible for all materials checked out by their children.
3. Juveniles have access to the Internet when they get their own card. Parents, please add your child's name to your card if you do not want your child to have Internet access.
4. If address on ID is incorrect, patron is required to show supplemental proof of residency.
5. Patrons may have a delay of up to 48 hours to receive their new library card.
6. Replacement of a lost card incurs a fee of $1.00.

Loan periods:

All materials circulate for two weeks, with a 10 cent fine for each day late. Patrons may renew materials in person, over the phone (512.332.8880) or online at www.bastroplibrary.org. Materials may be renewed twice as long as there is not a person waiting to get the material. Materials may be returned inside the library during business hours. The outside book drop is open 24 hours a day and is located on the east side of the library.

Please read our new Circulation Policy effective 2-24-2009

Computers:

The library has twenty-four public access workstations, from which users may access the  Internet, and other resources such as word processing software. Patrons under 18 must have their own library card to use the computers. Computers are divided into three usage groups: adult, teen, and children. Three study rooms with computers are available on a first-come basis.

Please take time to read our Guidelines for Acceptable Use of Computers.

Interlibrary Loan:

The library is connected to a nationwide bibliographic database from which the library can request any item available from libraries all over the United States. There will be a return postage fee of $2.00 for this service, beginning October 1, 2008. Patrons are limited to three requests at a time. Loan periods are for two weeks, and requests for renewals are handled on a case-by-case basis, depending on the policies of the lending library.

Please take time to read our Interlibrary Loan Policy.

Donations:

Donations of books, periodicals, and audio and video materials in good condition will be accepted by the library. Staff will determine if donated items are to be added to the collection. Donated items not added to the collection are given to the Friends of the Bastrop Public Library. The Friends offer the donated material for sale as an ongoing sale in the library lobby and / or at an annual sale.

Other services:

The library also makes available a typewriter, copy machine, and a microfilm reader/printer. With prior arrangement, library staff will proctor distance education exams.

Share your collection

The Bastrop Public Library has a museum display case in the reference area for securing your historic or educational collectibles for exhibition to the public on a volunteer basis each season. Please ask for an application form and policy at the check-out desk.