Library Cards

How Do I Get a Library Card?

To get a library card, you will need an New York State photo ID. If the address on your ID isn’t current, bring proof of your current address, such as mail postmarked within the past 30 days. Students may use a school ID to apply for a library card; if an applicant is under 14, a parent or legal guardian must sign the application.

Out-of-state residents can sign up for a library card for $10 a year. 

Your library card grants you access to the collections of all 36 libraries in the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System.

Looking for additional digital materials? New York residents ages 13 and older can get a digital library card through the New York Public Library’s online card application.

Sign up for a temporary library card here!A temporary card can be used to access the library’s online resources, including e-books and e-audiobooks via Libby.

Renewals, Returns, and Holds:

RENEWALS: Renew items over the phone, online, or in the library. Renewals are not permitted if another patron has placed a hold on the item. Items can be renewed beginning 3 days prior to the item’s due date.

RETURNS: Please return items to the Circulation Desk. After hours, use the book deposit slot near the main entrance. Returns are backdated to the previous day that the library was open.

HOLDS: Prendergast Library is a part of the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System. Materials from other libraries can be requested and delivered here for pickup, free of charge.

Loan Periods and Late Fees:

If items are not returned or renewed by their due date, overdue fees will be charged on Adult accounts. Children’s and Young Adult accounts do not accrue late fees.

If an item is 6 weeks overdue, your account will be charged for the cost of the item – this charge is removed once the item is returned. 

 Books, audiobooks, magazines, CDs, Library of Things

Loan Period

3 weeks

Renewals

Up to four times

Late fees

15 cents per item per day. Maximum late fees are $5 per item.

DVDs

Loan Period

1 week

Renewals

Up to two times

Late fees

50 cents per item per day.

If you have any questions, call the Circulation Desk at (716) 484-7135 ext. 233 or email us.

The library is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.