Help & Reader Service Center – Municipal Library
Welcome to our Library Help Center. Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions, guides on how to use our online catalog, information about e-book systems, and the rules for using our services.
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## 📌 Table of Contents
1. [How to Join the Library?](#1-how-to-join-the-library)
2. [Borrowing, Returns, and Renewals](#2-borrowing-returns-and-renewals)
3. [Online Account Management (OPAC Catalog)](#3-online-account-management-opac-catalog)
4. [E-books and Audiobooks (Legimi, Empik Go, Ibuk Libra)](#4-e-books-and-audiobooks-legimi-empik-go-ibuk-libra)
5. [Using the Reading Room and Computers](#5-using-the-reading-room-and-computers)
6. [Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)](#6-frequently-asked-questions-faq)
7. [Contact and Support](#7-contact-and-support)
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## 1. How to Join the Library?
To borrow physical books and gain access to our digital resources, you need to register and obtain a library card.
### Who can join?
* Any resident (regardless of age).
* Minors can register with the consent of a parent or legal guardian.
### What do you need?
1. **A valid ID** (ID card, passport, mObywatel app, or a student ID for school-aged children).
2. **A completed registration form** (available at the front desk or downloadable as a PDF from our website).
> 💡 **Tip:** Your first library card is issued completely **free of charge**. In case of loss, a replacement card costs 5 PLN.
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## 2. Borrowing, Returns, and Renewals
### Borrowing Limits and Terms
* **Printed Books:** up to 5 items for a period of 30 days.
* **Audiobooks / Board Games:** up to 2 items for a period of 14 days.
### How to Extend the Return Deadline (Renewals)
If you need more time to finish a book, you can renew it for an additional 30 days. You can do this in three ways:
1. **Online:** By logging into your account via the library catalog (no later than the due date).
2. **By Phone:** By calling your local library branch.
3. **In Person:** By visiting any of our branches.
*Note: Renewal is not possible if the item has already been reserved by another reader or if you have outstanding library fees.*
### Returns After Hours
A **24/7 Book Drop Box** is available outside the main library building. You can return books there at any time of the day or night. Returned items will be processed and removed from your account on the next business day.
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## 3. Online Account Management (OPAC Catalog)
Our online catalog allows you to browse our collection, reserve books, and manage your account.
### First-Time Login
1. Go to the main catalog page (click the *Online Catalog* link in the menu).
2. Click the **Log In** button in the top right corner.
3. **Login:** Your library card number (found under the barcode).
4. **Password:** Upon registration, the system generates a temporary password (usually your PESEL number or your last name capitalized). You will be prompted to change this password after your first login.
### Requesting and Reserving Books
* **Available Item:** Clicking "Request" means the librarian will hold the book for you. You have **5 business days** to pick it up.
* **Borrowed Item:** Clicking "Reserve" places you in the queue. You will receive an automated email notification as soon as the book is returned.
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## 4. E-books and Audiobooks (Legimi, Empik Go, Ibuk Libra)
As a registered reader, you have free access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks through popular digital platforms.
### How to Claim Your Free Access Code
1. Access codes are distributed starting from the **first business day of each month**.
2. To get a code, send an email to `ebooki@biblioteka-przyklad.pl` containing your name, surname, and library card number, or ask a librarian in person.
3. The number of codes is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis!
### Where to Activate Your Code
* **Legimi:** `legimi.pl/biblioteka_przyklad`
* **Empik Go:** `empikgo.pl/biblioteka_przyklad`
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## 5. Using the Reading Room and Computers
* **Free Wi-Fi:** The `Biblioteka_Guest` network is available throughout the entire building (no password required, simply accept the terms and conditions on the splash page).
* **Computer Stations:** Readers are entitled to free computer use for up to 1 hour per day (extension is possible if no one else is waiting).
* **Printing and Photocopying:** This is a paid service according to the following price list:
* A4 Printout (Black & White): 0.50 PLN / page
* A4 Printout (Color): 2.00 PLN / page
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## 6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ **What should I do if I lose or damage a library book?**
> In the event of loss or damage, you are required to purchase the exact same title (or a newer edition) to replace it. Please contact a librarian beforehand to arrange the details.
❓ **I forgot my password for the online account. How can I reset it?**
> On the catalog login page, click the "Forgot Password" link. Enter your login/card number and the email address associated with your account. A reset link will be sent to you automatically.
❓ **Can I return a book to a different branch than the one I borrowed it from?**
> Yes, we accept returns at any of our library branches across the city, although we highly encourage returning items to their original location when possible.
❓ **Are there fines for overdue books?**
> Yes. The fine for late returns is **0.20 PLN per day** for each overdue item. Your library account will be temporarily suspended until all outstanding fees are settled.
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## 7. Contact and Support
Do you have a question or problem not covered above? Feel free to contact us!
* **Support Hotline:** +48 22 123 45 67 (Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sat 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
* **Technical Support Email:** `pomoc@biblioteka-przyklad.pl`
* **Mailing Address:** Municipal Library – Reader Service Department
ul. Książkowa 12, 00-001 Przykładowo
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*Last updated: May 19, 2026*