What are your hours?
You can find the hours to the Main Library and all of the Branches by going to the Locations page and finding the particular library; or click here for a map of our locations provided by Google.
How do I get a library card?
Any resident of the state of Ohio may obtain a library card from any Lima Public Library location. You can apply for a library card at any service desk; they are issued at no charge. Present a valid photo ID with your current local address information. If your photo ID does not have your current local address, please supply an additional document as your proof of address (such as a piece of mail). You will then have full borrowing privileges. Any person under the age of 18 who wishes to get a library card must be accompanied by parents or legal guardians who will sign financial responsibility statements. Parents or legal guardians must have a card in good standing before they can register a child for a card. Legal guardians must show guardianship papers.
What if I am not physically able to visit the library?
The Extension Department offers monthly delivery of items to residents who are physically or visually disabled and unable to visit the library. For more information, call the Homebound Coordinator at 419-228-5113.
Does the library have a notary public?
No, the library does not have a notary public available.
Does the library carry tax forms?
Yes, the library carries some Federal and State tax forms sent by those institutions. The Reference Department can help you locate any additional forms you may need.
Do you have computers available for public use? What software is on them?
Yes, all Lima Public Library locations have computers available for public use. The computers have the Windows 10 operating system. Software includes the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Publisher) as well as a variety of internet browsers (Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Chrome).
Can I see what I have checked out or renew my items online?
Yes, log in by accessing the library catalog and click the "Log In" button in the upper right corner. Enter your library barcode and your PIN (typically, the last four digits of your Social Security Number).
Do you have meeting rooms available?
Yes. We have several meeting spaces of varying size. For more information click here, or call the library at 419-228-5113.
How much does it cost to print?
Printing is $0.20 per page for single-sided pages and $0.40 per page for double-sided pages. You can also make black and white photocopies for the same cost per page.
Does the library have color printers?
Yes. The library offers color printing. Color printing is $0.50 per page for single-sided page and $1 per page for double-sided pages. You can also make color photocopies for the same cost per page.
Do you have wireless internet access?
Yes, all locations offer free unsecured wireless internet access.
Where are your Branches located?
Our Branches are located in the communities of Cairo, Elida, Lafayette and Spencerville. You can find the addresses to the Main Library and all of the Branches on our Locations page or click here for a map
Are there any limits to items available for checkout?
Yes. A total of 50 items can be on a patron's account at any given time. Additionally, some types of material have their own limits; for example, only 10 DVDs can be checked out at a time.
How long can items be checked out?
Many items check out for 28 days, but some of our more in-demand collections have shorter loan periods like New Fiction and Nonfiction (14 days) or DVDs (7 days).
How far back do you carry the Lima News?
The Lima News goes back as far as April 24, 1905 on microfilm.
Does the library offer a fax service?
No, the library does not have a fax machine available.
Can I return items to any other location?
Yes, you may return items to any of our locations, regardless of where you checked them out.