Do You Know the Port Jefferson Free Library?: The Circulation and Reference Desks

Welcome back to the Port Jefferson Free Library. The last two articles in this series have been a tour to acquaint patrons with library services.

The Circulation Desk is the first desk that patrons come upon when they walk into the Library. It is to the left when you come in the front door. It is where Library cards are issued. To get a library card you will need photo ID and proof of residence (usually a piece of mail such as a utility bill that is sent to you at your Port Jefferson, Mount Sinai, or Miller Place address). Not sure if the PJFL is your library? Check here to see which library is your home library: http://www.sclsmap.info/

At the Circulation Desk you can return materials, check out your newest selection, and if you requested an item from another library, this is where you pick it up when it has come in.

It happens to us all. Something goes missing, or instead of the dog eating your homework  they end up eating a library DVD. You will need to pay for the damages at the Circulation Desk. The fees collected will allow the Library to replace the damaged item so that others can continue to enjoy it. While only a few items accrue fines, some do have them and those fines need to be paid. The Circulation Desk is the “cashier” of the Library.

Don’t forget if you select an item and notice it has an issue before you check it out,

please let someone know so they can make sure that you will not be billed for the damage. If your CD or DVD it doesn’t play or plays with issues, please let us know so it can be sent it for repair. Library items do see a lot of use, so wear and tear is inevitable. We will be happy to arrange for a replacement copy for you.

Having a library card and being able to check out items is great, but your library card is good for more than just materials. Come to the Reference Desk and get even more!

The Reference Desk is the next desk once you have walked past the Circulation Desk. The Reference Desk is staffed by professional librarians. The librarians are always happy to help answer any questions you may have about the Library and its many services. At the Reference Desk you can use your Library card to register for many of our diverse programs. Sign up to learn new skills, get in touch with your creative side, or learn about other cultures and traditions.

Sometimes an item you are looking for is not on the shelf or the Library may not own that particular item. The Reference Librarian will be happy to find a copy of the item in question and put it on hold for you. If the item cannot be found, the Library will try to order it. Found an item that says it should be available, but when you go to the shelf it’s not there? Ask the Reference Librarian they will be happy to take a second look and see if they can find it for you. Sometimes two sets of eyes or better than one.

When it works, technology can be very helpful, but when it has issues, not so much. When you need some extra help let the Library come to the rescue. We have one on one Device Advice assistance. One of the Reference librarians will work with you to help you get the most out of your device. Sign up here to make an appointment: http://www.portjefflibrary.org/deviceadvice.html

Remember if you have a computer issue, you can always use the Library’s computers. All you need to do is select a computer and input your Library barcode (the number on the back of your Library card). This service can also be used by non cardholders as well. Simply present your photo ID to the librarian  at the Reference Desk and the librarian will give you a guest pass that will allow you access for one hour. (There is a limit of three hours a day for guests).

Last, but not least, the Reference desk is here to help you with research. Need help finding information on a particular topic? We can help you find great resources. We can get books from other libraries (including the New York State library for more academic research), help you use our databases, and help you find quality online sources.

Looking for the daily newspaper? We are now holding them at the Reference Desk, so just ask and we will be happy to give it to you. All we ask is that you return it when you are finished.

As always if you are looking for new reading suggestions, please stop by the Reference Desk. The librarians will be glad to help you find some new great books! We love reading, and we love to share our favorites. (We watch TV and movies too, so feel free to ask us for recommendations too!)

The Reference Librarians are glad to answer any and all questions you might have, so come over and ask!