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Library Card / Account

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a Nicholson Memorial Library System card?

Local Residents

A Library card is available to residents of Garland and surrounding communities. You must be 18 with a valid photo ID to get your own Library card. Otherwise, a parent or legal guardian with ID would need to cosign. Please bring your unexpired official state photo ID (Texas driver’s license, Texas ID, Matricula, out of state license) with your full name and current address on the ID. If the ID does not show your current address, you must present proof of address. Acceptable items for proof of address include current utility bill, lease agreement, auto insurance or bank statement. The proof of address has to have your name on it.

Replacing a Card

If you had a card and need to replace it bring your current unexpired official state photo ID and a $2 replacement fee to any Garland Library and get a new card.

2. How old do you have to be to get a library card?

You must be 18 with a unexpired official state photo ID to get your own Library card. Otherwise, a parent or legal guardian with ID would need to cosign. If you have any questions, call the Circulation Desk at 972-205-2524.

3. What types of identification do I need to get a library card?

Please bring your unexpired official state photo ID (Texas driver’s license, Texas ID, Passport, Matricula, out of state license) with your full name and current address on the ID. If the ID does not show your current address, you must present proof of address. Acceptable items for proof of address include current utility bill, lease agreement, auto insurance or bank statement. The proof of address has to have your name on it. People with addresses in Northeast Texas will be eligible for full library cards. People residing outside our service area will be eligible for visitor cards that can be used for internet and Wi-Fi access only. If you have any questions, call the Circulation Desk at 972-205-2524.

4. Can I check my library account online?

Yes, you can check your account by clicking on Library Catalog and choosing the My Account tab. Enter your library card number and PIN to see your account information, if you have any fines, what you have on hold, what you have out and when it is due as well as renew any items you have out (provided no one else has requested them and you have not renewed them more than 6 times). Email Library Support or Inter-library Loans (for inter-library loans) with any questions, comments or concerns.

See also:

• How much are overdue fines?
• How do I pay fines online with a credit or debit card?

5. How do I find out what my PIN is?

Your PIN is the last 4 digits of the phone number we have on file for you. You can change your PIN in My Account in the Personal Information tab.

6. What if I do not remember what phone number I have in my Library account?

To update your phone number or change your PIN to a different 4 digit number please visit the Circulation Desk at any of the Garland libraries.

7. Can I see what items I have checked out?

Yes, you can check your account by clicking on Library Catalog and choosing the My Account tab. Enter your Library Card number and PIN and click Log In. From here you can see what you have on hold, what you have out and when it is due as well as renew any items you have out (provided no one else has requested them and you have not renewed them more than 6 times). Email Library Support with any questions, comments or concerns or call the Circulation Desk at 972-205-2524.

8. Can I see what items I have requested/placed on hold?

Yes, you can check your account by clicking on Library Catalog and choosing the My Account tab. Enter your Library Card number and PIN and click Log In. From here you can see what you have on hold, what you have out and when it is due as well as renew any items you have out (provided no one else has requested them and you have not renewed them more than 6 times). Email Library Support with any questions, comments or concerns or call the Circulation Desk at 972-205-2524.

9. Can I see what items I have requested through inter-library loan?

Viewing the status of your inter-library requests:

1. Go to the Texas Group Catalog.
2. Hover over "Texas Group Catalog" in the upper left corner and choose My Requests.
3. Choose “Garland/Nicholson Memorial Library System” as your home library.
4. Click on “Continue.”
5. Enter your library card number.
6. Enter your PIN.
7. Click “Login.”
8. After signing in, you will see all of your active requests and their statuses:
   • "New" - this is a new request.
   • "Pending" - Currently, the Texas Group Catalog software is sending requests to libraries on your behalf.
   • "Shipped" - the item is on its way to Garland for you!
   • "Received" - the item has been received by the Garland Public Library. Some processing will be required and then it will be sent to your branch for pick up. When it is ready for pick up at your branch, you will get notified just like you get notified for all other holds. You'll have ten days to pick it up after it's ready.

Not seeing your hold? When cancelled, a hold drops off your request list and an email is sent to the email address you provided with an explanation for the cancellation. Also, there is no historical record of your requests. Once the library receives and process the request, it drops off your request list in the Texas Group Catalog.

10. Do library cards expire?

Yes, they do. Every four years we require patrons to present an unexpired official state photo ID with current address at any Garland Library. If you go to My Account in the Library portal and click on the Personal Information tab you can see the date your library privileges expire. Please renew on or before that date for continuous service.

11. Why can't I login?

The newest version of the Library Portal supports these browsers:

• Windows Edge latest two versions for Windows
• Google Chrome latest version for Windows and Macintosh
• Mozilla Firefox latest version for Windows and Macintosh
• Safari latest two versions for Mac

The login box is a pop up window so you may need to add https://nm.ent.sirsi.net to your list of allowed sites. The Place Hold box and the item detail screen are also pop up boxes.

Browser issues

The appearance of the Library portal interface and performance speed may vary based on the specific web browser and browser settings you are using. 

12. Will I get charged if I don’t return an item?

While we are not charging late fines, we are charging for lost items. When an item is 7 days overdue, your account will be charged the replacement cost of the item, plus a processing fee. You will be responsible for those charges until you bring back the overdue item.

13. How will I know if I have overdue items?

Check your account status and sign up for automated text or email service through Library Elf at http://library.garlandtx.gov. You can even download our library app. Search for Garland PL in the Apple or Android store.

14. I currently have overdue fines. Do I still have to pay them?

No. Visit your nearest library location and staff will clear those fines. We are working to clear accounts of overdue fines, which may take a few weeks.

15. I lost the items that are charged to my account, but I can’t afford to pay the replacement costs. Will you clear those charges?

We will not clear the cost of an item if it is lost or damaged. However, come talk with us. In most cases, we can find a way to allow you to pay for lost items in installments.

16. What if I have lost items on my account but I still have them? Can I still bring them back?

Yes! If they are still in good condition and less than a year overdue, bring them back and the charges on your account will be cleared.

17. Is the library going to lose money by not collecting fines?

Any fines and fees collected by the library goes to the city’s general fund, not the library directly. With the popularity of eBook checkouts (which don’t accrue fines) and our automated due date reminder system, the amount of overdue fines charged to accounts has decreased over the last few years. As we’ve learned, some people with fines will no longer use the library and we don’t want that. We would rather have our patrons use the library than feel punished for fines they cannot pay.  

18. What about personal responsibility?

Library users are still responsible to bring items back. Library accounts will be charged the replacement cost of an item and a processing fee of $5.00 when an item is 7 days overdue. The account will be inactivated until the item is returned.

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Library Materials

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1. Can I access the Library Catalog online?

Yes, using the Library Catalog online is the same as using it in the Library. Email Library Support with any questions, comments or concerns.

2. How long can library materials be kept?

Item	Quantities	Loan Period
Books	up to 99	21 days
Audio books (CD)	up to 12	21 days
DVDs	up to 12	7 days
Downloadable items	up to 10	7 days or 21 days
Interlibrary Loan		See your receipt, determined by lending library

Quantities

This is the number of items you can have on your library card at a time.

Renewing your materials:

Items owned by the Garland Libraries can be renewed up to 6 times provided no one has placed a hold on the item.  If you need to renew an Interlibrary Loan, please email the ILL Department and request an extension at least 7 days before the item is due.  

Online Renewal

Go to My Account on the Library Catalog page, enter your Library Card number and PIN and click Log In. Click on Checkouts, select the items you want to renew and click Renew.

Telecirc Telephone Renewal

Call 972-205-2514 to access the automated phone system. It will ask you for your Library Card number and PIN to access your account. This is an automated system and will not get you to a staff member.

Neither of these methods will renew your books if they are overdue. If you need assistance from a Circulation staff member call 972-205-2524.

Returning your materials:

Books, DVDs and audiobooks checked out from a Garland Library can be returned to any Garland Library.  Items are checked in automatically when they are placed in our automated return system.

Materials downloaded from OverDrive will return themselves on their due date. Please visit the OverDrive page for more information on downloadable books.

Overdue Fines

The library will no longer charge late fees on materials returned after their due dates. Library staff do ask that users be considerate of other patrons and return or renew borrowed items at their earliest convenience. Items can still be overdue and items that are not returned or renewed will be considered lost. The charge for a lost item is the replacement cost, plus a five-dollar processing fee and you will not be able to use your library card until the item is returned or paid for and cleared from your account.

If you lose, damage or do not return an item you will be charged the cost to replace it plus a $5 processing fee.  Replacement fees for interlibrary loan books are determined by the lending library. We do not accept replacement copies for damaged or lost materials.          

3. How do I renew my library materials?

Online

Go to My Account on the Library Catalog page, enter your Library Card number and PIN and click Log In. (If it goes back to the main page click My Account again.) Click on Checkouts, select the items you want to renew and click Renew.

Telecirc

Call 972-205-2514 to access the automated phone system. It will ask you for your Library Card number and PIN to access your account. This is an automated system and will not get you to a staff member.

Neither of these methods will renew your books if they are overdue. If you need assistance from a Circulation staff member call 972-205-2524.

4. Can I renew my items over the phone?

You can call the 24-hour TeleCirc Service at 972-205-2514 to renew titles, hear a list of what you have checked out, and access other information on your library account. You will be asked to input your library card number and PIN.

5. Can I renew my items online?

Yes, you can check your account by clicking on Library Catalog, choosing the My Account tab, enter your Library Card number and PIN and click Log In. From here you can see what you have on hold, what you have out and when it is due as well as renew any items you have out (provided no one else has requested them and you have not renewed them more than 6 times). Email Library Support with any questions, comments or concerns or call the Circulation Desk at 972-205-2524.

6. Where can I return library materials?

Books, DVDs and audiobooks checked out from a Garland Library can be returned to any Garland Library. Materials downloaded from OverDrive will return themselves on their due date. Please visit the OverDrive page for more information on downloadable books.

*Beginning Oct. 1, 2018, library materials will be checked in immediately upon return by our automated system. Materials must be returned by 11:59 p.m. on the due date to avoid a late fee.

7. How much are overdue fines?

We are happy to announce that the Garland Public Library will be fine free as of October 1, 2021!  This means will we discontinue charging fines for overdue material starting immediately.  

We are working to clear accounts of overdue fines, which may take a few weeks. In the meantime, you can request to have your account cleared of overdue fines for returned materials when you visit. 

In the future, when an item is 7 days overdue, the account will be made inactive until the overdue items are returned.  The replacement cost of the item plus a processing fee will be charged to the account.  These charges will be cleared, and the account reactivated, as soon as the item is returned.  

8. What happens if I lost or damaged an item I borrowed from the Library?

If you lose, damage or do not return an item you will be charged the cost to replace it plus a $5 processing fee. Replacement fees for interlibrary loan books are determined by the lending library. If you have any questions, call the Circulation Desk at 972-205-2524.

9. How do I pay fines online with a credit or debit card?

You can now pay library fees online through your library account. We accept Visa, MasterCard and Discover credit or debit cards. All credit/debit transactions must be done through the library website. We do not charge a transaction fee and payments are handled via a secure website.

1. Visit the Library Catalog and click on My Account
2. Enter your Library card number and PIN.
3. Click on the "Fines" tab.
4. "Current Fines/Blocks" should be displayed.
5. Click the Pay Fines Button
6. Review the total. Fines must be paid all at once when paying online.
7. Check the “email me a receipt” box and enter a correct email address. A correct email address is required to receive a receipt.
8. Enter your information and submit payment.
9. ProPay will process your payment and update your library account in real time.
10. A receipt will be sent to the email address you provide and will appear on your bank/credit card statement as “PP*Nicholson Memoria.”

If you experience difficulty signing in to your account, call the Circulation Desk at 972-205-2500 or stop by any Garland Library.

The Details

• All credit/debit payments must go through the Library website. Library staff can assist with the website but cannot handle credit/debit cards or input customer information to process payments online.
• A third party provider (ProPay, Inc.) is used to process fines, fees or otherwise initiate credit/debit card transactions via the library’s website.
• This transaction is protected by SSL certification, a protocol for transmitting data securely and complies with PCI-DSS standards (PCI-DSS stands for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards).
• The Nicholson Memorial Library System does not collect or store any personal information or credit or debit card processing data.
• Library fees are cleared in real time from your library account during the payment process.
• If your account continues to display outstanding fees please contact the library for assistance.
• Library processing fees on items that were previously paid for are not eligible for a refund.
• Lost item costs, minus the processing fee of $5 per item, can be refunded if the item is found within 90 days after payment. You must have your receipt.
• A failed transaction may leave a pending charge on your account. These "pre-authorized" amounts normally clear within 24 hours.

10. How do I place a hold?

• Enter your search terms in the Library catalog search box, choose the fields you want to search and click search. 
• To the left of your search results are facets that allow you to refine your search. 
• When you find a title you want to reserve, click on Place a Hold, enter your library card number and PIN and click on Login. 
• Select the pickup location (CEN = Central, NGB = North Garland Branch, SGB = South Garland Branch and WCB = Walnut Creek Branch) and click on Place Hold. If you are already logged in you will only be asked for the pickup location.

11. Does the Library have downloadable books? Videos?

We have downloadable books through OverDrive. You can download books from the library catalog, from OverDrive or from either the OverDrive app or Libby app. Use of OverDrive does require a valid Garland Library Card without any fines that would prevent checkout. We do not have downloadable or streaming videos at this time. Email Library Support with any questions, comments or concerns.

12. Do you have Garland Independent School District (GISD) textbooks at the library?

Yes, the Central Library has Garland ISD textbooks in the Children's Reference Department. They cannot be checked out but can be used inside the library. Call the Children's Desk at 972-205-2517 for more information.

13. Does the Library have a Cole (Criss-Cross) Directory?

Yes, this is kept in Reference at Garland's Central Library and must be used in person. Lease agreements with the publisher do not allow us to give information from this directory over the phone or via email.

14. Can I donate old books and magazines to the library?

Yes, newer items and items in good condition will be considered for the library collection. If not added by the library, items are passed along to the Friends of the library for their annual book sale. Items the Friends will take include:

• Books for all ages
• Books in foreign languages
• Books of all kinds: fiction and non-fiction
• Books on all subjects
• CDs
• DVDs
• Puzzles and games

Donated items may be dropped off at any Garland library location. If you need assistance carrying in your donations, please ask for help at the Check-out Desk. Any books not used by the library or the Friends will go to a special recycler and all funds earned from recycling go to the Friends of the Library to be used for the benefit of the Garland Libraries.

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Library Programs & Events

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1. Does your library offer storytimes?

Yes, visit the Children's Page or call 972-205-2517 for more information.

2. What are the ages for the storytimes?

Groups and age ranges:

• Wee Read Ages 0 to 17 months
• Toddler Storytime Ages 18 to 36 months
• Preschool Storytime Ages 3 to 5 years
• Family Storytime All Ages

Visit the Children's Page or call 972-205-2517 for more information.

3. Do you have to have a library card to attend a program?

We would like you to have a library card but it is not required for most programs. Computer classes do require you to have a Garland Library Card and some programs do require you to register before you attend so please check the Events and Programming page or call 972-205-2501 for more information.

4. How do I find out what's going on at the Garland Libraries?

The Garland Libraries have a variety of ways you can stay informed about programming and events as well as library news. The Friends of the Library have The Access, which showcases programs and events. Pick one up at the library, read it online, or subscribe to have it delivered to your email. We have Twitter and Facebook pages you can like. We also have an online calendar with an RSS feed you can subscribe to.

5. Does the Library offer proctoring?

No, the Garland Libraries no longer offer proctoring. Please call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501 and we can help you locate a place that can accommodate you.

6. Does the library have a Notary Public?

No, we do not. Please call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501 and we can help you locate a place that does offer Notaries.

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Online Resources & Databases

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1. How do I access the Online Resources?

When you get to the Library's page you will see a link to the Online Resources. Click on the link to see the alphabetical tabs, then select the resource you want to use. If you are outside the Library you will be asked to enter your card number and PIN before the resource you have chosen opens.

We use EZProxy to authenticate patrons into the electronic resources. Some people have experienced problems displaying the login page to get to the resources. Examples of this behavior include receiving "page cannot be displayed" or the browser times out. If you are experiencing this, it may be that your firewall is preventing you from getting to the resources. There are 3 things you can try:

1. Clear (delete) the temporary Internet files in your browser,
2. Add http://ezproxy.nmls.lib.tx.us as a trusted site in your browser,
3. Add http://ezproxy.nmls.lib.tx.us as an exception or allowed site in your firewall.

Due to the number and complexity of firewalls we cannot help you configure this but you should be able to find documentation or a support page on your firewall manufacturer’s website.  

If none of these things work, please contact library support.

2. Do you have tutoring at the library?

The Library provides Online tutoring for all ages from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. every day through HelpNow, JobNow and the Adult Learning Center. Online Tutoring is available in English and Spanish. A valid Garland Library card is required to use this resource. If you have any questions call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501 or send an email to Library Support.

HelpNow- Online tutoring and skills building for K-12 students; also includes a writing lab, test center, study & collaborate tools plus a foreign language center for help with your foreign language homework.

JobNow - Instant help with your job search including resume analysis and live interview coaching.

Adult Learning Center - Live coaching to achieve your goals; GED & Citizenship tutoring; Resume & Career Resources; Microsoft Office help - learn Word, Excel and/or PowerPoint.

3. Does the Library have any online genealogy resources?

Yes, we have HeritageQuest, which can be used in the library or from home. This resource does require a valid Garland Library card. Email Library Support with any questions, comments or concerns.

We may be losing access to this resource on or near May 1, 2019. 

4. Does the Library have an online language learning program?

Yes, we subscribe to Mango Languages.  A valid Library card is required to use this resource.  Email Library Support with any questions, comments or concerns.

Mango Languages
PhD-created and linguist-approved software teaches real conversations in over 70 languages and makes it fun. You will build language proficiency and cultural understanding around real-world communication skills that you'll actually need. Learn through examples like 'What time are they arriving?' instead of much less useful phrases like 'The dog is under the table.'  With Mango, you'll learn vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, and culture all in one integrated experience.

• Mobile - Mango goes wherever you go with full apps for iOS and Android mobile devices. Over 70 language courses available in the palm of your hand.
• Online - Mango can be used online from any computer, anywhere, at any time. No CDs, DVDs, downloads, or installations. Used in conjunction with the mobile app, Mango is one of the most accessible language and culture learning platforms on earth.

5. I am having trouble using the Online Resources. Whom do I contact?

Please email Library Support and describe the problem in as much detail as possible. The Electronic Resources Librarian will be in touch with you shortly.

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OverDrive Downloadable Books

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1. What is OverDrive?

OverDrive is a collection of downloadable audiobooks and eBooks for Garland Library cardholders. You can listen to MP3 audiobooks, read eBook, PDF, Kindle and/or graphic novels. Audiobooks and eBooks can be used on a PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone. Apps are available for iPhone, Android and Windows Mobile.

2. How do I download digital books from the catalog?

The library catalog now contains downloadable materials from OverDrive, Project Gutenberg and Open Library. These downloadable items can be requested or checked out and downloaded without leaving the library catalog. You can manage your requests and downloads from My Account in the portal as well.

How to Download

There are several ways to download digital titles. When you find an eBook or eAudiobook in the catalog that you would like to read, click on "Download." You will be prompted to enter your library card and PIN. Next, choose the format you would like (Adobe Digital Editions, HTML or Kindle for eBooks) and click "check out."

If you are in the library or on a computer or device you cannot download to, then the download will not proceed after you check out. When you get to your computer you can download from, go to the library portal and click on My Account. Enter your library card and PIN. Your downloadable titles will be in "Digital Checkouts." Click on that tab and you will see a "Download" link with each title you can use to access the eBook or eAudiobook.

OverDrive

Can you still use OverDrive to access digital books? Yes, you may. In fact, what you do in the portal is reflected in your OverDrive account. The only thing you cannot do in the portal is set a book to automatically checkout when you place a hold. But, once the hold is placed in the portal, you can go to OverDrive and edit the hold to checkout to you when it’s available.

3. Is there an app?

Yes, in fact there are two apps: Libby and the OverDrive app.

Libby

This is OverDrive's newest app. It is simple and easiest to use for beginners. It is also good for people who have library cards from multiple libraries. Libby can be used on Apple, Android and Windows devices and, unlike the OverDrive app, it can be opened in a browser. Libby cannot be loaded on Kindle Fire but you can use Libby to send books to your Kindle

• Get started with the Libby app
• Libby app help

OverDrive App

this is the original app that we have had for several years. It is good for people who like to make lists. This app is available for most devices.

• Getting started with the OverDrive app
• OverDrive App help

4. Are there instructions?

Yes, please visit the OverDrive section of our website. OverDrive also has lots of instructions and help on their page. If you need help with loading OverDrive on your device email lib-support@garlandtx.gov or call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501. If you want one-on-one assistance, email Library Support and make an appointment to meet with a librarian.

5. Are there help pages?

Yes, OverDrive has extensive help articles. If your problem is not listed then email Library Support or call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501.

If you want one-on-one assistance, email Library Support and make an appointment to meet with a librarian.

6. Is OverDrive up and working?

If you are having problems that you cannot figure out how to resolve, check the OverDrive status page. The problem may be on OverDrive's end and not with the title or your device. If all is well, email your issue to Library Support or call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501.

7. What does "Privilege has expired" mean?

You try to sign in to your account but get this message:

Sign in Error
We're sorry, but the specified library patron account information is not valid.
Details: (1) Privilege has expired

That message means your card has expired. What you need to do is bring your library card and a photo ID to any Garland Library to get your account renewed for another 4 years. Go to Contact Us to see what’s closest and/or most convenient.

8. Why are the downloadable books not always available?

Simply put, that is not the business model OverDrive (and many of the book publishers) employ. Libraries purchase downloadable titles much the same as we do print titles - one person can read a book at a time. If, and when, a hold list builds, we buy more copies. Some titles we lease based on the number of checkouts the title can have. If it appears that titles come and go this is likely why.

9. Can I request the library buy certain downloadable titles?

Yes, and you have a few options for suggesting titles:

• Look up the titles you want on our OverDrive site or in the OverDrive app.  Titles that we do not own that are available for us to purchase in OverDrive will have a recommend option.  Select this to recommend we purchase the title.  Patrons can recommend three titles per month. Any of your recommendations we purchase will be put on hold for you.
• Visit OverDrive's website and look up the title there.  You will be able to see if the title or author you want to read is even available as a downloadable book and in the format you want to read it in. You will be able to see if it is available in Garland Libraries, and if it is available in nearby libraries.  Email us the titles you would like us to purchase.
• Email your titles requests Library Support and they will be sent to the Collection Development Team to research and possibly purchase.

10. Why does the library not have this book? Or only has the eBook format?

Book publishers make deals with many different digital book vendors. Sometimes that can mean a title is only available for us to purchase in specific formats. For example, OverDrive may only be able to provide the eBook for public libraries to purchase if another vendor holds the exclusive rights to the eAudiobook format.

11. Who do I contact if I am having problems with OverDrive?

Email your issue to Library Support or call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501. If you are having problems with Libby, use the support link within the app or on the Libby Support page.

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Public Computers & Equipment

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1. Does the Library have computers I can use?

Garland Libraries offer computers to access the Internet, to search Online Databases, to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint), and to access educational software for children. A valid Library card is required to use these computers. We also offer laptops patrons can borrow to use inside the library.

2. Can I use my USB memory drive at the Library?

Yes, provided the library has the software installed to open the file(s) saved on your USB drive. Each Library has the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher), Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on each Internet PC. You will not be able to access locked or hidden portions of your drive on library computers unless you can do so without installing any software or programs that make it possible to enter the password. If you have any questions call the Information Desk at 972-205-2533 or send an email to Library Support.

3. Can I use my CDs or DVDs at the Library?

Yes, provided the library has the software installed to open the file(s) saved on your storage device. Each Library has the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher), Internet Explorer, and Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on each Internet computer. The computers do not have disc drives so please ask at the desk for a portable drive to use in the library. If you have any questions call the Information Desk at 972-205-2533 or send an email to Library Support.

4. Can I use my floppy disks at the Library?

No, our computers no longer provide that type of storage access. If you have any questions call the Information Desk at 972-205-2533 or send an email to Library Support.

5. Do you have wireless access at the Library?

Yes, all Garland Libraries offer wireless access to library cardholders. Email Library Support or call 972-205-2533 for more information.

6. Does the library have laptops?

Yes, patrons can check out a laptop for use inside the South Garland Branch Library. Anyone wanting to use a laptop must be over 18 years of age, have a valid library card in good standing for more than 30 days and a valid Texas photo ID to leave at the Circulation Desk while the laptop is being borrowed. Laptops can be used for 2 hours per day and cannot leave the library.

7. Does the Library have a fax machine?

Yes, the South Garland Branch Library has a fax machine. It costs $1.75 to send the first page and $1 for each additional page. The payment method is credit or debit card only. Users can send faxes but cannot receive them using these fax machines. FAX24 offers this service within the Garland libraries.

8. Does the Library have a scanner?

Yes, all Garland Libraries have a scanning station. Users can scan documents to USB, to email, or to Google Drive for free.

9. Does the Library have a color printer or photocopier?

Yes, Garland Libraries do have color printers. The cost is $0.50 per page. We do not have color photocopiers but users at the Central Library and South Garland Branch can use the scanner to print in color.

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Study & Meeting Rooms

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1. Does the Library have meeting rooms the public can use?

Yes, each location has a meeting room that Garland organizations can book. Have the organization's president call 972-205-2543 for more information. Group study rooms for 2 to 4 people at the Central, North and South Garland Branches can be used by anyone and are first come, first served. The South Garland Branch also has study rooms that can accommodate up to 8 people.

2. Does the Library have study rooms the public can use?

Yes, the Central, North and South Garland branches have group study rooms for 2 to 4 people. The South Garland Branch also has study rooms that can accommodate up to 8 people. These rooms are for use by all library patrons with valid cards and are first come, first served. When in demand, the group study rooms do have a two-hour time limit. Additionally, the Central Library has four individual study rooms. They are first come, first serve, for one person only, and have no time limit.

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Library Board

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1. What does the Library Board do?

The purpose of the Library Board is to advise the City Council on issues relating to the Public Library and to recommend plans and programs to promote the library system for the city. The Board meets monthly on the second Monday at 6 p.m. in the Work Session Chambers at City Hall. All meetings are open to the public unless the Board goes into executive session. For more information visit the Library Board page or call the Library Administration office at 972-205-2543.

2. Where do I find the Library Board agendas and minutes?

Meeting agendas and approved minutes are posted on the website for citizen review.

3. How do you become a Library Board member?

The Library Board is composed of nine citizens that are appointed by the City Council. The Director of Libraries serves as ex officio member of the Board. The normal term of office is two years; four members shall complete their full term of office in odd numbered years and five members shall complete their full term of office in even numbered years.

Qualifications

The Garland Charter and Code of Ordinances establish certain qualifications that must be met by members of boards and commissions. In addition to special qualifications for service, a board member must:

• Have been a resident of the state of Texas for one year and of Garland for six months prior to the date of appointment.
• Be a qualified voter at time of appointment.
• Not be in arrears on City taxes, utility service charges, or other obligations owed the City.
• Have not been convicted of a felony.
• Have not been convicted of a Class A misdemeanor.
• Not be an adversary party to pending litigation against the City.

For more information, please visit the City's Boards and Commissions page.

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Friends of the Library

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1. What do the Friends of the Library do?

The Friends of the Nicholson Memorial Library is community organization supporting and promoting Garland libraries. The Friends sponsors activities to raise funds for the purchase of library materials and equipment, and underwrites programming to benefit all library users.

2. How do I join the Friends of the Library?

Stop by any Garland Library and fill out an application form. You may also print one online.

• Student: $5
• Individual: $8
• Senior: $5
• Family: $15
• Supporting: $25
• Business/Organization: $50

This is an annual cost and you will get a special "Friends" library card. Also, you may indicate on your form if you want to help volunteer or possibly serve on the Friends of the Library board.

3. What is AmazonSmile?

AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support the Friends of the Nicholson Memorial Library every time you shop, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection and convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price to the Friends of the Nicholson Memorial Library. You can choose from nearly one million organizations to support though we ask that you choose the Friends of the Nicholson Memorial Library and help support your Garland Libraries.

4. How do I shop at AmazonSmile?

To shop at AmazonSmile simply go to smile.amazon.com from the web browser on your computer or mobile device. You may also want to add a bookmark to smile.amazon.com to make it even easier to return and start your shopping at AmazonSmile.

5. How do I select a charitable organization to support when shopping on AmazonSmile?

On your first visit to AmazonSmile, you need to select Friends Of The Nicholson Memorial Library Inc so they receive donations from eligible purchases before you begin shopping. Amazon will remember your selection, and then every eligible purchase you make at smile.amazon.com will result in a donation.

6. How much of my purchase does Amazon donate?

The AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the purchase price from your eligible AmazonSmile purchases. The purchase price is the amount paid for the item minus any rebates and excluding shipping and handling, gift-wrapping fees, taxes, or service charges. From time to time, Amazon may offer special, limited time promotions that increase the donation amount on one or more products or services or provide for additional donations to charitable organizations. Special terms and restrictions may apply. Please see the relevant promotion for complete details.

7. Can I receive a tax deduction for amounts donated from my purchases on AmazonSmile?

Donations are made by the AmazonSmile Foundation and are not tax deductible by you.

8. How can I learn more about AmazonSmile?

Please see complete AmazonSmile program details.

9. Can I donate old books and magazines to the library?

Yes, newer items and items in good condition will be considered for the library collection. If not added by the library, items are passed along to the Friends of the library for their annual book sale. Items the Friends will take include:

• Books for all ages
• Books in foreign languages
• Books of all kinds: fiction and non-fiction
• Books on all subjects
• CDs
• DVDs
• Puzzles and games

Donated items may be dropped off at any Garland library location. If you need assistance carrying in your donations, please ask for help at the Check- out Desk. Any books not used by the library or the Friends will go to a special recycler and all funds earned from recycling go to the Friends of the Library to be used for the benefit of the Garland Libraries.

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Library Miscellaneous

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1. How can I get a job at the library?

Library staff are City of Garland employees. Go to the "Career Opportunities" page at the City of Garland and search for Library to see all the openings we may have.

2. How do I make a memorial donation?

Anyone wishing to donate to the Garland Public Library in remembrance of a friend or family member may do so by sending a check or money order to:
Nicholson Memorial Library System
ATTN: Administration Office
625 Austin Street
Garland, TX 75040

Please include your name and contact information in your correspondence so we can work with you to get materials based on the likes and interests of your friend or family member, the needs of the community and the needs of the library. We appreciate you thinking of the Garland Libraries. If you need more information please call Library Administration 972-205-2543.

3. Has the Library's website address changed?

Yes, we have retired our original website address (www.nmls.lib.tx.us).  

Please use www.library.garlandtx.gov and update your bookmarks and/or saved links.

4. Who do I contact if I have trouble using the website?

Please CONTACT US with any questions or concerns you may have.