FAQ

Membership

How do I get a library card?

Bring a photo ID and proof of your address in Bogota. A photo ID can be a license, passport, student ID or state/military ID card.

If your current driver’s license has your Bogota address on it, then that ID satisfies both requirements. If your license has an old address, you can prove residency in Bogota with a recent bank statement, a recent utility bill, or a lease agreement.

How long is my library card good for?

All standard library cards are issued for 3 years. To renew your card, please visit the library with your card and proof of continued residency in Bogota.

How old can a child be to get a library card?

We do not have an age restriction on library cards. Parents/guardians are responsible for their children’s library cards and must accompany a child upon application and renewal.

How many library cards can there be in one household?

As many cards as there are people! Keep in mind, however, that these are individual cards and not family cards. You will need to keep track of who has what checked out, and the more cards there are in a household the more difficult this tends to be.

What is BCCLS?

BCCLS is the Bergen County Cooperative Library System. It consists of 77 libraries in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Passaic counties that share resources, including collections. A library card from any BCCLS libraries will be honored at every other BCCLS library.

I’m moving from another BCCLS town where I had a library card. What do I need to do switch over to Bogota?

You’ll need to clear any fines and return all items before switching libraries. Once you do that, bring your old library card, photo ID and proof of Bogota address, and we’ll switch your membership to Bogota.

Can I get a library card if I don’t live in Bogota?

If you work in Bogota, you can get a card that is valid for one year. You must show us a recent pay stub (dated within the past 30 days) from a Bogota business.

If you work in Bogota, but live in a town served by a BCCLS library, you cannot get a card from Bogota and must get your card from your hometown.

Borrowing

How many items can I check out?

You can check out 50 items per library card. DVDs are limited to 5 per card, and only 2 of those may be high demand titles

How long can I keep borrowed materials?

To view our loan periods, click here. Remember, other consortium libraries may have different rules for their items.

How much do you charge in fines?

Bogota no longer charges late fines for any of its items. Remember, other consortium libraries may still charge late fines for their items.

How do I renew or extend items borrowed?

If you have not exceeded the renewal limit on an item, it will automatically renew unless another patron is waiting for it. For questions about your items and renewal availability, call 201-488-7185 or check online here. You will need to have your library card handy.

Can I see what’s on my account?

Click here to see what’s on your account, to renew items, to search the catalog and to request items.

Can I use my library card at other libraries?

Your card will work at all 77 BCCLS libraries. Click here for a full list of where you can go.

How do I request materials?

You can request materials in person, by phone at 201-488-7185, by email or online. You will need to have your library card handy.

How many item requests can I make?

You can place requests for 20 items at once, per library card.

I requested something from another library. How long will it take to be delivered?

Currently available items take about 3-4 business days to arrive from the moment you place the hold.

I got a notice that the item I requested is waiting for me in the library. How long do I have to come pick it up?

We hold things for 5 days from the day you receive the notice. To get notified the second we scan your item, we recommend you get your notifications by text message. To change your method of notifications, log into your account here.

Passports

Please read our dedicated passport page carefully.

Do I need an appointment to apply for a passport?

Passport services are by appointment only. Click to schedule.

What do I need to to get a passport?

You must bring a valid photo ID, original proof of citizenship (birth certificate, previous passport or certificate of natralization), passport photo, and the DS-11 application.

Does the library provide passport photos?

Yes, the library prints passport photos for a $10 fee. 

How do I apply for a passport for a child?

If you have a child under 16 who needs a new passport, ALL parents listed on the birth certificate must accompany the child to the passport facility (the library). Even if it’s a passport renewal, you must provide the original birth certificate.

While minors aged 16-17 may apply by themselves, we recommend that a parent be present. To apply by themselves, they must bring a valid photo ID (not a learner’s permit) issued at least 6 months ago, all the necessary documents, and proof of parental consent (e.g. a personal check made out by the parent).

How do I renew an adult passport?

You must renew by mail using Form DS-82 if your most recent passport:

• Is submitted with your application
• Is undamaged (other than normal “wear and tear”)
• Was issued when you were age 16 or older
• Was issued within the last 15 years
• Was issued in your current name (or you can document your name change with an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)

If any of the above statements do not apply to you, you must apply in person.

How much does a passport cost?

For adults 16 and up: $130 Routine service OR $190 Expedited service, AND $35 Acceptance fee.

For children under 16: $100 Routine service OR $160 Expedited service, AND $35 Acceptance fee.

Pictures cost $10.

Programs & Classes

How do I sign up for a program?

Go to the calendar here. Be sure to leave your email address when you register so we can contact you if there’s a cancellation.

How can I get notices about upcoming programs and classes?

The best way is to sign up for our email newsletter. You can do that here.

Do programs and classes cost money to attend?

There are no fees to attend programs and classes.

Can I get help with technology?

Yes! We can help with bite-sized technical problems with your laptop, smartphone, tablet, etc. Make an appointment and watch as we make your problems disappear.

Important: we do NOT assist with printers, hardware upgrades or problems, or anything to do with virus protection and security. This is for practical and liability reasons.

How do I make an appointment for tech help?

Please call 201-488-7185 or book a librarian.

What is Makers Lab and when does it meet?

Makers Lab is a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) program in which kids can explore and create in a safe, hands-on environment. Maker Lab meets twice a month on Tuesdays at 4pm. You can sign up for any Maker Lab session here.

Computers & Wifi

Please see our internet policy here.

Is there free wifi in the library?

Yes! You’re welcome to hop onto our free network anytime. Look for “Bogota Public Library.”

Are there computers available in the library?

Yes. We have public computers available on a first come, first serve basis. You don’t need a library card to access them.

Is there a time limit on how long I can use a computer?

If there are more computers than demand, you can be on as long as you like. When demand exceeds available computers, your session will end after 30 minutes.

Digital Library

How do I get library eBooks, eAudiobooks, digital magazines, movies, tv shows and music?

Get started from the Digital Library page. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to get started right away, go to your mobile device’s app store and download the following free apps:

• Overdrive/Libby (eBooks, eAudiobooks, digital magazines)
• Hoopla (eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies, TV and music)

How many items can I check out at once?

Overdrive/Libby: 5 titles at once; unlimited magazines

Hoopla: 5 titles per month

Are there fines on digital content for late returns?

No! Digital Library titles get returned automatically so there’s never any fines!

How do I return ebooks and eAudiobooks?

All digital content comes off your account at the end of the checkout period. You can return them early from inside the appropriate app, though, if you choose.

What if I want to renew my ebooks and eAudiobooks?

Hoopla items cannot be renewed, but you can check an item out more than once. Libby/Overdrive titles can be renewed if there is not a wait list to borrow the item.

Online Databases

What exactly are databases?

Databases are where you’ll find content that you can’t get to on search engines like Google. That’s because Google’s crawlers can’t get past paywalls and into walled gardens. In other words, content is premium because it can’t be easily found.

That’s where the library comes in. Through the New Jersey State Library, we’re able to bring you access to millions of high quality, peer-reviewed, scholarly articles that are perfect for researching school essays and work assignments.

How do I cite articles I find in a database?

The neat thing about most of the articles you’ll find is that the option to cite them will be baked in right on the page. Look for the link called “Cite” on the article page, and you’ll have the option to copy correct citations for your preferred format (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.).

How do I access a database?

Browse our Database page. When you find a database that interests you, click on it and enter your 14-digit library card number. Any valid NJ library card will work so get crackin’!

Other Questions

Do you accept material donations?

The library is not currently accepting material donations. Donations left outside the library or in the building’s vestibule will be thrown out without consideration.

How do I make a suggestion?

If you have suggestions for items, send us a note. If you have other recommendations for programs or other services, please contact us.