Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Got questions? We’ve got answers!

We’ve listed the most common questions about library services and resources on this page. Select a question to see its answer.

If you can’t find your question in this list of FAQs, please contact us, or use the site search box at the top of this page.

How can I renew my items?

Library Catalog (V-Cat) Renewals Regular library items may renewed online*, in person, via live chat, via text** or via phone***: Be prepared to provide your 14-digit library card number and PIN. If...

What is my library card number (or patron ID)?

Your library card number (also called your patron ID or account number) is the 14-digit number found on your library card, near the barcode.  Cards issued by Marathon County Public Library (MCPL) or...

How can I get a library card?

Marathon County Public Library cards are available free to all residents of Wisconsin.  Wisconsin residents may register for a library card online or apply at any MCPL location. Visitors from out of...

What is my PIN or password?

Your PIN (aka "password") that accompanies your library card number (aka "patron ID") usually is the last four digits of the phone number we have on file for you — unless you specifically requested...

Where can I use my library card?

Your MCPL library account provides access to the collections of the following public libraries in the Wisconsin Valley Library Service. Additionally, you may use your library card to access e-books...

What are “Lucky Day” items?

Items labeled with the phrase "Lucky Day" in the Library Catalog (V-Cat) are high demand items that cannot be put on hold and are only made available for immediate checkout at MCPL locations. What...

Can I check out if I have fines or overdue items?

You may continue to check out items until:  you accumulate more than $5 in fines, or  you have more than 25 items overdue.  If your account has been sent to collections due to excessive fines, you...

May I return my items to any public library?

Where a library item can be returned depends on how it was borrowed and which library owns it: Items owned by the Marathon County Public Library (MCPL) or any public library that is a member of...

What happens if I don’t return an item?

A "first notice" is sent when books are seven days overdue, or when interlibrary loans or DVDs are two days overdue. A "final notice" is sent 14 days later. The item is declared "lost" 35 days after...

Do I need a library card for each MCPL location?

No. You only should have one library card for our library system, whether it's an MCPL card or a "V-Cat" card from another public library in the Wisconsin Valley Library Service. You may use your...

Can I get a library card for my child?

Yes! You can decide when your child is old enough to have their own card (even as a newborn baby), but please be aware: As parent/guardian, you are responsible for all items borrowed — including any...

How will I know when my materials are due?

When you check out library items, you have the option to receive a receipt that shows the dates the items are due. If you don't have your checkout receipt, you may use any of the following options:...

Can I have library items delivered to my home?

Our Homebound program is the only home delivery option available for MCPL patrons at this time. For Marathon County residents unable to visit the library due to age, illness, accident or disability,...

What should I do if I lose my library card?

Please contact us immediately and report your card as lost! You are responsible for anything checked out using your card, even if that person isn't you. Telling us to set your card to "lost" will...

How can I pay my library fines?

Library fines are charged for items that became overdue, lost or damaged while checked out on your library account. Options to pay these fines include: Pay online using your credit card:  Log in to...

Can I close my library account?

Yes, we will close your library account upon request, provided there are no outstanding fines or items currently checked out on the account. Please note: Only the person named on the account may...

Can I change where I pick up requested items?

Yes, you can change where you pick up library items. Contact us for assistance, or use the options listed below. For Library Catalog (V-Cat) items: To change your "preferred pickup location" for...

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Marathon County Public Library

Marathon County Public Library (MCPL)