Frequently Asked Questions
Why is parking so tight in front of the library?
There are 150 parking spaces in the library’s lot on the east side of the building. There are 6 handicapped spaces, a doorway (we have 2 main entrances), and no stairs. The parking in front of the building is the Village’s on-street parking; it is not the library’s.
How many books does the library own?
We have about 144,000 books for you to borrow, as well as over 4,000 DVDs and videos, and almost 5,000 audio recordings (books and music).
How is the library governed?
There is a seven-member Board of Trustees that is elected directly by the public. The Library District is an independent unit of government and is not part of the Village or Township.
How many people use the library?
Over 21,000 residents have cards (out of a total population of over 35,000) and about 700 people visit the library every day.
How do I get a library card?
Just come into the library with proof of residency in the district. Good examples are driver’s license, voter’s registration card, or your property tax bill. Cards are free to district residents. Residents under the age of 18 need to have a parent or guardian accompany them, sign their application, and provide proof of residency. A parent or legal guardian will also be able to set the level of Internet access that a minor may have.
I have a New Lenox address and my children go to New Lenox schools, so why can’t I get a library card?
This is a complicated issue. The short answer is that the City of Joliet has annexed territory that is part of New Lenox Township and was originally in our library district. Because Joliet has a city library, that is your home library. You and your neighbors can get cards at the Joliet Public Library, 150 N. Ottawa St. You may use your Joliet card at New Lenox as well as at almost every public library in Illinois.
Do you have computers for the public to use?
Yes, we have 31 workstations; all you need is your library card. We also have guest passes for those who do not live in the district. There is no charge for computer use time, but there is a charge for printing.
Can I register to vote at the library?
Yes, staff members are voter registrars.
Can I get tax forms at the library?
Yes, we have a limited supply of paper forms during tax season, but all forms can be downloaded from the IRS’s website.
Does the library have a fax machine for public use?
Yes, the staff will be happy to fax documents for you. The charge is $3 for the first page and $1 per page after; there is no charge for the cover sheet. You may also have faxes sent to the library. This will entail the same cost as sending a fax. Please ask the person sending the fax to address it clearly for you and include your phone number (home, office, or cell) so we can let you know that it has arrived.
How is the library supported?
A portion of your property taxes, about 3.2%, goes to the library. This works out to about $34 per person. Property taxes make up about 90% of the library’s funding. The rest comes mostly from grants, late fees, donations, and developer fees.
