FAQ

How many libraries are there in the Hillsboro system?

There are two facilities which make up the Hillsboro Public Library system:

1. Hillsboro Main Library
2. Shute Park Branch

Which libraries may I use my card at in Washington County?

There are 14 public libraries and two special libraries where you may use your library card.

• Banks Public Library
• Beaverton City Library
• Cedar Mill Community Library
• Cedar Mill's Bethany Branch
• Cornelius Public Library
• Forest Grove City Library
• Garden Home Community Library
• Hillsboro Main Library
• Hillsboro - Shute Park Branch
• North Plains Library
• Sherwood Public Library
• Tigard Public Library
• Tualatin Public Library
• West Slope Community Library
• Oregon College of Art and Craft 
• Tuality Health Resource Center

 View a directory and online maps to the libraries in WCCLS (Washington County Cooperative Library Services).

How do I get a library card?

Who can get a library card in Washington County?

Library cards are free to individuals who are residents of Clackamas, Clark, Hood River, Klickitat, Multnomah, or Skamania counties. This is possible because of a reciprocal borrowing agreement Washington County libraries have with these counties, known as the MIX agreement.

For residents of all other counties, the cost for a library card is $70.00 per year per household. (This is the average cost paid in taxes by a Washington County household for library service.)

Do you accept donations?

Yes! The Friends of the Hillsboro Public Library accept donations of books, movies, etc., but they are not able to accept magazine donations. 

It is preferable that donations be dropped off at the Main Library. If necessary, items may be dropped off at the Shute Park Branch. 

Most donations are not added to the library collection. They are sold by the Friends to raise funds for library programs, projects and materials.

What do I need to know about checking out materials?

Most library materials, including books, magazines, audiobooks, kits, CDs, CD ROMs, nonfiction videos, DVDs and Blu-Rays check out for a period of three weeks. Entertainment DVDs and Blu-Rays check out for only one week and have a higher overdue fine rate than all other materials.
All items in the library may be checked out except for the newest issue of magazines and reference books. The reference books are shelved separately are labeled "Reference." Occasionally, an additional copy of a reference title may not shelved in the "Reference" area and may be available to be checked out. Information from reference books may be copied using the library's coin operated copy machines.

If I can't find what I'm looking for in the library catalog, what can I do?

Ask a reference librarian to help you. Reference librarians are available at the adult and youth reference desks. They are trained to assist customers in locating information.
If the item you need is not in any Washington County Library, a librarian can help you place an InterLibrary loan (ILL) request. During the InterLibrary Loan process, library collections in Oregon and nationally will be searched to locate one that owns and is willing to loan the item. Shipping or other charges may apply, but most often this service is free. Request forms are available online and at the information/reference desks.

What programs are you having for children and adults?

See the Kids' Programs section for complete information.  We offer lapsit for babies, toddler times, preschool story times and family story times.

How do I access my personal record? (items checked out, holds, fines)?

Library card holders have access to their records via the WCCLS countywide library Web site at http://www.wccls.org:

• Click on the button at the top of the page labeled "Patron Account"
• Enter your complete 14-digit library card barcode number and your password. (If you have forgotten your password, contact our Circulation Department at 503-615-6500 to have it re-set.) 
• A screen will display several buttons to choose from.
• The Requests button shows items you have placed a hold on.
• The Items Out button displays items checked out on your card and when they are due.
• The Fines & Fees button lists any money owed on the card.

How do I renew items I have checked out?

Items may be renewed (checked out again) up to two times if they are not on hold for another library customer. There are several ways to renew items you have checked out.

1. Renew via the online library catalog.  Under the category Library Services, select the menu item "Online Renewals."
2. Call your local library and ask to renew your items over the telephone.
3. Bring the items to the check out desk at the library.

How do I request that the Hillsboro library buy something to add to the collection?

You may submit a request for the library to purchase the item you're interested in if you feel it would be a good addition to the library's collection. Request forms are available online and at the information/reference desks.