Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a library card? You can apply online by clicking here or by filling out an application in the library.  You will need a picture ID and proof of your physical address. 

What if I live outside of the Nampa city limits? Non-residents (persons who do not live within the city and do not pay city taxes) are required to pay an annual fee per family per year.  The annual nonresident fee is $52.00, the four-month card is $18.00, and the annual senior citizen rate (age 60 and over) is $33.00

May I get my child a library card? Yes, as long as the parent or legal guardian has a current NPL library card. There is no minimum age restriction.

What can I do if the item I want is checked out? If the item is owned by Nampa or one of the Treasure Valley libraries, you may place a hold on the item yourself by clicking on "Place Hold on First Available Copy" button. You will be prompted for your library card number and your PIN number. If the item is owned by Twin Falls, Mountain Home, Emmett or Hailey you will need to request the item through interlibrary loan by calling the Information desk at 468.5803. If you have any questions or need help placing a hold call 468.5803.

How can I check the due dates on my items and/or renew them? You can access your account online or you can call our Account Information number at 384.4450.  Both options require your library card and PIN.  You can also ask at the front desk which requires your library card or photo ID. If you would like more information on how to use the catalog, please contact the Information Desk at 468.5803.

How will I know when my holds are ready to be picked up? You can access your account online or you can call our Account Information number at 384.4450.  Both options require your library card and PIN.  You can also ask at the front desk which requires your library card or photo ID. If you would like more information on how to use the catalog, please contact the Information Desk at 468.5803.

How long can I check out items? Most items check out for three weeks.  New books and Hot Titles check out for two weeks and movies check out for one week.

What is my PIN? Your PIN is generally the last four digits of your home or cell phone unless you have requested otherwise.

What do I do if I lose my library card? Report it to the library immediately. Call 468.5800 or speak with an associate at the Checkout Desk.

May I return my items to a different library? Yes.  You may return items to any of the Treasure Valley libraries in the LYNX! Consortium. These include Ada, Boise, Meridian and their branches, Caldwell, Eagle, and Garden City.  Note that each library’s policies may differ, and customers borrowing another library’s materials must follow the lending library’s policies.

Do you accept credit cards for payment of fines and fees? Yes.  We accept Mastercard, Visa, and Discover.

How do I contact the library? For checkout issues and/or questions about your account, please call 468.5800.

For information inquiries, please call 468.5803 or email the Information Desk at info@nampalibrary.org.
To submit general comments and suggestions, email us at feedback@nampalibrary.org or use our online suggestion form available here.

Does the library provide public computers? Yes.  Internet/PC workstations are open to all on a first-come, first-served basis, and customers may use a machine for one hour per day. Printing is also available for $0.10 per page.

All workstations require an access card, which can be obtained from the Information Desk or the Checkout Desk. You will need a photo ID or a library card from one of the Lynx! Consortium libraries to get an access card. Customers choose their access level to the Internet. Parents or guardians may opt to allow minors to use the unfiltered Internet, understanding that library staff does not monitor what material customers decide to view. The library Internet Policy applies to everyone using computers in the library.

What is my computer access password, for using the public computers? Your computer access password is your PIN. Your PIN it is generally the last four numbers of your phone number, enter as follows: 5887. If you need assistance please ask at the Information Desk.

Does the library have Wireless Internet Access available? Yes. Free wireless Internet access is provided to the public at the library. Users may connect to the Internet with a wireless laptop, PDA or other portable device from within the Library. The wireless connection is provided as-is. Library staff cannot offer technical support for establishing or maintaining a connection and the Library is not responsible for hardware or software damage, or for loss or theft of unattended equipment. The wireless connection is not secure. Printing from the wireless network is not available. The wireless Internet access is unfiltered, but all Library policies concerning legal and acceptable use of computers and the Internet apply.

Where is the copy machine located? The copy machine is located on the first floor near the juvenile magazines. The cost is $0.10 per page.

Does the library carry tax forms?  No.  The library does not carry forms, but they can be found at: http://www.irs.ustreas.gov/formspubs/index.html and http://tax.idaho.gov/forms.htm.

Does the library carry old newspapers? Yes. The Nampa Public Library keeps the most recent eight (8) copies of all subscription newspapers in the Reading room and three (3) month’s worth in the vault (ask for these at the Information Desk).  In addition, we have the Idaho Press Tribune on microfilm all the way back to 1907. Please note that the library microfilm reader does not have printing capability. Some customers have used a digital camera to capture images.

Does the library provide test proctoring? No. Northwest Nazarene University offers test proctoring at a fee of $50.00 per test for non-NNU students; contact Robin Ryan at 467.8463. Also available at the BSU Canyon County Center on Caldwell Blvd; contact Kelly Walker at 562.2015. The fee is $25.00 for non-BSU students.

May I donate items to the library? Yes. The Friends of the Nampa Public Library accept donations of books, movies and music in good condition which will be sold at the annual book sale. Magazines and textbooks are NOT accepted. Donations can be dropped off at the donation bin near the restrooms or at the Checkout Desk, and staff will be happy to provide you with a receipt. If you have donations you would like considered for addition to the library collection, please see the Library Director, Assistant Director, or Public Services Supervisor.

Are there any volunteer opportunities at the library? Yes!  The library welcomes individuals and groups who wish to donate their valuable time. Click here or contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 468.5824 for more details.

Where can I park? Parking is unfortunately limited, and customers should be aware that the library parking lot and most of the adjacent parking is posted with a 2-hour limit. Click here for a parking map and options for parking without time limits. Please be aware that local businesses also have limited parking for their customer’s also.

 

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