Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For the latest updates on the library's COVID-19 response, please see the library's COVID-19 FAQ.

Have a question that doesn't appear here? Please contact us by phone (630-924-2730), email (bdref@mybpl.org), chat/text (click the Contact Us button), or in person.

Library Hours & Location

Library Card

Library Items - Books, Movies, Music, eBooks, Museum Passes, and More

Library Computers & Tech

Library Services

Miscellaneous Questions


Library Hours & Location

When is the library open?

Library hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sunday (Mid Sept. - Mid May) 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Check our online calendar for holiday or special event closures.


Where is the library located?

The library is located on the corner of Fairfield Way and Bloomingdale Road at 101 Fairfield Way, next to the Village of Bloomingdale building and the Police Department. Directions


Library Card

How do I get a library card?

To apply for a library card, you must provide a valid photo ID with your current Bloomingdale address and one item showing proof of residency (or two residency items if your photo ID does not have your current Bloomingdale address). Acceptable proof of residency include, but are not limited to bank statement, real estate tax bill, lease, or utility bill. Items must be dated within the past 30 days. For children's library cards (age 17 and under), a parent or guardian must be present to apply. More information can be found on the Library Card page.


I don't live in Bloomingdale/I'm not a Bloomingdale resident. Can I use my city's library card at Bloomingdale Public Library?

Yes, as long as your card isn't expired and is in good standing (no excessive fines, lost/damaged items, etc.) To use your library card here, you'll need to register your card at the Circulation Desk. Staff will set you up as a reciprocal borrower.

Reciprocal borrowers have some restrictions on library materials and services:

  • Non-residents cannot check out the library's downloadable/streaming material including eBooks, eAudiobooks, digital magazines, and downloadable movies/TV shows.
  • Non-residents cannot use our interlibrary loan service.
  • Non-residents cannot use our online databases from home.
  • Non-residents cannot use use our Makerspace.


    • Where can I use my library card?

    Your library card may be used at most public libraries in the state of Illinois if the card hasn't expired and is in good standing (no excessive fines, lost/damaged items, etc.).


    What is my PIN (Personal Identification Number)?

    When a resident, non-resident, or non-resident taxpayer registers at the library, they may select a personal identification number (PIN). If a PIN is not selected when first registering, the default PIN is the last 4 digits of your phone number.

    Your PIN and library card number allow you to access your library account online to renew items, check the due date of items, place a hold on an item, or use online databases (Bloomingdale Public Library cardholders only). Reciprocal borrowers may select a PIN and access their account online, but they may not place holds on certain items (new video games, eBooks/downloadable audiobooks, etc.) or use the online databases from home.

    If you want to change your PIN, click the My Account link in the library catalog. Log in to your account using your library card number and PIN (last 4 digits of your phone number). Click the Change PIN option. Enter the last 4 digits of your phone number in the Current PIN box and your chosen PIN in the New PIN and Confirm New PIN boxes. Your PIN must be between 4-10 numbers long and must not contain any spaces, letters, or special characters.

    If you've forgotten your PIN, please use the "email PIN information request form" provided in the online catalogy's My Account section or contact the Circulation Desk at 630-924-2750, and we will reset it for you.


    Library Items - Books, Movies, Music, eBooks, Museum Passes, and More

    How do I place an item on hold?

    To place an item on hold, please stop by the Reference Desk, call 630-924-2730, text or chat with us using the Contact Us button on the website, or email us at bdref1@mybpl.org

    You can also place holds online using the library catalog. Log in to My Account and then search for your item. Click on the item and then click the Place Hold link.


    How long can I check out books, videos, magazines, or other items?

    Loan periods for items checked out at Bloomingdale Public Library are available on the Loan Periods, Check-out Limits, and Fines chart. Loan periods for materials borrowed from other libraries vary depending on their loan policy.


    How many items can I check out at a time? Is there a limit for books, videos, magazines, or other items?

    Checkout limits are available on the Loan Periods, Check-out Limits, and Fines chart.


    When are my items due?

    Due dates are listed on the receipt given to you or emailed to you when you borrowed your materials. If you can't find your receipt, you can check due dates in the online catalog under My Account or you can contact the Circulation Desk at 630-924-2750.


    How do I renew an item?
    I need more time to finish a book, movie, CD, etc. Can I keep it longer?

    If there are no holds on your item, your items will auto renew three days before your due date. You can also renew most materials through the following options: in person at the library; phone the Circulation Department at 630-924-2750 during regular library hours; or online through the My Account page. To renew online, you will need your library card number and Personal Identification Number (PIN).

    Patrons with Blocked or Barred accounts will not have items renewed until the status is cleared. To clear Blocked or Barred statuses, please visit the Circulation Desk.

    Renewing materials owned by other libraries depends on the policy of the lending library. Interlibrary Loan materials that are overdue cannot be renewed. Please note: There may be restrictions on the item you wish to renew, so be sure to check a few days in advance so you can return it on time if it can't be renewed.


    I can't return an item on time. Is there any way to avoid paying overdue fines?

    Bloomingdale Public Library is fines free. We do not charge overdue fines.

    Overdue notices will be sent out on the following schedule:

    1st notice: after items are 7 days overdue
    2nd notice: after items are 14 days overdue
    3rd notice: after items are 21 days overdue
    4th notice: after items are 28 days overdue

    If items are not returned within 45 days of the their due date, the patron will receive a letter revoking their borrowing privileges and will be billed for all lost/overdue items.

    Borrowers with unpaid balances of $25 or more may be contacted by a collection agency on behalf of the library. In addition, a collection fee will be assessed and placed onto accounts that have reached this threshold.


    My item is late. What will I owe?

    Bloomingdale Public Library is fines free. We do not charge overdue fines

    Overdue notices will be sent out on the following schedule:

    1st notice: after items are 7 days overdue
    2nd notice: after items are 14 days overdue
    3rd notice: after items are 21 days overdue
    4th notice: after items are 28 days overdue

    If items are not returned within 45 days of the their due date, the patron will receive a letter revoking their borrowing privileges and will be billed for all lost/overdue items.

    Borrowers with unpaid balances of $25 or more may be contacted by a collection agency on behalf of the library. In addition, a collection fee will be assessed and placed onto accounts that have reached this threshold.


    I've damaged an item. What should I do?

    Accidents do happen! In the case of damaged materials, we ask that the borrower reimburse the library the cost of the item(s) plus a processing fee per item. Please contact the Circulation Desk at 630-924-2750 for assistance.


    I’ve lost an item. What should I do?

    First, if the item is due back at the library, try to renew it. This will give you more time to look for it. If you think you may have left it somewhere (at a restaurant, a hospital, or airport), try to contact the company. The item may be in their lost and found. Next, check with us at the library. You may have accidentally returned it, or a kind stranger may have returned it for you – a remarkable number of books are returned to the library by other library patrons who have found them on planes and mailed them back to us.

    While looking for the item, let the item go through all overdue notices before paying the replacement cost. While you can pay the bill anytime during this process, we recommend you wait as long as possible, since you only have 30 days from your payment to get refunded if you find it afterwards. After the fourth notice, the library will notify you, by letter, of the replacement cost. Visit or call the library at that time to arrange payment.

    We make every effort with multi-piece sets to replace only the missing piece, so you will not have to replace the whole set. Unfortunately, with some multi-piece sets, such as DVDs, we cannot replace single pieces and we will need to charge the replacement cost for the whole item.

    Finally, check under the seats of your car. Lost books like to lurk there!


    I just got home with my items, and I noticed that one of them is missing a piece. What should I do?
    I just got home with my items and I noticed that one of them is damaged. What should I do?

    While library staff try to ensure all items are in good condition before checking them out, we do occasionally miss minor damage or missing pieces. If you notice damage or missing pieces before you leave the library, please mention it to Circulation Desk staff before you leave. If you notice it when you return home, please contact the Circulation Desk at 630-924-2750.


    Where do I return my items?

    Indoors: During open hours, you can return your materials inside at the self-return window or Circulation Desk (recommended if you have fines or will be checking out more materials).

    Outdoors: You can return your items to our drive-up book and video drops in the parking lot. These are open 24 hours a day. Items that do not fit through the drop slots or items that must be returned in person should be returned inside the library during open hours.

    Other libraries: You can return your items at another public library in Illinois. Please be advised that it may take several days for the item to arrive at Bloomingdale Public Library, and items may continue to show as checked out on your account until they arrive here.

    Please, do not leave materials on or by the book drops, the front door, or back dock; the library is not responsible for loss or damage of items that are improperly returned.


    Can I return materials from other libraries to the Bloomingdale Public Library?

    Yes. The Bloomingdale Public Library participates in a delivery service, which transports materials throughout Illinois. Delivery service runs Monday - Friday only. Please allow time for your materials to be returned to the library from which you checked them out. Users are responsible for all items until they are removed from their account.


    Do you have a list of all the videos and DVDs you own?

    We do not have a paper list available. However, you can find online lists of the library’s new DVDs. To view the list, visit the New Movies and TV Shows page.


    What games do you have available?

    The library carries an extensive collection of board games and console video games. For a list of video games owned, please check the video games page.


    When I search the online catalog, I’m getting results for eAudiobooks and eBooks. What are eAudiobooks and eBooks?

    eAudiobooks and eBooks are downloadable books available through one of our eBook services. Downloadable books can be read or listened to on your computer, eReader, smartphone, tablet, or other compatible device.

    To download an eBook, you must have a Bloomingdale Library card and a personal computer/laptop or compatible device to install the software or app. Non-residents can't check out our downloadable items. For more information, please check the eBooks page.


    Do you have textbooks available from local schools?

    Yes, we have a selection of textbooks from Lake Park High School and Westfield Middle School. However, we do not have all class textbooks available. Textbooks are for in-library use only; they may not be checked out.


    The library doesn’t own an item. How do I put in a purchase request?

    You can make a purchase request in person at the Adult or Youth Services Reference Desks, by phone (630-924-2730), by email (bdref@mybpl.org), or online through the Request an Item Purchase Form.


    How do I check out a museum pass from the library?

    If you have a Bloomingdale Library card, you can check out a museum pass through our Museum Pass programs. Visit the Museum Pass programs page for more information.


    Library Computers & Tech

    Do you have public computers available?

    Public computers and laptops for use in the library are available in our Computer Lab. There are also two Express Station computers available for short 15 minute intervals. Visit the Computers page for more information.


    Can I use my own software on the public computers?

    You may only use the library's software. Computers are equipped with the Microsoft Office suite, which includes Word (word processing), Excel (spreadsheet), PowerPoint (presentation), and Access (database).


    How much do you charge for printing? Can I use my own paper?

    Starting March 2, 2024, printing will cost the following:
    Color printing: 20¢ per page
    B&W printing: first 100 pages free, then 10¢ per page

    You may provide your own paper, if approved by library staff. Label paper, transfer paper, or any form of adhesive paper is not allowed. Staff will load the paper for you if approved.


    Do you offer computer training or classes?

    The library offers many computer classes for all age groups. There are classes for all Microsoft Office programs, Internet, email, Windows, and more. For more information, please visit the Computers page.

    Bloomingdale cardholders can also use our online learning resources such as Gale Courses, LinkedIn Learning, or Learning Express Library.


    Do you offer wireless internet access/Wi-Fi?

    The library offers wireless internet access during our normal operating hours. A password is not required to use our Wi-Fi and the network name/SSID is Library.Guest.


    Do you offer scanning?

    The library has multiple Simple Scan Stations available. Use the Simple Scan touchscreen to easily scan and save to a flash drive, email, or fax. The Simple Scan Station comes equipped with a flatbed scanner for books and magazines, as well as a high speed document scanner. You can scan items and save them in several different formats including PDF, Searchable PDF, JPEG, TIFF, and Word document.


    Does the library offer 3D printing services?

    The library offers 3D print services to the community. For a small fee, we can print your 3D creations. See the 3D Printing page for more details and print specs.


    Library Services

    I'm a person with a disability and can't get to the library. How do I get library materials?

    We can bring library materials to you if you are a person who has a temporary or permanent disability and can't get to the library. There's no charge for this service, but patrons must live in Bloomingdale and have a valid library card. Contact Homebound Services at the Reference Desk by calling 630-924-2730.


    Do you have meeting rooms available?

    Meeting rooms are available at the library for a fee. See the Meeting Room Policy and Regulations page for more information, which includes rental fees, room restrictions, and instructions on reserving a meeting room. Commercial groups are prohibited from reserving our meeting rooms.


    Do you have study rooms available? Can I reserve a group study room?

    The library has 2 study rooms available for reservation:

    • 1 Group Study Room (8 people max)
    • 1 Quiet Study Room (2 people max, no talking)

    To reserve a study room, visit the Adult Reference Desk or call 630-924-2730. Study room reservations are not available online.

    • Study rooms can be booked up to 2 weeks in advance.
    • Advanced reservations can be booked for 2 hours max per day.
    • If no one else is waiting to use the room, room use can be extended up to 4 hours max per day.
    • Rooms held for 15 minutes for reservations.
    • Open to all patrons in high school and older (not restricted to Bloomingdale cardholders) and free to use​.
    • If there are no advanced registrations, rooms are available on a first come, first served basis.​


    Do you proctor tests?

    Adult Services librarians can proctor physical tests (mailed or emailed to us), not online tests. Please contact the Reference Desk at 630-924-2730 for proctoring information.


    Do you offer faxing?

    The library offers faxing for a fee. Faxing services are cash only (credit cards not accepted). The library's fax number is 630-529-3243.

    Local Chicagoland area codes
    1st page: $1.00
    Additional page(s): $1.00 each

    Long distance
    1st page: $2.00
    Additional page(s): $1.00 each

    International (some countries cannot be faxed to)
    1st page: $3.00
    Additional page(s): $2.00 each


    Do you offer notary services?
    Notary Availabilty

    Notary services are available for free at the Adult Services Reference Desk. Please call the Reference Desk at 630-924-2730 to check notary availability, since notaries are not always here, especially on nights and weekends. Notaries are usually available until one hour before closing (Monday-Thursday until 8PM, Friday-Saturday until 4PM, Sunday until 4PM when open).

    Notarization Instructions

    • To have a document notarized, please follow these steps:
    • SIGNERS: DO NOT sign or date the form ahead of time. It must be signed in front of the notary.
    • SIGNERS: All people signing must appear in person at the library. The library does not offer electronic notarizations or remote online notarizations.
    • WITNESSES: For any documents that require witnesses (power of attorney, wills, etc.), you must provide your own witnesses. Witnesses must appear in person at the library at the same time as the document signer(s) with a valid photo ID. Witnesses must be at least 18 years old, of sound mind when witnessing, and they can't benefit from the contract or be related to one of the signers (no conflicts of interest). The library cannot provide witnesses, and witnesses may not be solicited from patrons using the library.
    • DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS: You must bring in the entire document. "A notary cannot complete a notarization properly without having a moment to visually scan the entire document. Seeing only a signature page is not sufficient." (Notary Public Stamps website)
    • DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS: All blank spaces, with the exception of the signature/date lines, should be filled in prior to arriving for notarization. Notaries may not notarize a document with any blank spaces. "If a signer indicates that certain spaces in a document are to be left blank because they do not apply, they should insert a line through the spaces or write “Not Applicable.” This protects the signer from later unauthorized insertions, and it may prevent the notary from appearing as a witness in a lawsuit." (Illinois Notary Public Handbook)
    • IDENTIFICATION/ID: Bring unexpired, valid photo identification. Photo IDs must be issued by the state or federal government and have a valid signature. The ID name must match or have more information than the document.

      - Valid Example: Document lists Mary H. Jones. Your license shows Mary Harriet Jones. This ID is valid for identification purposes.

      - Invalid Example: Document lists John Henry Smith. Your license shows John H. Smith. This ID is NOT valid for identification purposes.
    • If these instructions are not followed, notaries will not be able to complete the notarization.

    Items We're Unable to Notarize

    • Cook County real estate transactions (AKA document of conveyance)
    • Vital records - Birth, death, marriage, or divorce certificates and citizenship or naturalization certificates. You must request a certified copy from the county clerk, local registrar, or state Department of Public Health/Vital Records.
    • School records, diplomas, transcripts (apostilles) - Only the school registrar has the authority to provide certified copies of student records. They must have a school seal and a tamper proof envelope, so these should be requested directly from your school.
    • Military IDs or government common access cards (CAC)
    • IRS tax returns - The IRS can provide certified copies of tax returns or a free tax transcript.
    • Documents for loan closings, escrow, or similar transactions that require a certified Notary Signing Agent. From the National Notary Association: "A Notary Signing Agent is hired as an independent contractor to ensure that real estate loan documents are executed by the borrower, notarized, and returned for processing on time. Completing this critical part of the loan process enables the loan to be funded." Library notaries aren't trained/certified in these services and can't process these types of documents.



    Do you have a laminator?

    The library offers an 8.5" x 11" letter sized laminator for patron use. Laminating pouches must be purchased for use (cash only). Ask at the Reference Desk for assistance.

    • The library sells standard letter sized (8.5” x 11”) pouches in 3 mil thickness. Each pouch costs 15¢ (cash only).
    • Patrons can also laminate multiple smaller sized items in the pouches (like wallet sized cards).
    • We DO NOT allow patrons to use their own pouches. If you need more involved laminating services, please visit an office supply store.


    Can I register to vote at the library?

    Residents can register to vote at the Adult Services Reference Desk. Please call the Reference Desk at 630-924-2730 to make sure there is a registrar on duty.

    In order to register to vote, you must meet the following qualifications:

    • You must be a United States citizen.
    • You must be at least 18 years old on or before the next election.
    • You must live in your election precinct at least 30 days before the next election.
    • You cannot claim the right to vote anywhere else.

    Bring two forms of identification, one of which must show your current address. Naturalized citizens must bring the exact date and court/city of their naturalization or a current, valid U.S. passport.

    Voter registration closes at the library 28 days prior to an upcoming election. More information about voting is available online at the DuPage Election Commission.

    Voters can also register online at https://ova.elections.il.gov/. You can use this system to register for the first time or update the name or address on an existing registration. You must have a valid Illinois Drivers License or State ID to register online.


    Do you have tax forms available?

    Starting in January or February, the library has select print federal and state tax forms available. Please contact us for the full list of forms available.

    Most forms can be printed from the IRS website. Copies of forms from prior years are also available online.


    Miscellaneous Questions

    Are there any job openings at the library?

    Check the Employment Opportunities page for library job openings.


    What is your policy on tutoring?

    The Bloomingdale Public Library does not allow the use of its space for commercial tutoring.


    Who are my local, state, and federal government officals?

    Check the Government Officials page for a list of state, federal, and local representatives.