Frequently Asked Questions

How do I renew my items?

You may renew items at Sherrard Library, by calling or by logging on to your online account.

During open hours, you may call Sherrard Library (309-593-2178) to renew your items. Or, you may call the automated phone renewal number (1-888-542-7259) any time, including when the library is closed.

You may also renew items any time in your online account, using the online catalog

Steps to renew online:

Select “Log In to My Account” in the top right corner of your screen
Enter your library card number
Enter the last four digits of your library card number for you PIN
Go to your Checkouts, select renew for each item you'd like checked out

Renewal will NOT submit if:

Your account is delinquent or needs updated.
The item has reserves (holds) placed on it.
The item is overdue.
The item has already been renewed once.
The card being used to renew is not the same as the card that checked out the item.

How can I pay my fine?

You may pay your fine at the library with cash or check, or credit / debit card with $1 minimum. We do not accept payments over the phone. Replacement bills for non-Sherrard Library items may be paid in-person with cash or check, or via the catalog with credit / debit card.

Steps to pay online:

Select “Log In to My Account” in the top right corner of your screen
Enter your library card number and the last four digits of your card number for your PIN
Select “Fines and Fees” from the "My Bookshelf" tab

I paid for a lost library item, but later found it. Can I request a refund?

Sherrard Library does not offer refunds for fees previously paid, including replacement costs for lost items, even if the original library material is located. If you find the item that you have paid for, please keep it for your home library!

Relatedly, if library materials have been lost or damaged, please do not purchase another copy to provide the library. Sherrard Library cannot accept purchased replacements. Instead, the replacement fee must be charged and paid through the library software system. Patrons who purchase a copy of the lost or damaged item will still be charged the replacement fee for the library item.

How do I download eBooks?

With a valid library card, you have access to thousands of eBooks and eAudiobooks through Libby and The Palace Project!

Steps to access Libby

Download the Libby app onto your smart device
Select Sign Up, and choose to Sign Up using a Library Card
Enter “Sherrard Public Library District” in the search box and continue to select Sherrard Public Library District as your home library
Enter your library card number, and the last four digits of your library card number for your PIN
Select Sherrard Public Library District and then Online Media of Northern Illinois Libraries
From there, you may search for and download eBooks and eAudiobooks to your smart device

Steps to access Libby

Download the Palace Project app onto your smart device
Search and select "Sherrard Public Library District"
Select items to borrow
Enter your library card number, and the last four digits of your library card number for your PIN

Please stop into the library or call the front desk if you need additional help!

How do I register for programs?

Event registration must be completed online via Engaged Patrons

Steps to register

Select the event for which you would like to sign-up
Select "Register Now"
Enter the required information (if the program attendee is a child, please include the child's name and age)
A valid email address is required for registration
Select an optional reminder through text or email

You will still need to call the library at 309-593-2178 to cancel if you have pre-registered for an event.

If you need help, we can do that! You are welcome to call or stop in to get assistance in registering.

How do I donate to the library?

Individual donations are tax-deductible and may be made in-person or via check to "Sherrard Public Library District." We thank our generous community for your continued support.

Memorials may be made to Sherrard Public Library District. Those honoring a loved one with a memorial donation may write a check to "Sherrard Public Library District," including the his or her name in the memo. This will ensure funds received are used in the manner requested.

To donate materials, such as books or movies, please see our Book Sale page. We encourage donors to call ahead, as we accept materials on an as-needed basis.

As a governmental unit that operates on non-taxable income (namely, fund-specific property tax levies), we are not equipped to donate monies to charitable causes or organizations.

For more information, please contact the Library Director at director@sherrardlibrary.org or take a look at our Collection Management Policy.