Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re a resident or taxpayer of the South Country School District, you are eligible for a South Country Library card. Your South Country Library card is your passport to a variety of library services, privileges and activities.

How do I get a library card?

Adult applicants for library cards must provide a photo ID and verification of their physical address. Any of the following items imprinted with both the applicant’s name and address will be accepted as form of official address verification: • A current New York Driver’s License, ID card, student ID or work ID • A current rent or lease agreement • A current utility bill • A current voter registration card • A current renter’s homeowner’s or car insurance policy • A current property tax statement • Checks with an address imprinted on the face of the check • Bellport Village Identification Card
If you do not have one of the official forms of address verification listed above but are able to upload a photo ID and a recently postmarked envelope mailed to you at your address, we will issue you a card.
If you are a non-resident of South Country but work in the district and are applying for a card, please provide a photo ID, verification of your home address, and verification of your employment in South Country (pay stub, work ID/badge, or other valid documentation). To apply online, go to the Library Card Apply/Renew page.

What if I lose my library card?

If you lose your South Country Library Card, notify the Library in person that your card is lost so we can mark your card lost. To replace your card you must show a valid I.D. with your Country School District address. The cost of replacement is $2.

How can I apply for Children’s and Teen cards?

A child/teen under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian when applying for a Library Card. Your child, from infancy through the 5th grade, is eligible for a Children’s Library Card. When you register your child, you may choose to limit your child’s access to materials and computers only in the Children’s Room. Please stop by the Patron Services Desk to review and change these access decisions at any time. A child is eligible for a Teen Library Card on of the summer he/she completes 5th grade. The parent/guardian must be present to sign the new Library Card or you can apply for the card online at the Library Card Apply/Renew page.

Can I get a library card if I work within the South Country Library School District?

Yes! Library cards for people employed within the South Country School District are available upon registration at the main desk. Please bring ID with your name and home address and a letter from your place of employment. You can also apply online at our Library Card Apply/Renew page.

How often do I have to renew my library card?

Your library card is valid for 2 years. In order to renew your card, you must present proof of residency or ownership within the district. Library cards must be clear of all delinquencies and/or fines before they can be renewed. Renew your card online at the Library Card Apply/Renew page.

How do I access my account online?

You can access your library account by clicking on “My Account” on the South Country Library Library webpage. 1.Enter your library barcode or username. 2. Enter your password. If you have not established a password yet you may enter one now. You will be asked to verify your password. Please contact the Library at 631-286-0818 if you require further assistance.

How can I renew materials from home?

Library cardholders may renew their own materials online. Please note that each library in Suffolk County has individual rules for the circulation and renewal of their items. Not all items will be renewable for the same time period, or will be eligible for the same number of renewals. Items that are already overdue or on hold for another member of a Suffolk County library will not be renewable. If you experience difficulty renewing items or need assistance, please contact the Library at 631-286-0818. How to Renew Items: 1. Enter your library card barcode or username, then enter your password to log in to your library account. 2. Select the materials you want to renew by checking the boxes in the RENEW column and then click the Renew Marked button. If you want to renew everything, click the Renew ALL button. 3. If you cannot renew items, a message will appear on the screen. If you are successful, a new due date will appear in the “STATUS” column. Always check the STATUS column for information to ensure your renewal has been successful.

What if I lose or damage Library materials?

If you damage or lose Library materials you are responsible for the replacement cost of the item and any processing fees that may apply. You may pay by check, cash, or online in your Library Account. If you have any questions please contact the Patron Services Department.

How will I be notified when my holds are available?

If you have added an email to your library account you will receive email notifications when items you placed on hold are available. If you do not have an email the Library will call you to let you know your items arrived. Please ensure that the Library has your up to date e-mail address or phone number. You also have the option to receive text notifications through your Library account.

Can I pay my fines online?

Yes. Sign into your library account to do so.

How do I get a pin/password for my library account?

The first time you sign in to your library account, you will need to create a password. 1. Type the Barcode located on your library card. 2. Type a password into the “Password” field. 3. Click Go or press “Enter.” You will be asked to re-enter your new password for verification. 4. Once in your library account, you may change your password by clicking “Change Your Password.”

Does the Library have WIFI?

Yes, the Library has free WiFi for public use. Please see a staff member if you need assistance.

Does the Library have a scanner/copier/fax machine?

Yes the library has a scanner, color copier, black and white copier, and a fax machine.

How much does it cost to print or copy?

Copies are 10 cents a page. South Country Library cardholders receive $1.00 per day in free printing. Black and White print jobs cost 10 cents a page. Color print jobs cost 50 cents a page. Scanning is free. Wireless printing does not include the $1.00 per day in free printing.

How much is the fine for a late book, DVD, etc.?

The only library items that accrue overdue fines are DVDs, “Lucky Day” books, museum passes, Launchpads, video games and “library of things” items. The rest of the collection is fine-free.

How do I register for Programs?

To register online click on the Events found on the main menu on our website. All programs at the library are free unless otherwise noted. You must register in person for programs with a fee. Please note: A South Country Library card must be presented in order to register for Children’s programs, Teen programs and some Adult programs.

How do I reserve a Museum Pass?

Free museum passes are available to South Country Library cardholders in good standing, with cards that have not expired, and who owe less than $6.00 in fees. Reservation can be made up to one month in advance online or in person at the Library. Please call a librarian at the Children’s Desk (631) 286-0818 extension 3 for additional information.
Reserve a Museum Pass