How do I request items?

The quickest and easiest way is to place a hold online.  If you do not remember your login, or need assistance placing holds, you can reach us by email or use our online chat.

When and how long does it take before I can pick up my items?

• Curbside pickup is available beginning Monday, June 8.  Curbside Hours: Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm; Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
• You will receive notification that your item(s) is ready by either phone, email, or text.  Please allow at least 24 hours for your requests to be processed.
• If you had items on hold prior to the library closure, you will receive a reminder soon.

Can we request items from other libraries?  Are all Petoskey items available?

All borrowing between libraries, including MeLCat, has been suspended. At this time you can only request Petoskey District Library items. 
Most Petoskey items are available for curbside pickup including Library of Things items, tax forms, and print jobs.

How do I pick up my requested items?

Beginning Monday, June 8, after you receive notification that your item is ready:

• Park in front of the main door at 500 E Mitchell Street and call us.  We will update this phone number June 8.
• To observe social distancing and safety precautions, we suggest wearing a mask even though you are in your car. For your protection and ours, library staff will also be wearing masks.
• Please pop your trunk and we will place the items in your trunk. If that is not an option, we will place them in the backseat on the passenger side.  All items will come with a checkout receipt.
• If you will pick up your items on foot, please call 5 minutes ahead and we will bag and label your items with your last name and place outside the front doors on a cart.

 How do I return library items?

• All items may be dropped off in the drive-thru book return box in the alley behind the Library, or in any of our off-site book returns. Please do not attempt to return any items to library staff directly, as we will be observing social distancing measures and all items need to go through quarantine protocols. Please note that there will be at least a 3-day delay in clearing items from your library account. During this time, we are unable to accept book donations.

What if I don’t have a library card?

• To determine if you’re eligible for a Petoskey District Library card click here.  Ready to register?  Fill out this form!  Staff will contact you within 24 hours with information about your library card.
• Have a card, but can’t find it?  You can  pick up items without your card.

Are you disinfecting books and/or other items? 

Items are emptied from our on-site book returns once a day, placed on carts, and quarantined for a recommended 3 days before being checked in and reshelved in the Library. We will follow the same process for incoming item requests.

How are you protecting library staff?

Staffing at the library has been reduced to minimum levels with limited staff on-site during operating hours. Staff are exercising proper social distancing protocols, practicing excellent hygiene, and wearing necessary personal protective equipment when handling items. Staff will not be interacting with the public.

When will the building reopen to the public?

We are following a phased reopening plan, so currently the Library, including all meetings, is closed to the public. We are offering some programs virtually- check our website and Facebook page for updates. Continue Reading