New Patrons and FAQs
Getting a Darby Public Library card is easy and opens the door to a world of books, resources, and more. If you're a Montana resident, stop by the front desk with a valid photo ID and proof of address, and we'll set you up with a card.
New Patron Information:
A Darby Public Library card is available to any resident of the State of Montana. Visit the Darby library front desk to request a card. Simply provide valid photo identification and proof of address–usually a postmarked envelope, such as a bill. A library card will be issued upon confirmation of Montana residency.
Please note:
- Patrons under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian’s permission to apply for a library card.
- Visitors to Darby may qualify for a temporary library card. Ask a staff person for more information.
- Once a library card is issued, items can be checked out from DCPL immediately. With full privileges, an unlimited number of books and up to 14 DVDs can be checked out. The DCPL library card can be used at any of the Partner libraries across the state of Montana!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a library card?
Library cards are free.
Will I be charged a fine or fee for items I check out?
Darby Public Library is a fine-free library and does not charge for overdue items! You may be charged, however, for items you have kept well beyond their due date. These items are considered lost, and you will have to pay a full replacement fee for items you don’t return. We also charge fees for items that are returned damaged. We will accept like new copies of lost or damaged items.
How do I update my account?
Staff will update your account with the new contact information you provide. Call us at (406)821-4771 or stop by DCPL.
What is my PIN?
Your PIN was provided to you when registering for a library card. If you cannot remember your PIN, stop in or call us at (406) 821-4771 and we will remind you what it is once we’ve confirmed your identity. Alternatively, you can select the Forgot My Pin option when logging into your library account through the DCPL catalog (hyperlink). We will send your PIN to the email address you gave us when registering.
How do I know what I have checked out and when they are due?
To find out what items you currently have checked out and their due dates, you may log into your account through the DCPL catalog (hyperlink) using the barcode on the back of your library card and your PIN. You are also welcome to call us at (406) 821- 4771. A staff person will be happy to help you with questions about your account and renewals.
How do I report a lost library card?
If you believe you have lost your library card, call (406) 821-4771 immediately and staff will put a block on your card. No one will be able to use your card until you find it again.
What about holds?
Your DCPL card gives you access to over 400,000 items to check out. Many of these items are owned by our Partner libraries across the state of Montana. You can place a hold on an item through our catalog, through the Montana Shared Catalog app, or by giving us a call. Holds can take anywhere from one day to a few months before they are available to pick up. It all depends on where the item is currently located and whether or not someone else is ahead of you in the line to check it out. You will be contacted when your hold is ready to pick up if you have done one of the following:
- Provided us with your home phone number
- Provided us with your email address
- Downloaded the Montana Shared Catalog app and check your account regularly.
