WPPL Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is Westlake Porter Public Library part of the Cuyahoga County Public Library system?
A. No, Westlake Porter Public Library is an independent library, not part of the county system

Q. Is it a hassle to get a library card?
A. No, library cards are issued "while you wait" (with current i.d.). You do not need to be a Westlake resident to be issued a card. Anyone who lives, works, owns property, or goes to school in Ohio can get one. You just need verifiable current identification.

Q. How many items can be checked out on a card at a time?
A. A single card can have up to 49 items on it.

Q. What should I do if my card is missing?
A. Customers are asked to notify the library immediately when a card is lost or stolen (to protect the customer).

Q. How about replacing a card?
A. Replacement cards cost $1.00.

Q. How long are the loan periods?
A. 3 weeks for all materials, except new adult fiction videos and DVDs, fastserv magazines,.and best seller "Express" copies.

Q. Can I renew?
A. Yes, materials can be renewed three times (except best seller "Express" ) for their normal loan period and may be renewed in person, over the phone or on the Internet through our Web Catalog. However, if an item is on hold it cannot be renewed.

Q. What should I do if I lose a book?
A. Customers are asked to notify the library if materials are misplaced... the library will grant a 3 week grace period depending on materials.

Q. What can be returned in the book drop?
A. Anything can be returned in the book drop. Even over due materials may be returned there, and fines may be paid later

Q. How much are fines and when do they have to be paid?
A. Fines are 5 cents a day and 25 cents per hour for special loans. The library uses a collection agency if materials have not been returned and/or accumulated fines have not been paid after more than 8 weeks. We expect all fines to be paid in a timely manner. If fines accumulate to $10, borrowing privileges are suspended.

Q: Can I return my books at other libraries, even though WPPL isn’t part of CCPL?
A: Yes, materials may be returned to any public library in Ohio and we accept materials from any public library in Cuyahoga County and most of Lorain County. A cooperative service delivers these materials back to their home libraries. There is no charge for this service.

Q. What are your hours?
A. We are open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday we are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Seasonal: Labor Day through Memorial Day).

Q: Is it true the library circulates Polaroid Cameras?
A: These cameras circulate for 3 weeks. Fines are 5 cents per day if over due. Patrons are responsible for supplying their own film.

Q. Do I need my driver's liscense to register to vote?
A. No, all you need to do is fill out the form.

Q: Do I have to use my social security number for identification?
A: No, you can choose another set of numbers.