Rideau Lakes Public Library

How do I get a library card?

Permanent residents and cottagers may obtain a FREE Library Membership Card by filling out a short application at any branch of the Rideau Lakes Public Library. For more information on non-resident cards and replacement fees, find out how you can Get a Library Card.

Is there a charge for a library card?

There is no charge for library cards to residents of Rideau Lakes. Non-residents, however, must pay an annual fee of $20-35.00 CDN. Replacement cards, for all members, are $3.00 each.

We have reciprocal borrowing with Leeds and the Thousand Islands, Athens and Gananoque.

Can I return my books to any branch?

Yes, you can. Books and DVDs may be returned to any branch.

What does the library charge for late returns?

Materials that are returned past the due date are subject to overdue charges/fines. Fines for books, magazines and audiotapes are $.25 a day for adult materials with maximum charges for long overdue books. We do not charge for juvenile materials borrowed on a child's card.

When do I need to pay my late fines?

You should pay your late fines when you return the late items. If you are unable to pay at that time, you will need to pay your fines the next time you use your library card.

What are the library's hours?

The Library's hours of business vary from branch to branch. To see each branch's individual hours, visit our branches page.

How can I find out if a book is in the library?

If you would like to find out if a book is in the library, you can visit or call any of our five branches or search our online catalogue.

Can I search for books online?

Yes, you can now search the Library's database online via Unicorn and iBistro. Click here for more information.

The Library also subscribes to NetLibrary. NetLibrary allows patrons to read thousands of books online. See our NetLibrary page for more information.

Can I sign out books online?

No, you cannot sign out books online. You must visit one of our five branches to sign out any of the materials in our collection. However, you are able to place holds online to pick up at a branch at your convenience. For more information on placing holds online, visit your library account.

If you'd like to sign out and read books online, visit our NetLibrary page.

Can I place a hold on a library item signed out by another patron?

Yes, you can place holds on items currently loaned out to another patron. Place the hold online or ask a Librarian to do it for you.

Can I sign out books that are not in the library's collection?

For items not located within the Rideau Lakes system (which includes all five branches), our Interlibrary Loan librarian will try to obtain the material from another library. This process can take from 2-6 weeks (on average) and is provided at no cost to the patron. In some cases a small fee may be involved (the patron will be notified prior to receiving the material). Patrons will be notified by phone when the material arrives; items will be held for one week. Loan periods will vary depending on the source library.

For more information, visit our Services page.

Can I renew the items over the phone?

Yes, you can renew your items by phoning any one of our five branches.

Can I renew the items online?

Yes, you can now renew your items online. Please visit your library account to renew your items.

Can I renew overdue items?

Yes, you can renew overdue items. However, you will still be responsible for late charges that have accrued from the due date through to the date of renewal. Upon renewal, you will not accrue any additional late fines.

How can I volunteer at the library?

Please contact your neighbourhood branch for more information.

How can I work for or become employed by the library?

We currently have no employment opportunities available.

Do you have available meeting facilities?

We do have facilities during open library hours. Please inquire at the individual branch for details.

I still need help finding information. How can I get help?