Apply for a library card at the circulation desk - you must present identification showing your current address. If your photo ID does not have your current address, a personal check, utility bill, envelope or post card with a recent postmark showing your current address is required. You must be 18 years of age to get an Adult card; Children cards require a guardian's signature.
All adult records are protected under Ohio statute. If an adult or child wishes to pick up an item that was reserved with an adult library card, they must present the library card that was used to place the hold, or a "linked" card before the item can be released. The same policy applies to renewal of items checked out on an adult library card. The adult library card used to check-out the items, or a "linked" card must be presented for renewals, whether by phone or in person. The library cannot make any exceptions to these rules. This policy was implemented on September 1, 2007 but does not pertain to juvenile records. If you have any further questions please visit the Circulation Desk or call the library at 440.255.8811.
Card holders are responsible for all items borrowed unless the card is reported to the library as lost or stolen. If you lose your card, you may replace it for $1.00.
Please remember that the Mentor Public Library's Teacher card Program is a Privilege allowing educators the opportunity to borrow materials for extended periods of time to accommodate their teaching needs.
The loan period for a teacher card is six weeks.
Items that can be circulated on a teacher card are as follows:
Due to the generous loan period of six weeks there are no renewals permitted on a Teacher Loan. Holiday books are available for the full six week period, however please be aware that the library managers reserve the right to limit the quantity taken during peak demand seasons.
Most items loan for two weeks with two renewals unless they have been placed on hold by another patron.
You may renew online through the catalog or phone the library and ask for Circulation Services.
| Material | Loan Period | Limit | Fine Per Day | Renewals |
| Books | 2 weeks | none | .10 | 4 |
| Magazines | 2 weeks | none | .10 | 2 |
| Music CDs | 2 weeks | 20 | .10 | 2 |
| Books on Tape | 2 weeks | none | .10 | 2 |
| Books on CD | 2 weeks | none | .10 | 2 |
| DVDs | 1 week | 15 | .50 | 2 |
| DVD Sets (3 or more DVDs) | 2 weeks | 10 | .50 | 2 |
| CD-ROMs | 2 weeks | 5 | .10 | 2 |
| Video Games | 1 week | 2 | .50 | 2 |
Library cards in good standing must be presented in order to check out library materials and to use the public computers. A library card must have under $5.00 in fines to be in good standing.