Circulation Policy

Who Can Check Out Items in the State Library's Collection?

• Kentucky residents age 18 and over with a photo ID.
• State government agency employees on site or using messenger mail service.
• Libraries via Interlibrary Loan.
• Non-resident college and university students (limited to use during the regular class session calendar).
• Professional librarians/archivists through libraries or institutions of employment.

How Do I Obtain a Library Card?

To obtain a library card, a patron must apply on site at the State Library. However, Kentucky state government employees may apply online, by mail, or by fax. For additional information please contact the Circulation Desk at (502) 564-8300, ext. 337.

KDLA online library card application

Mailing address: Circulation Desk, P.O. Box 537, KDLA, Frankfort, KY 40602-0537 Fax (502) 564-7859

What Is Your Privacy Policy Regarding Information on File?

The third statement in the Code of Ethics as adopted by the American Library Association states, "We protect each user's right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received, and resources consulted, borrowed, or acquired or transmitted.

Section 61.878 (l)(a) of the Kentucky Revised Statutes states:

(l) The following public records are excluded from the application of KRS 61.870 to 61.884 and shall be subject to inspection only upon order of a court of competent jurisdiction…

Public records containing information of a personal nature where the public disclosure thereof would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy…"

How May I Return Materials I've Checked Out?

Patrons may return items to Circulation during normal operating hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 - 4:30. Book drops are located outside the building for return of materials during evenings, on weekends or state holidays. Please do not place audiocassettes, films or videos in the book drops; these items need to be returned inside the library. State agency employees may return items using Messenger Mail.

What Is Your Overdue Policy?

Library users are notified of overdue material by mail. After the item is 56 days overdue, an invoice will be sent to the patron including the cost of the book plus a $10.00 processing charge. No fines are charged for overdue materials. Non-return or nonpayment for lost materials will result in suspension of borrowing privileges.

Kentucky public libraries and state institutions are notified by mail. After 56 days, an invoice for the cost of the item(s) plus a $10.00 processing charge will be sent.

OCLC subsystem borrowers receive a first overdue notice via the OCLC system. The final overdue is an invoice including the materials cost and a processing charge.

The State Library's General Collection serves Kentucky's need to know by assuring equitable access to high quality library information resources and services.