FAQs • Roanoke County, VA • CivicEngage

What are Little Free Libraries?: A Little Free Library is a free book-sharing box where anyone may take a book or share a book. They function on the honor system. You do not need to share a book in order to take one. The Library and Parks & Rec have teamed up to have Little Free Libraries in parks across Roanoke County. View those locations here.

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Library

Show All Answers

1. How do I check out an eBook?: Links to Libby, cloudLibrary and other downloadable eBooks are available in our eCollection.
eBooks

2. How do I request a book from a library outside of Roanoke Valley?: Interlibrary loans, a service of the Roanoke County Public Library, allow you to borrow books, magazine articles, books on tape, and other materials from libraries outside the valley. You must fill out an Interlibrary Loan Request form to borrow materials. Complete details can be found at Interlibrary Loans

3. What other services are available at the library?

For a list of other services offered by Roanoke County Library, see How Do I on our homepage.

Services & Policies

4. What are automatic hold email notices?: When you have requested material ready to pick up, you’ll receive an email from our system (emails will come from sirsi@rvl.sirsi.net) letting you know it’s ready for you. It’s all automatic, so you won’t have to wait for a staff member to email or call you anymore!

5. What will you use my email address for?

Only for notifying you about library materials and your account. We will never sell or share your personal information with anyone, ever.

6. How can I get a library card?

It’s easy to get a library card. If you’re a resident of Virginia, you can receive your free library card from any Roanoke Valley public library or bookmobile.

Visit our webpage here for more information.

7. Why has my library card expired?: Cards expire every two years to ensure our records are up to date. If your card has expired, give us a call or stop by any Roanoke Valley Library for assistance.

8. Does the library have a notary?: The Glenvar Library has a notary. Please call 540-387-6163 before visiting the library to make sure they are available.
Glenvar Library Notary Services

9. How do I get a Passport at the Library?

Roanoke County Public Library is a designated Passport Acceptance Facility. We process passport applications by appointment only.

Call 540-777-8790 to schedule an appointment.

Find out more information on our webpage.

Passport Information

10. How do I request an item for the library to purchase?: Fill out a Materials Suggestion Form.
Materials Suggestion Form

11. What does it mean to be “fine-free”?: As of July 1, 2022 all Roanoke Valley Libraries no longer charge overdue fines for materials turned in late (after the due date).

12. How do I reserve a study room?: Glenvar, South County, and Vinton have study rooms for patrons to use for free during our normal operating hours. For additional information, give us a call or make your reservation here.

13. What are Little Free Libraries?: A Little Free Library is a free book-sharing box where anyone may take a book or share a book. They function on the honor system. You do not need to share a book in order to take one. The Library and Parks & Rec have teamed up to have Little Free Libraries in parks across Roanoke County. View those locations here.

14. How can I re-activate or renew my library card?: If you have been actively using your library card, it should automatically renew on the month immediately following its expiration. You should notice no gap in library services. If your library card has expired due to inactivity (2 years for most memberships), you will need to visit or contact your local library branch to have your membership renewed. At that time, you will be asked to confirm existing address and contact information or supply new information if it has changed.