Departments → Library

Frequently Asked Questions

       

 
Q.  Where is the library located?
A. 

The address of the library is 100 9th Street NW.   From Highway 31 turn by City Hall onto 2nd Place NW. Go over Railroad Tracks bearing left.  At the traffic light turn right onto County Road 44/1st Ave W. Pass the Alabaster Church of God, continuing straight. At the Fire Station turn right onto County Road 95/9th St. NW. The Library is on the corner across from the Fire Station, but the entrance to the parking lot is to the rear of the building. Make the next left then turn left into the Library's parking lot entrance.  

 
Q.  How do you get a library card?
A. You must fill out an application and verify your home address with a form of identification such as a photo id or a utility bill. Individuals under the age of 18 must have parental consent to obtain a library card.
Q.  Is there a charge for library cards?
A.  Library cards are free of charge to anyone living within Shelby County or working in the City of Alabaster. If the initial library card is lost there is a replacement fee of $3.00. People living outside of Shelby County are charged a fee of $30.00 for a library card.
 
Q.  When is the library open?
A.  Library hours are as follows: Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 9:00 A.M. to 7:50 P.M.; Wednesday from 10:00 A.M. until 5:50 P.M.;  Friday 9:00 A.M. to  5:50 P.M.; Saturday 10:00 A.M. to  4:50 P.M.;  Sunday 1:00 P.M.  to 4:50 P.M.
 
Q.  Are there fines if materials are returned late?
A.  Yes, there is a fine of ten cents per day per item for books and audio books checked out for 14 days, and there is a fine of $2.00 per day per video and DVD title.
 
Q.  May I return materials after the library has closed?
A. 

Yes, there are outside drops for books and media located on the left exiting the Library parking lot. One drop is for book materials only, the other for DVDs and VHS tapes.

Audiobooks in any format and all magazines must be brought into the library during operating hours. Returning items in the wrong drop results in a $5.00 fine per item.
Q.  What types of programs are available for children?
A. 

There are a variety of programs for children of all ages. Tunes and Tales is is offered every Wednesday afternoon at 3:30.  Toddler Tales story time is every Friday morning at 10:30.  During the summer there is a Summer Reading Program with age appropriate programs for preschool through age 12. In addition, there is a Summer Reading Program for children in grades six and up.
Q.  Can I renew my items over the telephone?
A. 

Yes, telephone renewals are available for books, audio books, and music CDs.  Just call 669-3928. Movies and magazines may not be renewed. 
 Q.  Is Internet access available at the library?
A. 

Yes, Internet access is available as well as a selection of software products. There is not a charge for this service.  The Library also offers wireless internet access. 
Q.  Is there a public access copier at the library?
A.  Yes, a copier is available at a charge of  15 cents per page or more (depending on size). Also color copies are available at $1.00 per page at any size.