Frequently Asked Questions

Library Cards and Library Materials

How do I get a library card?

See our Getting a Library Card page for answers to all your questions about getting a card. 

How do I get books, DVDs, and other materials from other libraries?

There are several ways to get materials from other libraries. Check out our Request a Book page for more comprehensive information. 

Your card allows you to request material from any NOBLE library. Simply search all NOBLE libraries  in the catalog and place a hold using your library card number and PIN. Alternatively, our Information Services staff will be happy to help you place a hold in person or via phone.

You may also request materials from Massachusetts libraries outside of the NOBLE system through Commonwealth Catalog using your library card number and PIN. Alternatively, our Information Services staff will be happy to help you place a hold in person or via phone.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for in a NOBLE library or Commonwealth Catalog, one of our Information Services librarians will be happy to track in down for you. See our Request a Book page for the appropriate forms. 

How do I borrow electronic books and audiobooks?

First off, check out our Online Collections! You can find electronic books, audiobooks, graphic novels, television, and films and access them all from our catalog. If you see something you like, click on the title in our catalog. Underneath the Title and cover image of the listing you’ve clicked, you’ll see a link that says “Access Title from OverDrive” or “Access for Gloucester Residents via Hoopla Digital”.

OverDrive

Click the “Access from Overdrive” link, and you will be taken to the OverDrive interface and the book or audiobook you want to borrow. You’ll see a button that allows you to borrow the title or place it on hold if it is not immediately available. If you are not logged into your library account, you’ll be prompted to enter your card number when you try to borrow or place the title on hold. 

You can also access Overdrive on your Windows 10, Android, or iOS device with the Lbby App. Users with a Kindle Fire or Windows 8 operating system will need to use the original OverDrive App. Using either app, you may browse our online collections of books and audiobooks after selecting the NOBLE system as your home library. 

Hoopla

Click the “Access for Gloucester Residents via Hoopla Digital” link, and you will be taken to the Hoopla interface with the resource you wish to borrow. Click the blue “Borrow” button. There are no wait times or holds on Hoopla resources, so you will be able to borrow immediately.  Sawyer Free Library users may borrow five (5) items per month. 

If it is your first time using Hoopla, you will be prompted to create an account using your email address. When you log in, you will be prompted to enter your library card number. 

You can also access Hoopla from your iOS, Windows, or Android device, as well as Kindle Fire devices by downloading the Hoopla App. 

How do I borrow electronic magazines and newspapers?

Check our E-Magazines+E-Newspapers page for links to our magazine and newspaper databases as well as instructions for use. 

How do I renew my books?

If the items you’ve borrowed have renewals left and are not on hold, there are several ways to renew. You can sign into your account online to  view and renew the items you have checked out.

You can renew electronic materials if they have not been placed on hold by signing into your OverDrive account. 

How do I get books delivered?

If you can’t get to the Library, we bring the Library to you! Check out our Home Delivery page to learn more.

How do I make a purchase suggestion?

If you think there’s an item we should have, ill out the form on our Request a Book page or pick up one at the main desk. 

Using the Library

How do I request a meeting room?

You can reserve a room online or give us a call at 978-281-9763 ext. 21. We have several spaces that the public may reserve. Check out our Book a Room page to learn more about our rooms and the types of events they can host. 

How do I get to the library?

Check out our Plan Your Visit page for comprehensive directions to our building and parking lot. 

How do I apply for exhibit space in the Matz Gallery?

Check out the Matz Gallery page to see what’s showing this month and when the Call for Artists is accepting applications. 

Printing

Can I print something from my email or the internet at the library?

Printing is available from our public computers on the Main floor and from a mobile device or laptop.

How much does printing cost?

You may print 10 pages of Black and White pages for free.

At this time, Color printing is unavailable. 

Scanning

Can I scan documents and pictures at the library?

Scanning is not available at this time.  

Copying

Where can I make regular copies?

A copy machine is also available on the main floor near the Main Floor service desk. 

Can I make color copies?

No.  We’re sorry for the inconvenience but color copying is not available at this time.  

How can I pay to print?

We are not accepting payment for printing.  You may print 10  Black and White  pages for free. 

Faxing

Can I fax a document from the library?

Unfortunately we do not offer faxing services at this time. 

Computers

Is there a fee for using the computers?

No. Computers are free to use. You  may also print 10 free Black + White copies. 

Where are the computers?

Two Express computers are located on the Dale Ave side of the Main Floor.  Computer sessions are limited to 30 minutes.

How do I log on to the computers?

Simply choose a computer that is free and enter your library card number to log on. 

I don’t have a card. Can I still log on?

Sure! Just let someone at the Main Services desk know, and we’ll print you a guest pass. 

Is there a limit to how long I can use the computer?

You can use computers for up to 30 minutes.

WiFi

Do you have public WiFi?

We do! Choose Sawyer Free Library on your devices to log on. There is no password or limit to use our WiFi.