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Library Services & Borrowing Materials

The Dayton Metro Library is proud to offer a wide variety of services to the residents of Montgomery County and the state of Ohio. From traditional library services, such as library card applications and interlibrary loans, to some of the more unique services such as voter registration and meeting room reservations, the library strives to offer services that support our mission to "...inform, inspire and enrich our community by linking individuals to information needed for personal success..."

We also recognize the need to grow and adjust as technology and economic pressures create new challenges for library patrons. We are constantly striving to meet those needs while keeping the cost at the same low price it has been for decades...FREE! The library's new open computer lab at Main and our early literacy programs are just two of the ways we are working to meet your needs.

If you don't find a service you are interested in listed, please call 937.463.2665 and speak with one of our library staff members. We may offer something that can fit your needs or you may provide us with a valuable insight into an underserved need in our area.

BORROWING MATERIALS AND SCHEDULE OF CHARGES

Library Cards & Privileges

  • How to get a card at the library
    There are several different Dayton Metro Library card types. To receive a full-access library card, applicants must apply in person and show proof of address and proper identification, such as a current driver's license, a state-issued identification card, a current student identification card, or an armed forces identification card.
    eCards are available online, opens a new window for instant access to digital resources; they cannot be used to borrow physical materials. eCards can be turned into full Library cards when you visit a Library location, with photo ID, just visit an Ask Me Desk for assistance. For information about other library card options, please call the Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.
  • Borrowing Privileges and Schedule of Charges (PDF)
  • Inter-Library Loan
    IInterlibrary Loan allows you to obtain items not owned by Dayton Metro Library from other libraries in Ohio and around the country. Learn more about Interlibrary Loan.
  • Homebound Service
    Is it hard for you or someone you know to get to the Library? We can deliver books, movies, and music to your home free of charge! Dayton Metro Library provides this service to adults who have difficulty getting out. Tell us what you would like, and we'll bring it to you. Whether you need us for a few weeks or indefinitely, Home Library Services will be there. To learn more about Home Library Services, please contact the Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665 and ask for Outreach Services.
  • Online Accounts
    Using the My Library Dashboard feature, you are able to view what items you have checked out, what titles you have reserved and what fees you owe the library. To access your account, you need your library card number or username and a Personal Identification Number (PIN).

Returning Materials

  • All Dayton Metro Library locations have 24/7 book returns. Items may be placed here to be returned or given to Library staff at our Ask Me desks.
    • Can I return items that I borrowed from one library to a different Library?
      Sure! Be sure that both libraries are part of the Dayton Metro Library System. If you're not sure, call 937.463.2665 for assistance. Click here to see a list of our branch locations.
    • I returned something that belongs to a different library system. Who do I call?
      The items are sent to the Main Library; from there, are then shipped or mailed back to the owning library. Feel free to call 937.463.2665 for more information.

Public Resources

  • Copy Machines
    All libraries have copy machines available. Copies are 10 cents per page.
  • Computers
    There are computers with Internet access and Microsoft Office Products (including Word, Publisher, PowerPoint and Excel) available at all Dayton Metro Libraries. You may print from any computer for 10 cents per page for b&w prints and 30 cents per page for color prints. Documents on an external flash drive may also be printed from library computers.
  • Lost and Found
    I lost/left something at the library. Did anyone find it? For items at branch locations, please call 937.463.2665.

Additional Services

  • Voter Registration
    You can register to vote at any of our library locations. If you need more information about the requirements or deadlines, contact the Montgomery County Board of Elections at 937.225.5656.
  • Golden Buckeye Cards
    Golden Buckeye Applications are available at all Dayton Metro Library locations. Cards are free and available to Seniors age 60 and over or those with administration approved disabilities.
  • Income Tax Forms
    Income Tax Forms are available in season (normally January through April) at all Dayton Metro Libraries. The library carries Federal and State Tax Forms. City of Dayton tax forms will need to be copied in the library. Copies are 10 cents each. We suggest you call ahead to make sure that the library carries the form that you need.
  • Library Book Sales
    The library normally has several book sales each year. For dates, times, and locations, call 937.463.2665 or visit the Friends of the Library page here.
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