Salinas Public Library

Salinas Public Library

The Salinas Public Library

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Now more than ever, digital skills are necessary. From making online appointments and staying in touch with loved ones to supporting your children’s learning, we are ready to help!

News Date: 
Jul 14 2020 - 3:00pm

Sometimes deciding which books to check out for your children can be daunting. The Salinas Public Library has made this easier by creating Grab & Go Bundles, small collections of...

Can I read to reduce fines accrued on another person’s account?

A parent or caregiver may read to a child, thereby reducing the fees on the child’s account (not the parent’s). Otherwise, no, you must read away the fees on your own account and cannot reduce the fees of other cardholders.

News Date: 
Jun 29 2020 - 3:30pm

Salinas Public Library will allow cardholders age 21 and under to get rid of library fines this summer by reading them away . For every day spent reading, $5...

Do I have to read a book to receive credit, or can I watch a movie, listen to music, or surf the web, instead?

Only reading material qualifies for credit, but that means more than just books — you can also read

Do I have to read the whole day to get credit?

No. While the program is based on a $5-a-day credit system, we are not requiring you to read for a certain period of time each day to get the credit. We do encourage you to read 30-60 minutes everyday.

If I don't have any balance on my account, or I already paid them, can I get cash or credits?

No. The Read Away program waives outstanding fees only. No reimbursement of past fees or credit towards possible future fees will be provided.

What fees will be waived?

Any and all fees accrued on your card. We will waive lost and damaged material replacement fees, processing fees, and library card replacement fees.

* Fees related to printing cost or meeting room rental are not eligible for this program.
** Since we no longer charge overdue/late fines, if you have one on your account, please let our staff know. We will remove all previously accrued overdue fines immediately.

How do I qualify?

If you have a Salinas Public Library card with fees or balance on your account, you’re eligible! You just have to log the number of days you have read by submitting the form above.