Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a library card online?
Yes! Apply online on our Get a Library Card page. To receive your library card, visit your local SHRLS library and bring a valid photo ID or two documents from the approved documents lists.

What do I need to obtain a library card?
To receive a library card, visit your local SHRLS library and bring a valid photo ID or two documents from the approved list. The most common form of ID is a driver’s license, but a utility bill, non-driver ID, or other form that clearly shows an in-county street address will be accepted. If you do not live in Georgia, but own property here, simply provide a valid photo ID and a tax bill showing the address of your property. 

How much is it to get a library card?
SHRLS library cards are free for residents of Chattooga County, Floyd County, and Polk County. A non-resident may sign up for a library card for an annual cost of $25.00. If your library card has been misplaced, you can receive a new one for $2. 

How old does my child have to be to get a library card?
There is no minimum age requirement to sign up for a library card, but a signature from a parent or legal guardian is required for children under the age of 18, and the child must be present to receive his or her card. A SHRLS library card in good standing may check out up to 50 items at a time, and some parents choose to use their own card to avoid losing track of library materials.

I babysit my grandkids all the time. Can I sign them up for library cards?
A signature from a parent or legal guardian is required to issue a library card to children under 18, but grandparents/relatives/babysitters are welcome to check out materials by signing up for a library card of their own.

Does my library card expire? Can it be renewed?
Cards issued by the Sara Hightower Regional Library System expire every two years. Renewing a library card presents an opportunity to update information that may have recently changed (address, phone number, email, etc.), opt-in to new library services, and update notification preferences related to your account.

How can I renew my library card?
In order to renew a library card, please visit your nearest SHRLS location with a valid photo ID or two documents from the approved list (if that address differs from the one listed on your photo ID). A library card cannot be renewed online or by phone. Upon renewal, cardholders may continue using their existing library card, or a replacement library card may be purchased for $2.00.

How do I replace my library card?
If a library card is lost or damaged, please visit your nearest SHRLS location with a valid photo ID or two documents from the approved list (if that address differs from the one listed on your photo ID).

Can I get my library card number over the phone?
We cannot provide your card number over the phone, for privacy reasons, but staff can provide a number of services over the phone without it.

How do I set up/reset my username and/or PIN?
The first time you log onto your PINES account you will need to use your card number and the last four digits of your phone number. Once you’ve logged onto your account you can set up an login or change your PIN through Your Account. If you don’t remember your PIN, you can contact one of our branches and we can update it for you!

How do I renew a book online?
Visit the catalog and log in with your library card number and PIN (or your login information). Visit Your Account, click View Loans, and click Renew Loan for the items you would like to renew.

How do I get the GALILEO password?
As of January 2022, users can no longer use a GALILEO password to access GALILEO databases in Sara Hightower Regional Library System’s e-Library. Instead, users must log in using their PINES library card number/username and password. If you need help resetting your password, please contact your local branch. 

How do I print?
Public printers are available for use at all SHRLS locations by visitors with a library card. Non-residents may receive a one-time computer guest pass, which is valid for printing services. For a list of services and printing costs, please visit our Print Services page.

Can I print from my laptop or wireless device?
We do not offer wireless printing but a library assistant can provide details on how to print from your wireless device.

Do you have a notary?
Sara Hightower Regional Library System offers a notary at specific locations. Contact your local library branch to ask if this service is available. 

Can you send a fax for me? How much does it cost?
Absolutely! Faxing services are available at each of our library branches for use by all visitors and cost $1.00 per page to send  and $0.50 to receive. A complete list of services and pricing can be accessed on our Print Services page. 

I have lost/damaged/misplaced my library book. Can I bring in a replacement copy?
SHRLS libraries cannot accept materials a patron has purchased in lieu of payment for a lost or damaged item. The full replacement cost is based on the cost to the library and also includes processing time and materials.

Can I pay my fine online or with a debit/credit card?
Yes! Patrons can pay online HERE, or at their local library branch with a debit or credit card. 

What are the library hours?
Each SHRLS library branch offers hours compatible with their local communities, click HERE to check the hours for your library branch.