Adams Free Library FAQs
You can find additional information about using our CW MARS Catalog and other online resources by visiting CW MARS here.
Library Cards
How do I get a library card?
Come in person to the library with a photo ID and proof of your current address. A driver’s license is sufficient.
Children’s cards are issued when the child is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who has proper ID.
I already have a library card; can I get it on my smartphone?
YES! The CW MARS Mobile App is available at the Apple App Store and Google Play. The app puts your library card AND your library in your pocket!
I already have a library card from another library, can I use it at Adams?
Maybe. If your library card came from another CW MARS Member Library then yes! You can continue to use your old card at the Adams Library. But be aware that you will not be able to access our online databases without an Adams Library card.
If your library card did not come from a CW MARS library, or if you’re not sure, come on in to the library and we’ll help you get a new card.
What are the benefits associated with my card?
As a Massachusetts resident and a member of the CW MARS Network, your card provides access to materials at more than 100 libraries across Central and Western Massachusetts. Our catalog is available online. With your library card number and PIN you can log in to your library account from home and access our databases, keep a reading history, view your own account, and more. You can also download E-books and E-audiobooks with your library card through Overdrive or Libby apps on your computer, smartphone or tablet.
Do I need my card to check out library materials?
The most efficient and reliable way to check out materials is to have your card.
If you do not have your library card with you at check out you will be asked to provide other proof of identity.
I had a library card but I lost it, now what?
If you lost your Adams Library card the replacement fee is $5.00.
If you are a new patron of the Adams Free Library and had a card at another CW MARS Library we will give you a new card at no cost.
If you have lost your card but do not wish to replace it you may use a photo ID instead.
Borrowing
How can I tell if the library has what I’m looking for?
You can search our catalog online at adams.cwmars.org to see if we own the item you’re looking for and if it’s currently available. Or you can call or email us at the library and we can look for you.
The library doesn’t have what I’m looking for, can I request it from somewhere else?
Yes! Through your library account you can request items from any library in the CW MARS Network. With your card number in hand you may request online, by phone, or in person at the library. To search the Adams Library catalog and other CW MARS libraries visit adams.cwmars.org.
What do I need to pick up my requests?
When notified that your item(s) is available for pickup, by phone, text, or email, come to the library with your card. If someone else is picking up for you that person must have your card, or you must notify the library that someone else has your permission to pick up your items. This is required to protect your privacy. [Mass. General Laws Chapter 78, Section 7]
I can’t find the item I’m looking for in the CW MARS catalog! Now what?
If a CW MARS library doesn’t own the item you’re looking for the next step is to check the Commonwealth Catalog, which lets you borrow items from other libraries all over Massachusetts at commonwealthcatalog.org. You can log in to request items with your library card number and your PIN will be the last 4 digits of your card number.
How long may I keep my items?
Books, Ukuleles, CD Audiobooks, Playaways, and Music CDs – 3 Weeks
DVDs, Magazines, Hotspots, PS4 & Xbox games – 1 Week
Museum Passes – 3 days (No renewals)
Please note that most items will automatically renew once. If you need more time with an item please contact the library.
What are the overdue charges?
For the summer of 2021 books, magazines, DVDs, audiobooks, Playaways, and music CDs will have no overdue fines.
Hotspots, videogames, ukuleles and museum passes will still accumulate overdue fines.
Hotspots, GoPro Camera, & Ukuleles- $1.00/day
Videogames & Museum Passes- $0.25/day
Items borrowed from other libraries may still be subject to fines based on the owning library’s fines policy.
How do I renew materials checked out on my card?
Most materials borrowed from the Adams Free Library have at least one automatic renewal (museum passes do not renew). Renewal of items from other libraries depend on the owning library’s policies. To check on due dates and renewals you can log in to your library account or call us to find out.
What do I do if I lose/damage something?
If you’ve lost or damaged a library item then you will be asked to pay the cost of replacing it. You will not be able to borrow anymore materials until this is cleared from your account. If this poses a financial burden please let us know and we will be happy to work with you.
If the lost/damaged item came from another library you will need to pay the owning library to replace the item.
How do I pay for fines &/or lost/damaged items?
You can pay for fines or lost and damaged items at the library with cash, check, or money order. To pay with a credit or debit card you can log in to your library account at adams.cwmars.org and click on Fines in the top right corner of the screen.