Using the Library

Get a Library Card

Redford Residents

Library cards are free for all those that live in Redford Township. Library cards expire every three years. Please report a lost card immediately. Users are responsible for all items on a card, including any lost or damaged materials. To get a library card, simply:

  • Visit the RTDL Circulation Desk
  • Present your current and valid driver’s license or State of Michigan ID
  • If you are new to Redford and have not updated your address, you will also be required to provide a current piece of official mail with your Redford address on it

Not sure if you live in our service area?  View our service area map.

Residents may apply, renew, or update their information online:

Apply for Library Card Renew / Update Information

 

Minors

Those under 18 must complete an application and have it co-signed, in person, by a parent or legal guardian. Legal guardians must provide court documentation as proof of guardianship in addition to valid ID as outlined above.

Nonresidents

If you live outside of Redford Township, you may still use our materials, facilities, and attend events at the library. In order to borrow items, your options include:

  • TLN – Non-residents who live within the boundaries of a reciprocal Library Network library may use their card at RTDL.
  • MILibraryCards – RTDL participates in the statewide MILibraryCard program which offers lending to participating libraries. Non-residents may use their home library card with a MILibraryCard sticker to borrow items with some restrictions.
  • Purchased Cards – Non-resident purchased cards cost $125 per year and allow individuals to borrow non-print items, use the computers, and borrow more than the limit offered by the MILibraryCard.
  • School Cards – RTDL offers a school card to students who live outside of Redford but attend a school in the Township.  They may use this card to check out books, in addition to a limited amount of computer use. Valid identification plus proof of current attendance must be shown annually in order to obtain a school card, which expires on August 31st.
  • Local Business Cards – RTDL offers a local business card to owners and employees of businesses that are located within Redford. Valid identification plus proof of employment (pay stub) or ownership (LARA registry) is required.

Accepted Forms of ID

  • Michigan Driver’s License
  • Michigan State ID
  • A passport or ID/license with an old address may be used alongside one of the following:
    • Voter registration
    • Lease
    • Purchase agreement
    • Official mail such as a utility or tax bill

Check Out Materials

How do I know the due date?

Due dates are printed on the receipt you receive after checking out items in person. You can also log in to My Account to see due dates and renew items.

How long can I keep an item?

Most materials may be checked out for 3 weeks. You can check out movies for 1 week.  New and high demand items check out for less time.

What if I return an item late (after the due date)?

There is no overdue charge for items returned late.

How do I pay for lost items?

Pay lost item fees at the library circulation desk or log in to My Account. Credit cards are accepted online and cash, check, and credit cards are accepted at the library.

Can I keep an item past the due date?

You can keep an item past the due date by renewing it. You may renew an item if it is not on hold for another person or if it hasn’t been renewed too many times.

How do I renew an item?

Renewals are easy. We automatically renew eligible items, so you don’t have to.

Items will not be renewed when:

  • The item is on hold for someone else.
  • Your card is blocked for any reason.
  • You have reached the maximum number of renewals allowed.
  • Renewals are not allowed on the the material(s) (e.g., Equipment, eBooks).

About auto renewal:

  • When your item is automatically renewed, you will see the new due date when you log into your account.
  • You will not be notified if your automatic renewal is successful.
  • If items cannot be automatically renewed, you will receive a due date reminder by your chosen method (text, email or phone).

You can renew items manually by using My Account, by phone, or in-person at RTDL.


How to Reserve Materials

How long will I have to wait for my item?

The wait time varies, depending upon how many people have requested the item before you. You can ask the librarian how many people are on the waitlist.

How will I know when it is ready for pickup?

The library will call or email to let you know the item is ready. Please make sure that your contact information is up-to-date when placing a hold. You may also opt to receive notification by text message.

How can I locate my ‘on hold’ item in the library?

Your item will be on the hold shelf. The items on the hold shelf are marked with a slip of paper with your first and last name. They are organized alphabetically by last name. If you have trouble finding your item, ask a librarian for help.

What if the library does not own the item I’m looking for?

You may request a book through Interlibrary Loan, using MeLCat. This service is free and allows Michigan libraries to borrow items from other libraries around the state.

What are you looking for?