Catalog - Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a PIN?
  PIN stands for Personal Identification Number and is used along with your library card number for security purposes.
  
  
• What is my PIN?
  A temporary PIN (Personal Identification Number) has been automatically assigned to your account based on the last four digits of your telephone number. Please go to www.plcmc.org , click on “My Account” and change your temporary PIN to a more secure 4-digit number. Instructions are provided on the screen.
  
  
• How do I change my PIN?
  A temporary PIN (Personal Identification Number) has been automatically assigned to your account based on the last four digits of your telephone number. Please go to “My Account” and change your temporary PIN to a more secure 4-digit number. Instructions are provided on the screen. If you are experiencing difficulties changing your PIN from home, please call 704-416-0100 (available during normal operating hours). To complete the activation process (so that you can use your card to check out books or place holds), you will need to bring your card to one of our 24 library locations and present a photo ID.
  
  
• How can I renew checked out items on-line?
  You can renew online through the online catalog. For instructions on renewing on-line, click here.

• How can I get a book not listed in the catalog?
  If we do not carry a specific title, there are two options for you to try.
  1. If the book is older, we can try to get it through interlibrary loan. You may make this request by calling or visiting your local branch or you may call the main library at (704) 416-0100. To find out about Interlibrary Loan click here.
  2. If the book is new, you may fill out a "Suggestion for Purchase" form at your local branch or use our online form.

• How can I change my default pick-up location for requested items (holds)?
  A member of our staff must do this type of change. Please contact your local branch library or call our Telephone Reference service (704) 416-0100 to make this change. You will need to have your library card number to make these changes.

• What is a ‘block’ ? Why is it on my account?
  Blocks on an account can mean several things. They are there to remind our desk staff about different issues with an account. These reminders can be issues such as overdue fines, reminders to verify an address or telephone number, or a message to let a patron know that a hold has arrived or that a hold arrived and was never picked up. The blocks allow us to provide better service to our patrons.

• Can I be notified by email rather than phone when my requested items are ready to picked up?
  We do have email as a notification option. View our Email Notices page for instructions.

• What happened to Telnet access to the catalog? Why is it no longer an option?
  Due to security holes in the Telnet software, we can no longer offer it as a means to access the catalog. Our Information Technology department is exploring other connection options which we hope to be able to offer sometime in the future.

• How do I get a list of audiotapes, videos, DVDs, or large print books?
  On the catalog’s main page, you will find links to finding lists, which will provide a list of these specific formats by title and author. All items can also be found in the card catalog, under their subject, title, author or performers.

• How can I change my mailing address listed in “My Account” information?
  A member of our staff must do this type of change. Please contact your local branch library or call our Telephone Reference service (704) 416-0100 to make this change. You will need to have your library card number to make these changes.