Wisconsin residents of all ages are eligible for a free library card. Visit the check out desk at the Elisha D. Smith Menasha Public Library to fill out a library card application. You will also need a valid photo ID and proof of your current address, such as a piece of mail.
Children may be registered for their own library cards beginning at birth with a parent or guardian’s signature on their library card application.
A Menasha library card is valid at any of the 30 member libraries in the Winnefox library system.
Using Your Library Card
Most item checkouts are 28 days (books), 14 days (new books, Library of Things items) or 7 days (movies). We are a fine-free library, which means no late fees if you are unable to return items by their due date.
Visit our library catalog to search our collection or place holds on items from 30 area libraries in the Winnefox library system for pickup at the Menasha Library. Your Menasha library card also gives you access to our digital library.
Managing Your Account
Log into your library account using the My Account link on our website or the library catalog. You will need your library card number and PIN number (last 4 digits of your phone number) to access your account.
You can also us the Winnefox App to access your digital library card, find and request items, and manage your account from your smartphone.
Email or phone call due date notices are automated. Sign up to receive library notices via text message on your smartphone:
- When a hold is available for pickup.
- When an item you have checked out is due soon. Renew with a reply!
- If an item you have checked out is overdue.
Text the word “signup” to 833.568.7242. Standard text messaging rates apply.
Join the Favorite Author Club to have a hold automatically placed for you when your favorite authors release a new book, audio book, or large print book.
- Log into your library account.
- Choose Favorite Author Club.
- Select your favorite authors.
- Select a format from book, audio book, or large print book.
- Click submit.
FAQ
Where do I return my books?
Our outside book return is available 24/7 and is located just to the right of the main entrance. Inside the library, the book return is next to the checkout desk as you enter the main library.
Do you have curbside pickup?
Coming soon.
My card says it’s expired. What do I do?
If you get a notice saying your card is expired, we simply need to verify your contact information. We can renew your card in person at the Checkout or Information Desk, or you can call us at 920.967.3690 to renew your card over the phone.
What’s my PIN number?
Your PIN number is usually the last 4 digits of your phone number.
How long can I borrow the library materials that I check out?
We have several different due dates. You’ll be given a receipt when you check out, listing the due dates.
Most Items: 28 days
New Fiction, Library of Things, Magazines: 14 days
DVDs, Board Games, Video Games: 7 days
Can I renew my book?
Most items can be renewed twice. Exceptions include items with holds and Interlibrary Loans. You can renew items in person, over the phone (920.967.3680), or online using Your Account.
How much do you charge for late fines?
The library no longer charges fines on most materials.* You will still be billed for damaged materials or items that you don’t return.
* Fines are charged for late interlibrary loans ($1/day) as well as Chromebooks, Rokus, WiFi Hotspots, and projectors ($5/day).
If you use your library card at another library, that library’s rules apply–you may be charged overdue fines.
How many items can I check out at one time?
The maximum amount of items that can be checked out on one card is 100, or a total materials value of $1,000.
How many items can I put on hold?
You may have 50 items on hold at a time.