Thompson Falls Public Library

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at (406) 827-3547 if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Where is the library located?

Thompson Falls Public Library is located at 911 Main Street in downtown Thompson Falls, Montana.

How do I get a library card and how much does it cost?

New cards require in-person sign-up.

Renewals for TFPL cardholders can be done over the phone with library staff during library hours.

First time library cards are issued free of charge. Lost replacement cards are $5.00.

You will need to bring your Montana Driver's License (Sanders County) or Montana State ID (Sanders County) and proof of address (such as: utility bill, tax bill or rental agreement) for Thompson Falls, Trout Creek, Noxon or Heron.

Thompson Falls Public Library is NOT a partner library, and other library cards will not work at our location.

Is there a limit on the number of items I can borrow?

Not on most items, but all New Books and DVDs are limited to five at a time.

STEAM Kits, or Book Club Kits are limited to one at a time.

Music CDs, Audio Books are limited to 10 at a time.

What is my PIN?

When you receive your library card, the PIN number is CHANGEME. You can then create your own PIN number. If you don’t remember your PIN, click on the Library Catalog link on our website. In the upper right hand corner click on the I forgot my PIN box. Type in your library card number and, provided we have your email address on file, the system will send you your PIN. Otherwise, call (406) 827-3547 and a staff member can help you.

How long can I check out items?

Books, Audio-Books, Magazines -- 28 days

New Books, STEAM Kits, Music CDs --14 days

DVDs & Reference/Short-Term -- 7 days

How do I renew my books?

Go to the Library Website and click on the Library Catalog link. In the upper right hand corner click on the Login to My Library Account. Once you have logged in, click on My Library Account on the right hand side and choose Renew My Materials.

Renewals can also be done by calling the library at (406) 827-3547. If the library is closed leave a message, and library staff will follow-up with you.

You can also download the app, "Montana Shared Catalog" on your smart device or phone to renew materials. Enter your library card number, and PIN to view your account. If you have trouble with the app our staff can help.

What if I lose my library card?

Call (406) 827-3547 and let library staff know. A replacement card costs $5.00.

Does the library have private meeting rooms or private spaces?

No.

Our small rural library is a one room, open floor concept. We do NOT have any private rooms or private meeting rooms for use.

Any requests to use the library as a group or service meeting location must first be approved by the Library Director and requested two- weeks in advance. Library events, programs and services are first priority.

The Thompson Falls Public Library is very small and cannot accommodate large group gatherings or multiple events at the same time. Thank you for understanding.

Does the library have computers or WIFI?

Thompson Falls Public Library has computers available for the public to use.

Free wireless service is also available at the library 24/7 . Look for 'TFPLPUBLIC', there is no password.

By using our WIFI, users agree to follow all state and federal laws. The library is not responsible for any actions or misuse of the WIFI by users.

Computer/Internet Access is free.

Computer help & Online Tutorials available, call the library for more info (406) 827-3547.

Printing is available from the computers in black & white or color. (Black & white copies are .25 per side, and color pages are .50 per side.)

You do not need to have a library card to use the computers.

Anyone can use these computers once they have read and agree to abide by the Computer/Internet Use Agreement.

Time may be limited to 60 minutes per session if others are waiting.

Does the library take donations?

Thompson Falls Public Library is no longer accepting large book donations.

Small book donations (in like new condition, limit of one small bag) will require advance notice, and approved on a case by case basis.

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Does the library charge fees?

Thompson Falls Public Library does not charge late fees, but does charge fees for damaged or lost items.

All library materials are inspected upon return. Those materials deemed by library staff to be damaged will be assessed by the director.

Those materials deemed damaged or destroyed/unusable will be assessed a “lost” material charge.

Lost/ Replacement item fees:

Patrons will be charged the exact replacement cost for the item.

The director will look up the cost for replacement and apply the cost to the patrons account.

Lost items are items unable to be located by the patron. Damage items include but are not limited to: ripped or missing pages, damaged spine, scribbles or marks in books, water damage, food damage or heavily soiled pages.

Replacement items will not be accepted, for consistency and cataloging purposes.

Suspension of borrowing privileges: Borrowing privileges will be suspended if the patron has fines of $5.00 or more, or has an item 30 days or more overdue.