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Getting and Using your Library Card

Your Ridgefield Library card is your key to a treasure trove of riches. With it you can borrow any of our 130,000 books, DVDs, magazines and other materials, and even access the holdings of many other libraries. It also allows you to use our computer resources, including remote access to many valuable research tools. Get one for every member of your family today!

Contact: Circulation Department 203-438-2282 x1008 circulationdesk@ridgefieldlibrary.org

Instructions on Creating a User Name and Password for Accessing "My Account" Features of New BibliOak System

To start using the the new system to renew items, place holds or check account information, each library card holder must set up a new user account.  You may do this online from home or we will be happy to assist you to do this here at the Library.  Just ask at any reference desk. 

  • Go to the new BibliOak catalog.
  • Look for the "My Account" link on the front page of the catalog  and click on it. 
  • Access the system using your library card number as your user name and the last 4 digits of your phone number as your password.  
  • If you are having difficulty, it may be that you are trying with a phone number other than what we have on file for you.  Try alternate numbers (work, cell, old home number).  If all else fails, call us and we can check what number is in your account record. 
  • You must then change your password, following the parameters listed.
  • Once you have done that, you will need to log in again and may then change your user name. You may keep your library card number as your user name if you prefer, or substitute something easier for you to remember.  
  • Next, click on the tab named "Account Preferences" at the top of your account summary.  Please select a "Default Hold Notification Method" and then save your preference changes. We encourage people to choose "Use Email Only" for the fastest and most efficient notification.
  • Now you can renew items you have out, check the status of your account and reserve books online. 

This new log-in protocol will provide more convenience (no need to remember that long barcode number) as well as enhanced security (through the addition of a personal password only you know). 

Getting or Renewing a Ridgefield Library Card

Any Ridgefield resident is entitled to a free library card. You will need to complete an application and present proof of residency (driver's license, utility bill with street address, etc.) at the Circulation Desk. Each patron is issued a set of cards, one regular wallet-sized card and one keychain card. There is a $1.00 fee for replacement of a lost card.

Jamison Odone CardA special edition library card featuring custom art by illustrator Jamison Odone is available for a fee of $5.00. Please bring your existing card with you if you wish to transfer your account to a special edition card.

Cards are valid for two years. To renew out-of-date cards, come in to the Library and show proof of your address at the Circulation Desk. Check-out, renewal and other transactions may be blocked if your card is expired or due to expire imminently.

Children through age 17 may have their own card, with the signature and proof of residency of a parent or guardian.

Out-of-state residents may obtain a card for use at the Ridgefield Library only for $50 per year per family. Those who own property or work in Ridgefield may inquire about a waiver of this fee.

New cardholders receive a welcome packet including a coupon for a personal guided tour of the Library. Contact Assistant Director Mary Rindfleisch at 203-438-2282 x1009 to schedule your visit.

Please report any changes in mail or email addresses to the Circulation Department promptly.

Reciprocal Borrowing Privileges

Your local library card may be used at most public libraries in Connecticut, through a state program called ConnectiCard. You may need to register your card with a new library before taking advantage of this privilege; you may also be required to show the wallet card, which contains identifying data not found on the keychain version.

Books borrowed from other libraries may be returned to the Ridgefield Library, and we will send them to the proper library.

Residents of other Connecticut towns may borrow items from the Ridgefield Library by showing a valid card from their hometown library.

Managing your Account

Check the My Account feature in our Online Public Access Catalog for details of items checked out, fines due, reserves pending and other information.

A printed receipt is available for all circulation transactions, but due dates are no longer stamped on individual items.

Overdue notices are issued by email, as are reminder notices about items coming due sent several days ahead of time.

Notice of reserve items awaiting your pick-up may be received by email or phone.

Elf logoLibrary Elf allows you to customize the reminder, overdue and reserve notices you receive and combine information about all your family's accounts at any participating library in one handy communication. You can even receive Elf notices via text message or RSS!

Library Elf users - To continue to receive Elf notifications, you must first update your library account information in BibliOak and then log in to Elf and add your new library password to your Elf account as a PIN. You should have received an email from Library Elf with instructions, r you may call the Library for assistance.

Elf is a service provided by an outside vendor; please check their website for privacy policies and other information.