Where is the library located?
The McArthur Public Library is located at 270 Main Street in downtown Biddeford. Our hours are Monday-Thursday 9:30-8, Friday 9:30-5 and Saturday 9:30-3:30.
How do I get a library card?
You qualify for a free McArthur Public Library card if you live, work, own property, teach, or go to school in Biddeford. For all others, there is an annual $30 membership fee.
Library cards are issued at the Circulation Desk which is located in the main lobby of the library. All we need is a completed and signed application, current ID, and proof of your current residence (not just your mailing address). Family Cards: Out-of-town residents may choose to get one card for the whole family for a single membership fee of $30.00.
What can I use as an acceptable ID for proof of my Biddeford residence?
Acceptable ID:
Driver’s license or state ID
Social Security card
Passport
Immigration Registration card
School ID
Food stamp card
Acceptable proof of residence:
Auto registration
Printed checks/deposit slips
Utility bill
Cancelled mail with postmark dated within the last 30 days
Valid hunting or fishing license
Rent receipt
Lease or mortgage agreement
What if I lose my library card?
Call (207) 284-4181 immediately so library staff can change the status of your card. A replacement card costs $1.00.
How do I renew a book?
If they are not on reserve for another patron, library items may be renewed for one more check-out period. Renewals may be made in person, online or over the telephone.
There are three ways to renew a book. You can bring it in to the library with your library card and we will renew it at the Circulation Desk. You may telephone the Circulation Desk at 284-4181. Or you may use the online catalog, click the My Account link and enter the barcode from the back of your library card. Click on the "Items Currently Checked Out" link to see a list of the items you have out. Put a check mark next to each item you wish to renew and click the "Renew Selected " button at the top of the list. Overdue items, new items and some media cannot be renewed.
How do I place a hold on an item?
There are numerous ways to reserve an item. One is by asking a staff member to place it for you in person or by phone at 284-4181. You may also place it yourself by way of the online catalog.
Does the library have storytimes?
Yes, regular storytimes for children are held each week. For more information on regular or special storytimes please check the listing of this month's events and programs on the front page of our website or call the Children’s Department at 284-4181.
How do I reserve a museum or Maine Wildlife Park pass?
The McArthur Public Library has free and discount passes to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Children’s Museum of Maine, the Portland Museum of Art, Old Sturbridge Village and the Maine Wildlife Park. To reserve a pass, call the children's room directly at 207-571-7205..
Does the library have photocopiers?
Yes, there is a photocopier in the Adult Services section upstairs. The cost is 15 cents per page for black and white and 30 cents per page for color. You can scan to an email address from the copier for free.
Does the library have a public fax service?
Yes, a Fax24 kiosk is located in the Adult Services section upstairs. The cost is $1.75 for the first page and $1.00 per page for each additional page. The kiosk may only be used to send out faxes and cannot be used to receive them.
Does the Library provide access to the Internet?
Yes. Internet PCs are available at the library. Library users can sign up for Internet PCs via a computerized reservation system. To register, you need a McArthur Library card or pick up a guest card at the information desk upstairs or at the children's room desk downstairs.
What options do I have for printing from Library computers?
Printing is available for a fee (15 cents per page for black and white or 35 cents for color) from the library computers.
Does the Library provide wireless access to the Internet?
Public wireless network access (WiFi) is available throughout the building. McArthur Public is the network name.
How can I find information on library programs?
Check the Library Events and Programs link on the homepage of our website, subscribe to our events newsletter to get a monthly update in your email, or call the library at 284-4181 for all the latest information.
Does the library have a meeting room?
The McArthur Public Library has a large meeting room (60-80) and a small conference room (6-8) available for free to nonprofit organizations located in Biddeford. Due to our large number of ongoing library programs, use of the large community room may be limited, please call for availability. To inquire about meeting room use, please email meetingroom@mcarthurlibrary.org or call the children's room direcly at 207-571-7205 to reserve meeting room space.
Does the library have tax forms?
During tax season, some forms are provided to the library. Forms are located upstairs in the Adult Services section or they may be photocopied or printed out from the IRS and MRS's website upstairs at the information desk.