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Home | Library Catalog |Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
 

How do I find the new DVDs, blu-ray disc and new music CDs?

You can find new dvds, new blu-ray discs, and new music CDs by doing the following in our catalog:

Click the “Search” tab. You’ll see the Keyword tab is highlighted. Click the “Browse” tab to change the search method.

In the “Search for:” box, change “Title” to “Series”.

In the “that begins with” box type in ONE of the following:
new dvds
new blu-ray
new music

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Why can’t I get into the Library Catalog?

It may be that you are using an old bookmark from our previous library catalog. Please bookmark the following address, which is the newest hyperlink from our Library Catalog page. http://209.212.21.134/polaris

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My barcode will not register on the Library Catalog.

The new system requires that you enter either 9 or 14 digits, without spaces. After you enter your barcode, press the Tab Key and type in your password and press the Enter key. If your barcode number still does not work, call your local branch and ask them to verify your account information.

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What is a PIN or password?

A password (formerly known as PIN) is needed to access your account either via the online library catalog or through our automated telephone system. A password is necessary to protect your privacy. If you did not give us a password at time of registration, we used the last four digits of your phone number. If you want to change your password and you remember what it is now, you can change it yourself via our online library catalog. Click on the "Patron Account" tab. Log in with your library barcode number and current Password.

Click on "Change Logon", then click "Change Password". You will then see the following screen, but with your information:

Change Password

In the boxes, type your old password, your new password, then your new password again in the “Verification” box. Don’t forget to click the Submit button.

If you do not remember your old password you must visit a library branch and present identification before we can change your password.

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I do not have a PC - how can I renew items?

You can renew your items using our Automated Phone System, 24 hours a day, or you can call any of our branches during business hours to speak with circulation.

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My items will not renew.

There are several reasons an item does not renew. Even if an item is not a recent bestseller, it could be on hold for another customer. This will prevent a renewal. You can renew an item two times before you must return it. Also some copies of our newest titles are not renewable, to ensure there are "browser" copies on the shelf. If you need more information, please call your local branch and ask for circulation.

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How do I place a request?

When you see a title you want, look for the “Place Request” button.

After you click the button, if you are not signed in, you will be asked to log in with your library barcode number and your password. Next, choose one of our locations to pick up your item(s). Finally, click the “Submit” button.

Do not forget to log out when you are done especially if you are using the catalog on a public computer.

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I placed a request but how do I know it was successful?

You can check your “Request” list by clicking on the “Patron Account” tab. Enter your library card number and password, then click “Log In”. Click on “Requests”.

Your request list will include the title, the pickup library, the status, and where you are on the waiting list (hold position). You can also call our Automated Phone System or any of our branches to have your list verified for you.

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I placed a request on a book that is “In” but I am still waiting.

If a book is listed as "In" at a branch it may not be available to fill your request. If you have been waiting longer than a few days for a book that was “In”, please call the branch and they will assist you.

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How do I request new or current materials not owned by the library?

The best way to request materials not owned by the library, especially those by popular authors, is to call or visit the branch location where you wish to pick up the items. Staff will help you fill out a "Request for Materials" form and will forward the information to the appropriate department. Once the item is obtained, you will receive a notice it is on hold waiting for pickup.

You can suggest titles for purchase via the Ask-a-Librarian page on our website. If you decide to make your request with e-mail instead of visiting or calling, please be sure to include your name, library card number, and telephone number. Please include the library location where you would like to pick up the materials. Include as much information as possible about the title requested such as author, title, publisher, whether new or older material, fiction or non-fiction, subject, and the format (print, video, music etc.). One of the best ways to make sure you have all the correct information on your request form is to search your title in WorldCat. WorldCat is a free database of books owned by thousands of libraries. It can be a great resource to locate items you are unable to find in our catalog.

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How do I borrow a book from another library system (outside Ocean County) through the InterLibrary Loan service?

Currently, the InterLibrary Loan service via our online catalog or website is not available. Please call or visit the branch location where you wish to pick up the items. Staff will help you fill out a “Request for Materials” form. The form enables us to record all the information we need to search for the item, to explain ILL procedures and to record your library card number. One of the best ways to make sure you have all the correct information on your request form is to search your title in WorldCat. WorldCat is a free database of books owned by thousands of libraries. It can be a great resource to locate items you are unable to find in our catalog.

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Why do I see the catalog called by different names: PowerPac, OPAC, Polaris, or Library Catalog?

Each vendor has a different name for its library catalog product. We are phasing out the use of vendor names and are now referring to our catalog as the OCL Library Catalog, or more simply, the Library Catalog.

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Can I keep a list of titles I have checked out (Reading History?)

Yes. Log in to your library account and click on “Change Preferences” Check the box for Maintain Permanent Reading List

Click on “Submit” A window will pop-up explaining the impact of keeping a permanent reading list:

Click “OK”, if you want to keep your reading history.

Note: If you want to turn the reading history off, go to "Change Preferences", uncheck the box, and click "Submit". If you turn it off, all history on your record will be permanently deleted.

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Can I turn off the MSNBC news headlines page?

No, the page cannot be turned off. However, you can make another page your favorite, such as “Search” (or any sub-category) or “Patron Account”. Simply access the Catalog search page you want to use, right click on the page, and select “Add to Favorites”.

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Ocean County Library, 101 Washington Street, Toms River, NJ 08753 | Tel. 732-349-6200
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